Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller Review: Enhanced Ergonomics, Battery Life, and Features

Since the Nintendo Switch 2’s launch in June, the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller has quickly established itself as a premium choice for players seeking both comfort and functionality when gaming in docked mode.

As always, Nintendo’s focus on versatility is evident, but this time the Pro Controller for Switch 2 sets a new standard for ergonomics and feature enhancements compared to its predecessor and the standard Joy-Con controllers. Upon first use, most players will immediately notice the Switch 2 Pro Controller’s sophisticated design.

Every button is strategically placed, ensuring intuitive reach and improved comfort—an area where Joy-Con and Joy-Con 2 sometimes posed challenges due to their compact layout.

The Pro Controller’s upgraded tactile feedback and build quality further complement its ergonomic form, delivering a responsive and satisfying gaming experience, especially during intense sessions of popular titles like Splatoon 3. A notable addition is the controller’s customizable rear buttons, which allow users to remap two buttons for better accessibility.

This can significantly enhance gameplay in titles with complex control schemes, providing more flexibility to suit individual preferences.

For instance, actions such as swimming and shooting in Splatoon 3 can be reassigned for more accessible finger placement.

While players may not utilize this feature in every game, its inclusion elevates the controller’s adaptability. The analog sticks present a marked improvement over the Joy-Con counterparts, offering better precision and responsiveness—though they lack the hall effect technology that prevents stick drift, now common in competing hardware.

Despite this omission, the control sticks maintain a solid performance, and many users report further comfort when using additional thumb grips, such as those from the Savage Raven accessory line. In terms of endurance, the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller impresses with a battery life of approximately 40 hours on a single charge—a considerable advancement over the original Switch Pro Controller.

Charging is also more efficient, reaching full capacity in about three and a half hours, roughly 50% faster than the previous model.

For added convenience, Nintendo has introduced a built-in audio jack, marking the first time a Nintendo controller has featured integrated headphone support. Despite numerous strengths, some drawbacks remain.

The initial retail price of $84.99, now adjusted to $89.99 following import tariffs, positions the device as one of the priciest in its class.

Moreover, while the controller can technically connect to PCs, doing so typically requires third-party software, and repairs are not user-friendly due to its intricate construction.

The updated D-pad is an improvement but still susceptible to accidental inputs if pressed carelessly. Overall, the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller stands out as a significant upgrade in Nintendo’s controller lineup, marrying innovative features with premium build quality.

While its price and lack of hall effect analog sticks may deter some, those prioritizing comfort and functionality for extended docked play sessions will likely find it a worthy investment.

Whether it surpasses beloved controllers from Nintendo’s past, such as the iconic GameCube model, remains a matter of personal preference and ongoing debate within the gaming community.

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