Both the original Nintendo Switch and the Switch 2 support a wide range of controllers, but with key differences that depend on which console you own.
Picking up the wrong controller for your Nintendo Switch is an expensive mistake — especially now that the Switch 2 is on shelves. The short answer is straightforward: if you own the original Switch (2017–2025), you can use official Joy-Cons, the Pro Controller, and most third-party pads. The Switch 2 adds backward compatibility for older controllers but limits how you connect them, and its new Joy-Con 2 and Switch 2 Pro Controller won’t work on the older console at all.
Controllers That Work on the Original Nintendo Switch
The original Switch supports every officially released controller from its generation. That covers the standard left and right Joy-Cons, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller (model HAC-013), and any third-party controller that explicitly lists Switch compatibility. The new Joy-Con 2 and Switch 2 Pro Controller — designed for the successor console — are not compatible with the original Switch.
All standard Joy-Cons connect wirelessly via Bluetooth or attach physically to the console rails. The Pro Controller works wired through the dock or wirelessly. Up to eight Pro Controllers can be used at the same time. If you’re shopping for a new controller right now, our tested roundup of the best controllers for Nintendo Switch covers the models that work across both consoles.
How Switch 2 Compatibility Changes the Picture
The Nintendo Switch 2, released June 5, 2025, is backward compatible with most original Switch controllers — but with specific trade-offs. Original Joy-Cons work wirelessly only; they cannot be physically slid onto the Switch 2’s rails. The original Pro Controller works wirelessly or wired via the dock and supports HD Rumble (but not the newer HD Rumble 2). Most third-party Switch controllers also carry over without issue. The catch: new Switch 2 accessories — Joy-Con 2 and the Switch 2 Pro Controller — are exclusive to the new console and will not pair with the original Switch.
How to Connect Any Compatible Controller
Connecting a controller takes about ten seconds, and the process is the same on both consoles for wireless pairing. Wired connection: plug the USB cable into the controller, then insert the USB end into the Switch dock or a powered USB hub. The controller pairs and wakes automatically. Wireless connection: from the Home Menu, select Controllers > Change Grip/Order. Press the Sync button on the controller — for Joy-Cons it is on the top edge between the L and R buttons; for the Pro Controller it sits near the USB-C port. Wait for the controller icon to appear on screen and the player LED to stay solid. On Switch 2, Joy-Cons must be paired this way — sliding them on is not supported.
| Controller | Works on Original Switch | Works on Switch 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Official Joy-Con (Left & Right) | Yes (attached or wireless) | Yes (wireless only) |
| Nintendo Switch Pro Controller (HAC-013) | Yes | Yes |
| Joy-Con 2 (Switch 2) | No | Yes |
| Switch 2 Pro Controller | No | Yes |
| Third-party Switch controllers | Yes (if labeled Switch-compatible) | Yes (most models) |
| GameCube controller (via adapter) | Yes (with official adapter) | Confirmed via existing adapters |
One detail worth noting: the original Pro Controller’s battery lasts roughly 40 hours and takes about 6 hours to fully charge via the dock. Joy-Cons run about 20 hours and charge in 3.5 hours — either on the console or using the Charging Grip accessory. All Bluetooth connection methods use standard pairing, so switching between consoles requires re-pairing each time.
Will Your Old Third-Party Controller Still Work?
If a third-party controller worked with the original Switch, it will work with the Switch 2 — that includes wired and wireless pads from manufacturers like PowerA, Hori, and 8BitDo. The only controllers that will not carry over are those built exclusively for the Switch 2’s new form factor, such as the Joy-Con 2 and the new Pro Controller. For the original Switch, any controller that lists Switch compatibility is safe. If you are unsure, check the product packaging for the official Nintendo Switch logo or a clear “compatible with Nintendo Switch” statement.
FAQs
Can I use a PS5 or Xbox controller on Nintendo Switch?
Not directly. The Switch does not natively support PlayStation or Xbox controllers. You would need a third-party Bluetooth adapter (like the Brook Wingman or 8BitDo adapter) to bridge compatibility, and even then, button labels and some features like HD Rumble may not map correctly.
Does the Switch 2 support wired controllers from the original Switch?
Yes. Wired third-party controllers that connected via USB to the original Switch dock will also work when plugged into the Switch 2 dock. The console treats them as standard USB gamepads, so no additional pairing is needed.
How do I know if a controller will work before buying?
Check the product listing for the official “Nintendo Switch” logo or explicit wording like “compatible with Nintendo Switch / Switch 2.” Controllers marked only for “Switch 2” or “Joy-Con 2” will not work on the original console. When in doubt, stick with the Pro Controller or a trusted third-party brand that lists both consoles.
References & Sources
- Nintendo. “Compatibility of Nintendo Switch with Nintendo Switch 2.” Official compatibility list for controllers across both consoles.
- Nintendo. “Joy-Con Technical Specifications.” Details on controller specs, battery life, and button layouts.
- Nintendo. “Nintendo Switch Software, Play Mode, Accessory and Features Compatibility FAQ.” Step-by-step controller pairing instructions and accessory compatibility notes.