Buy Original Nintendo Switch Pro Controller Before Switch 2 Release

Nintendo unveiled all the exciting details about the Switch 2 during its April Direct, and since then, we've been eagerly awaiting the start of preorders in the U.S. While the price of the new console wasn't a shock, the cost of first-party Switch 2 games at launch certainly raised some eyebrows. Notably, Mario Kart World is set to launch at a hefty $80. Additionally, Nintendo is rolling out a new line of Switch 2 accessories, which have seen price hikes compared to their original Switch counterparts, and these prices have even increased since the initial announcement.

The only Switch 2 accessory that caught my attention was the new Switch 2 Pro controller, now priced at a staggering $85. As someone who already owns multiple Switch Pro controllers, the thought of buying a new version wasn't appealing. Fortunately, Nintendo confirmed in a developer interview that the original Switch Pro controller will be compatible with the Switch 2.

Where You Can Still Buy Switch Pro Controllers

Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

Not the Switch 2 version.
See it at Walmart
See it at Target
See it at Best Buy

While many gamers might opt for the newer Switch 2 Pro controller, it's not necessary for most games. If you already own a Switch Pro controller, you can stick with it and save $80 for new games. For those without a Pro controller and planning to buy the Switch 2, the standard Switch Pro controller remains a more affordable option at $69.99.

It's worth noting that these older controllers might sell out before the Switch 2 hits the market, making way for the new model. Amazon is already experiencing a significant stock shortage and is only offering third-party alternatives. Alongside compatibility with the regular Switch Pro controller, Nintendo has also confirmed that the original Joy-Con controllers will work with the Switch 2, though we generally recommend the Switch Pro controller over Joy-Con for most games.

When Will the Switch 2 Pro Controller Be Available?

If the new Switch 2 Pro controller is the only accessory you're eager to get, you'll need to wait until the console launches. The new controller will be available starting June 5, coinciding with the Switch 2's release. Preorders for the console and likely the official accessories will begin on April 24. Keep in mind, the Switch 2 Pro controller is exclusively compatible with the Switch 2 and won't work with the standard Switch.

Listings for the Switch 2 Pro controller have already appeared at Walmart and Best Buy, though without a specific preorder date. Walmart also features listings for Switch 2 games that will soon be available for preorder.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller

Preorder listing only
$79.00 at Walmart