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, we've been eagerly awaiting the start of preorders in the U.S. The price of the new console didn't come as a shock, but the cost of first-party Switch 2 games at launch certainly raised some eyebrows. Notably, *Mario Kart World* will set you back a hefty $80 at launch. Alongside this, Nintendo is introducing a new range of Switch 2 accessories that have seen price hikes compared to the original Switch. These accessories have even become pricier since their initial 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 with multiple Switch Pro controllers at home, I'm not keen on purchasing a new version. Fortunately, Nintendo confirmed in a developer interview that the original Switch Pro controller will 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 will opt 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 $80 for new games. If you don't have a Pro controller and plan to buy the Switch 2, the standard Switch Pro controller remains a more affordable option at $69.99.

It's worth noting that these older controllers might sell out before the Switch 2's arrival to make way for the new model. Amazon is currently experiencing significant stock shortages and only offers 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 over Joy-Con for most games.

When Will the Switch 2 Pro Controller Be Available?

If the only accessory you're interested in is the new Switch 2 Pro controller, you'll need to wait until the console launches. The new controller will be available alongside the Switch 2 on June 5. You can start preordering the new console and its accessories on April 24. However, note that the Switch 2 Pro controller is only compatible with the Switch 2 and won't work with the standard Switch.

Listings for the Switch 2 Pro controller have already appeared at Walmart and Best Buy, but without a preorder date. Walmart also lists the Switch 2 games that will soon be available for preorder.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller

Preorder listing only

$79.00 at Walmart