Best Nintendo Switch Controllers In 2022

The Good:

• Wide range of designs from popular Nintendo franchises and more
• Supports motion controls and mappable buttons
• Comfortable ergonomic design is extremely similar to Switch Pro Controller

The Bad:

• Build quality feels cheap compared to other brands
• Uses two AA batteries, not rechargeable (unless you use your own rechargeable batteries)
• No support for HD rumble, IR, or Amiibo NFC

The PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller is an honorable mention when it comes to discussing Switch Pro Controller alternatives. Though it can’t stand up to the Pro 2’s build quality and customization, this controller is a nice alternative to PDP’s Faceoff Deluxe+ if you’re looking for a wireless option. PowerA has outdone itself when it comes to the range of designs available for the Enhanced Wireless Controller, with bold and striking designs themed after Nintendo franchises and other popular series, from Mario and Zelda to Cuphead, Spyro, and The Witcher. Priced at $50, you’ll often find nice deals on older designs at Amazon as well.

Build-wise, the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller is simply lacking compared to some other controllers on this list. It feels lighter and cheaper than the Pro Controller, the joysticks are slightly taller, and the D-pad is slightly further in. Overall, the controller looks and feels quite similar to the first-party option with a comfortable, ergonomic design and standard button layout, but it lacks that premium feel. You do get two mappable rear buttons and support for motion controls, but not HD rumble, IR, or Amiibo NFC. Finally, this model runs on AA batteries and can’t be recharged similar to the Pro Controller, though you could use rechargeable AA batteries in it.

Ultimately, we love the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller for its unmatched range of themed designs and its overall similarities to the Pro Controller with a cheaper price tag, though we don’t recommend picking this up to be your main Switch controller. Instead, make this your second or third Switch controller that you pick up for multiplayer sessions or for when your Pro Controller needs to charge.