Buy Original Nintendo Switch Pro Controller Before Switch 2 Release

Nintendo unveiled all the exciting details about the Switch 2 during its April Direct, and since then, we've been eagerly awaiting the opening of preorders in the U.S. While the console's price was somewhat expected, the cost of first-party Switch 2 games at launch raised some eyebrows. Notably, Mario Kart World will retail for a hefty $80 at launch. In addition to the games, Nintendo is also introducing a new line of Switch 2 accessories, which come with price increases compared to the original Switch accessories. These prices have even risen since the initial announcement.

The only Switch 2 accessory that caught my attention was the new Switch 2 Pro controller, now priced at a steep $85. Having multiple original Switch Pro controllers at home, I was relieved to learn from Nintendo's developer interview that these will be compatible with the Switch 2. This means I won't need to purchase the 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 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 around $80 for new games. For those without a Pro controller who plan to purchase the Switch 2, the standard Switch Pro controller remains a more affordable option at $69.99.

There's a chance that these older controllers could sell out before the Switch 2 hits the market to make way for the new model. Amazon is currently experiencing a significant stock shortage and only offers 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 Pro controller over Joy-Con for most games.

When Will the Switch 2 Pro Controller Be Available?

If the Switch 2 Pro controller is the only accessory you're interested in, you'll need to wait until the console's launch. The new controller will be available when the Switch 2 launches on June 5. You can start preordering the new console, and likely the official accessories, from April 24. Keep in mind that the Switch 2 Pro controller is only compatible with the Switch 2 and won't work with the original Switch.

Listings for the Switch 2 Pro controller have already started appearing at Walmart and Best Buy, although without a specific preorder date. Walmart also has listings for Switch 2 games that will soon be available for preorder.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller

Preorder listing only
$79.00 at Walmart