Nintendo unveiled all the exciting details about the Switch 2 during its April Direct, and since then, fans in the U.S. have been eagerly waiting for preorders to open. While the price of the new console wasn't too surprising, the cost of first-party Switch 2 games at launch certainly raised some eyebrows. Notably, Mario Kart World will set you back $80 at launch. In addition to games, Nintendo is also launching a new line of Switch 2 accessories, which have seen price increases similar to those of the original Switch, and have even become pricier since the initial announcement.
The new Switch 2 Pro controller, priced at a hefty $85, was the only accessory that caught my attention. As someone who already owns multiple Switch Pro controllers, I'm relieved to hear from Nintendo's 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 might opt for the newer 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 the $80 difference to spend on new games. For those without a Pro controller 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 to make way for the newer model. Amazon, for instance, is already facing significant stock shortages and is only offering third-party alternatives. Alongside the compatibility of the regular Switch Pro controller, Nintendo has confirmed that the original Joy-Con controllers will also work with the Switch 2, although we generally recommend the Switch Pro controller over Joy-Con for most games.
When Will the Switch 2 Pro Controller Be Available?
If the new Switch 2 Pro controller is the accessory you're most excited about, you'll have to wait until the console launches on June 5. Preorders for the new console, and likely the official accessories, will start on April 24. Keep in mind, the Switch 2 Pro controller will only be compatible with the Switch 2 and not with the standard Switch.
Listings for the Switch 2 Pro controller have already appeared at Walmart and Best Buy, though without a preorder date. Walmart's listings also include upcoming preorder options for Switch 2 games.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller
Preorder listing only
$79.00 at Walmart
