Original Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: Where to Buy Before Switch 2 Release

Nintendo unveiled all the exciting details about the Switch 2 during its April Direct, and since then, we've eagerly awaited preorders to open in the U.S. The price of the new console wasn't a huge shock, but the cost of first-party Switch 2 games at launch certainly raised some eyebrows. Notably, Mario Kart World will be priced at $80 upon release. Moreover, Nintendo is rolling out a new line of Switch 2 accessories that have seen similar price hikes compared to the original Switch, with prices having increased even further since the initial announcement.

The one Switch 2 accessory that caught my attention was the new Switch 2 Pro controller, now priced at a hefty $85. As someone who already owns several Switch Pro controllers, I was relieved to learn 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 essential for most games. If you already have a Switch Pro controller, you can stick with it and save $80 for new games. For those without a Pro controller and planning to purchase the Switch 2, the standard Switch Pro controller remains a more affordable option at $69.99.

It's possible that these older controllers might sell out before the Switch 2's arrival, making way for the new model. Amazon is already facing a significant stock shortage and is only offering third-party alternatives. In addition to compatibility with the regular Switch Pro controller, Nintendo has confirmed that the original Joy-Con controllers will also work with the Switch 2 – although we typically recommend the Switch Pro controller over Joy-Con for most games.

When Will the Switch 2 Pro Controller Be Available?

If the only accessory you're keen on getting is the new Switch 2 Pro controller, you'll need to wait until the console's launch. The new controller will be available starting June 5, alongside the Switch 2. Preorders for the console are expected to begin on April 24, likely when you can also 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 are already popping up at Walmart and Best Buy, though without a 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