Buy Original Nintendo Switch Pro Controller Before Switch 2 Launch

Nintendo unveiled all the exciting details about the Switch 2 during its April Direct, and fans have been eagerly awaiting preorders to open in the U.S. While the price of the new console was somewhat expected, the launch cost of first-party Switch 2 games came as a surprise. Notably, Mario Kart World is set to be priced at a hefty $80. Alongside the console, Nintendo is also launching a new line of Switch 2 accessories, which have seen price increases since the original 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 idea 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, offering some relief.

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 may opt for the new 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.

There's a chance 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, offering only third-party alternatives. In addition to the compatibility of the regular Switch Pro controller, Nintendo has confirmed that the original Joy-Con controllers will also work with the Switch 2, though we generally recommend the Switch Pro controller for most games.

When Will the Switch 2 Pro Controller Be Available?

If the Switch 2 Pro controller is the only accessory you're interested in, you'll need to wait until the console launches. The new controller will be available starting June 5, coinciding with the Switch 2 launch. Preorders for the console and likely the accessories will begin on April 24. Note that the Switch 2 Pro controller is exclusively compatible with the Switch 2 and cannot be used with the original 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 upcoming Switch 2 game preorders.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller

Preorder listing only

$79.00 at Walmart