The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller and Joy-Cons both serve very different purposes, so what would be best for one gamer might not be what’s best for you. Here we will go over all the differences between both controllers, so you can make an informed decision on what controller would best suit your needs.
Meet the Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons
The Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons are easily some of the most innovative controllers on the market. They feature a dual-purpose design which makes them perfect for both handheld and docked modes.
The Joy-Cons slide onto each side of the Nintendo Switch, turning it into a handheld console that you can play on the go. But when at home, they can be slid off the system and into a grip to be used wirelessly with your Switch. This way, you can play your favorite games on the big screen from the comfort of your couch.
The Joy-Cons have even more tricks up their sleeves than this, though. If you are playing games with friends, the Joy-Cons can be separated, turned on their side, and used as individual controllers. They essentially have the potential to become three controllers for the price of one.
The Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons are also compatible with most systems, even Steam. Check out our guide if you would like to learn how to connect your Joy-Cons to Steam.
The Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons come in a variety of different colors and designs, such as gray, blue and red, or even orange and purple. There are also special variants, such as the Splatoon 3 and Zelda editions, that are released in conjunction with specific consoles and Switch games.
Meet the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is a more traditional-style controller for more avid gamers. While it can’t be connected directly to your Switch or split into two individual controllers, it does feature a much more ergonomic design and a bigger button layout that is more suitable for competitive gaming.
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller shines brightest when it’s used while the Switch is in docked mode. Using the Pro Controller while playing the Nintendo Switch docked feels most similar to using a competing home console such as the PlayStation or Xbox.
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller also has different designs and variants to choose from, such as the Monster Hunter edition. These are not as plentiful as the Joy-Con varieties, however, and they tend to sell out quickly. So the best place to pick one of these special editions up is at launch as they can become pricey when purchasing them secondhand.
What Are the Differences?
There are many differences between the Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons and the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. We have listed the main differences in the table below:
While the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller doesn’t come with the Switch, it is still a Nintendo product and therefore still features all of the same functions as the Joy-Cons – except for the part where it splits in two.
This means you can still use motion controls and all of your favorite Amiibo with the Pro Controller. The ability to hand one half to a friend is the main difference between the two options.
Which Nintendo Switch Controller Is Better?
The Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons and Pro Controller both provide you with very different gaming experiences. Therefore, deciding which one is better for you completely depends on how you use your Nintendo Switch.
Do You Mostly Play Alone or With a Friend?
If you mostly play multiplayer games and your aim is to collect up to four controllers to share with your friends, then the Joy-Cons would be the best pick for you. This way, you only have to purchase two sets to have up to four controllers to share. The Joy-Cons would also be the best choice for gaming with kids, as the bigger size of the Pro Controller may not fit as well in smaller hands.
If you mostly game on your own, then the Pro Controller is definitely the best choice. The Joy-Cons are great, but their small size, button layout, and ergonomics aren’t best for gaming for long periods. The Pro Controller unarguably provides superior comfort and precision when gaming. So if you aren’t actively searching for the ability to split the Joy-Cons in two, and you don’t play handheld, then the Pro Controller is a clear winner.
Price
If price is a factor for you, it might be better to opt for the Joy-Cons. Since the Joy-Cons come packaged with the Nintendo Switch already, you don’t have to purchase another gamepad separately like you do if you want to add the Pro Controller to your collection.
If you are looking to add another controller altogether, however, the Pro Controller is cheaper than a new set of Joy-Cons by around $10. The Pro Controller is also more durable than the Joy-Cons, so you could go longer before having to purchase a new one.
The Dreaded Drift
The Joy-Cons, while great, do experience their fair share of issues. These controllers seem to be more susceptible to drift than any other controller on the market. Controller drift occurs when the controller senses false movement input in the joystick, causing it to move in ways you haven’t directed it.
While the Pro Controller is not immune to drift, it doesn’t seem to be affected by the condition nearly as much as the Joy-Cons. So in this sense, the Pro Controller is a more reliable option. Nintendo does fix or replace your Joy-Cons in the case of drift. And although that is reassuring, it is still a huge inconvenience having to send your controllers away for up to a month or more, possibly rendering your Switch entirely useless during that time.
If you are experiencing Joy-Con drift, there are several things you can do yourself to try and fix it before sending them away. Check out our guide to learn about ways to fix Joy-Con drift on your Nintendo Switch.
Which Nintendo Switch Controller Should You Buy?
There are many ‘pros’ and ‘cons’ to both controllers. But when it really comes down to it, a balance between both is the perfect way to experience the Nintendo Switch.
A Nintendo Switch is incomplete without a pair of Joy-Cons to accompany it, and they are without a doubt the best controllers for multiplayer gaming. On the other hand, playing your Switch on the big screen from the comfort of your couch is a far better experience with the more comfortable and durable Pro Controller.
We recommend you purchase a Pro Controller for your own personal use, while making sure to keep some Joy-Cons on hand for whenever you want to play handheld or multiplayer.
The Nintendo Switch Lets You Have the Best of Both Worlds
The Nintendo Switch allows you to experience the benefits of gaming on a handheld and home console, and the Joy-Cons and Pro Controller make that transition seamless. While having both isn’t necessary to enjoy your Switch, it certainly helps get the most out of this hybrid console.
