Buy Original Nintendo Switch Pro Controller Before Switch 2 Release

Nintendo unveiled exciting details about the Switch 2 during its April Direct, leaving fans eager for preorders to open in the U.S. While the console's price was somewhat expected, the announcement of first-party Switch 2 games' launch prices raised eyebrows. Notably, the much-anticipated *Mario Kart World* will be priced at a hefty $80 at launch. Alongside the new console, Nintendo is also rolling out a fresh line of Switch 2 accessories, which have seen price increases compared to their original Switch counterparts, with costs climbing even higher since the initial reveal.

One accessory that caught my attention was the new Switch 2 Pro controller, now retailing at $85. As someone with multiple original Switch Pro controllers at home, the thought of investing in yet another version was daunting. Fortunately, Nintendo confirmed in a developer interview that the original Switch Pro controller will indeed 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, Target, and Best Buy. While many might opt for the new 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 without a Pro controller and 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, making way for the new model. Amazon is already facing stock shortages and is only offering 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 for most games due to its superior ergonomics and performance.

When Will the Switch 2 Pro Controller Be Available?

If the Switch 2 Pro controller is the only accessory you're keen on, you'll need to wait until the console's launch on June 5. Preorders for the new console, and likely the official accessories, will begin on April 24. Keep in mind, 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 are already popping up at Walmart and Best Buy, though without a specific preorder date. Walmart also features listings for upcoming Switch 2 games that you'll soon be able to preorder.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller

Preorder listing only. $79.00 at Walmart.