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 fans have been eagerly awaiting the start of preorders in the U.S. While the console's price was somewhat expected, the announcement of the launch prices for first-party Switch 2 games certainly raised eyebrows. Notably, *Mario Kart World* is set to cost a hefty $80 at launch. In addition to the games, Nintendo is also launching a new range of Switch 2 accessories, which have seen significant price hikes compared to their original Switch counterparts—and these prices have only increased since the initial announcement.

The one accessory that caught my attention was the new Switch 2 Pro controller, now priced at an eye-watering $85. As someone who already owns multiple Switch Pro controllers, the thought of having to buy a new version wasn't appealing. Thankfully, Nintendo confirmed in a developer interview that the original Switch Pro controller will be fully 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 be tempted to go for the newer Switch 2 Pro controller, it's not essential for most games. If you already own a Switch Pro controller, you can stick with it and save the $80 for new games. For those who don't have a Pro controller and are planning to purchase the Switch 2, the standard Switch Pro controller remains a more affordable option at $69.99.

There's a chance that these older controllers might sell out before the Switch 2 hits the market to make way for the new model. Amazon is already facing significant stock shortages and is only offering third-party alternatives. Alongside the compatibility of the regular Switch Pro controller, Nintendo has also confirmed that the original Joy-Con controllers will work with the Switch 2—although we generally recommend the Switch Pro controller over Joy-Con for most games.

When Will the Switch 2 Pro Controller Be Available?

If the only accessory you're eager to get is the new Switch 2 Pro controller, you'll have to wait until the console's launch. The new controller will be officially available alongside the Switch 2 on June 5. You'll be able to preorder the new console starting April 24, which is likely when the official accessories, including the Switch 2 Pro controller, will also be available for preorder. Note that the Switch 2 Pro controller will only be compatible with the Switch 2, so it won't work with the original Switch.

Listings for the Switch 2 Pro controller have already begun to appear at Walmart and Best Buy, though no preorder date is currently shown. Walmart also has listings for the Switch 2 games you'll soon be able to preorder.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller

Preorder listing only | $79.00 at Walmart