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. While the console's price was somewhat expected, the reveal of first-party Switch 2 game prices at launch was a bit of a shock. Notably, *Mario Kart World* is set to launch at a hefty $80. Additionally, Nintendo is rolling out a new line of Switch 2 accessories, which have also seen price hikes compared to the original Switch models. These accessories have become even pricier since their initial announcement.
One accessory that caught my attention was the new Switch 2 Pro controller, priced at a staggering $85. As someone who already owns several 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. This means I won't have to shell out for a new version.
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 gamers might 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. For those planning to buy the Switch 2 but don't yet have a Pro controller, the original model 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 new model. Amazon is already experiencing a significant stock shortage and is currently only offering third-party alternatives. Besides the compatibility with the regular Switch Pro controller, Nintendo has confirmed that the original Joy-Con controllers will also work with the Switch 2. However, for most games, we recommend the Switch Pro controller over Joy-Con.
When Will the Switch 2 Pro Controller Be Available?
If your main focus is getting the new Switch 2 Pro controller, you'll need to wait until the console launches. The new controller will be available starting on June 5, coinciding with the Switch 2 launch. You can start preordering the new console on April 24, which is likely when you'll also be able to preorder the official accessories. Note that the Switch 2 Pro controller is exclusively compatible with the Switch 2 and won't work with the original Switch.
Listings for the Switch 2 Pro controller have begun appearing at Walmart and Best Buy, although no preorder dates are shown yet. Walmart also has listings for upcoming Switch 2 game preorders.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller
Preorder listing only
$79.00 at Walmart
