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, fans in the U.S. have eagerly awaited the opening of preorders. The price of the new console didn't come as a shock, but the announcement of the launch prices for first-party Switch 2 games certainly did. The most striking example is *Mario Kart World*, which will set you back $80 upon release. Additionally, Nintendo is rolling out a new range of Switch 2 accessories, which have seen similar price hikes compared to their original Switch counterparts. These prices have even increased since the initial announcement.

The only Switch 2 accessory that caught my eye was the new Switch 2 Pro controller, now priced at a hefty $85. As someone who already owns multiple Switch Pro controllers, the thought of purchasing a new version isn't appealing. Fortunately, Nintendo confirmed in a developer interview that the original Switch Pro controller will indeed 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 new Switch 2 Pro controller, it's not essential for most games. If you already have 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 choice 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 newer model. Amazon is already experiencing a significant stock shortage and is only offering third-party alternatives. Besides the compatibility of 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 Switch 2 Pro controller is the only accessory you're keen on getting, you'll need to wait until the console launches. The new controller will be available on the launch date of the Switch 2, which is set for June 5. You can start preordering the new console from April 24, which is likely when preorders for the official accessories will also open. Keep in mind that the Switch 2 Pro controller will only be compatible with the Switch 2 and not with the standard Switch.

Listings for the Switch 2 Pro controller have already started appearing at Walmart and Best Buy, though no preorder dates are shown yet. Walmart also features listings for Switch 2 games that will be available for preorder soon.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller

$79.00 at Walmart