Latest news with #ProController
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller: A Premium Gamepad Worth the $$$
PCMag editors select and review products independently. If you buy through affiliate links, we may earn commissions, which help support our testing. Just as the Nintendo Switch launched with the Switch Pro Controller to use in lieu of its detachable Joy-Con, the Switch 2 launches with the Switch 2 Pro Controller. Like the Switch 2 to the Switch, the $84.99 Switch 2 Pro Controller is a solid upgrade over its predecessor, with a higher price to match (the original Switch Pro is $69.99). It adds new features like programmable rear buttons and a headset jack that help justify the premium, along with several material refinements that give the gamepad a much more high-end feel. So while it's pricey, the Switch 2 Pro should be the first controller you reach for if you frequently use the system in docked mode, and that makes it our Editors' Choice award winner. If the name doesn't make it clear, the Switch 2 Pro Controller is intended to work with the Switch 2. It will not officially work with any other device, including the original Switch or a PC. However, enthusiasts will likely create some form of workaround to let it function as a PC gamepad. Official Steam support might come down the line, just like with the first Pro Controller. The Switch 2 Pro Controller looks similar to the original, with long grips and gentle curves that fit comfortably in your hand. Its shell is a satiny plastic that's smoother than the subtly textured grip of the original and pleasant to touch. The gamepad isn't completely black like the previous Pro Controller, though; it has light gray accents around the analog sticks, top panel, and shoulder buttons. The package looks and feels a bit more polished than the slightly glossy and partially translucent Switch Pro Controller. The main control layout is almost completely unchanged, with offset analog sticks, large A/B/X/Y face buttons, a plus-shaped direction pad, and two pairs of bumper/trigger buttons. Although they're arranged the same, some components have been refined. The analog sticks are silky smooth in motion and are almost silent when pushed to their limit (instead of tapping loudly against the gamepad's casing). The face buttons and direction pad are also quieter, without losing any of their springiness. The plus and minus buttons are slightly raised, making them easier to press. Subtle refinements are only the start of the upgrades. The Switch 2 Pro also has three important features that the original lacked. First, it joins the Joy-Con 2 controllers in GameChat functionality via a small, square C button located between the direction pad and right analog stick. Like on the Joy-Con 2 pads, this button launches the GameChat menu and lets you start or join voice and video groups. Second, the gamepad has a 3.5mm headset jack just like the DualSense and Xbox Wireless Controller. So, if you have a wired gaming headset, simply plug it into the controller and use it instead of the Switch 2's microphone and your TV's speakers. The jack is located on the gamepad's bottom edge between the grips, where the status LEDs were on the original Pro Controller (those lights are relocated to the top panel next to the USB-C port and pairing button). Third, the Switch 2 Pro Controller follows in the footsteps of other high-end gamepads like the DualSense Edge and the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller by adding programmable rear buttons. These GL and GR buttons sit flush on the back of the grips, right where your middle fingers naturally rest. You can set them to act like any single digital control input, such as the face buttons, shoulder buttons, direction pad presses, and analog stick clicks. You access the GL and GR button-mapping menu by holding the Home button for a second. This lets you change what the buttons do with only a few presses. These settings are saved on a per-game basis, which is convenient. For example, you can have GL and GR act as LB and LR in Street Fighter 6 (Drive Impact and Drive Parry) or as LT and RT in Mario Kart World (Items and Drifting). Quick menu GL and GR settings are separate from the full-button remapping available in the Switch 2's Accessibility menu. You can completely rearrange the Pro Controller's controls on a system level and save presets. These customizations are the same across all games and must be manually switched. Besides the physical controls, the Switch 2 Pro Controller has the same extra functions as the first one, including motion controls and an NFC sensor for reading Amiibo. It also has vibration, specifically the same HD Rumble 2 as the Joy-Con 2 controllers, which gives detailed feedback in games that support it. Nintendo estimates the Switch 2 Pro Controller's battery to last about 40 hours between charges, which seems in line with my tests. According to the console, two dozen hours of gaming took the gamepad a bit below the 50% mark. That's comparable with the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller and far longer than the DualSense Edge's meager six-hour battery life. I played several games with the Switch 2 Pro Controller, and they worked perfectly. Precision platforming in Hollow Knight felt natural, and I could reliably perform moves and counters in Street Fighter 6. The analog sticks made for effortless steering in Mario Kart World, and the motion controls were accurate while aiming in Splatoon 3. The Switch 2 Pro Controller simply feels better as a full gamepad than the Joy-Con 2 in the system's included gamepad grip. It's more comfortable to hold, and its components are better suited to the control style since they aren't designed around Joy-Con 2's modular, portable aspects. Likewise, the directional inputs are better than the Joy-Con 2's; I've already gushed about the tactile response of the analog sticks, but the plus-shaped directional pad is a superior way to input digital directions than the left Joy-Con's four face buttons. The headphone jack worked as expected, too, piping sound through my wired headphones with no problem. That's probably the least important part of the Pro Controller, since the Switch 2 already supports Bluetooth headphones.
The Verge
5 days ago
- The Verge
The Switch 2 is here: everything you need to know about Nintendo's new console
GuliKit says it's figured out how to make its controllers wake the Switch 2. The only gamepad that can wake the new console is Nintendo's own upgraded Pro controller — even the original Switch's Pro controller can't. But that could soon change as GuliKit, which previously noted that the Switch 2 'uses a new system protocol,' now says it's figured out how to get its third-party controllers to wake the handheld. It demonstrated the functionality in a video shared to X, but hasn't announced a follow-up software update adding this feature.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
I just spent a week with the Nintendo Switch 2 — here's the 3 essential accessories to upgrade your console
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. It's been just over a week since the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, and I'm loving my time with the new console so far. As I wrote in my review, it's pretty much the hybrid device of my dreams — and definitely one of the best handheld consoles — and I've already had some brilliant early play experiences on the Switch 2. However, while the Nintendo Switch 2 is extremely impressive out of the box, like most consoles, it can be further enhanced with a few useful accessories. The range of compatible Switch 2 accessories at present is a little small, but will naturally grow over time. However, there's already a handful of compatible extras that I think are worthy of being considered almost essential. So, if you're a fellow Switch 2 early adopter, then these are the three accessories I've tested so far that upgraded my play experience. This trio has already become a key part of my Nintendo Switch 2 gaming setup. I was late to the Pro controller party with the original Switch, only picking up one at the launch of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom in 2023. But for Switch 2, I've had my hands on a Pro controller from day one, and it might be one of the best pads I've ever used. The Switch 2 Pro controller blows the Joy-Cons 2 housed within the included grip attachment out of the water. Not only does it feel amazing in your hands, with delightfully clicky buttons, triggers and sticks to boot, but it also offers a key upgrade: back buttons. These customizable buttons are a serious boon, and I've already found them highly useful, particularly in Mario Kart World. The Switch 2 Pro controller is a little pricey at $84, but if you're going to be using your new console for any significant length in TV mode, then it's a worthwhile investment as it really does elevate the play experience. Plus, its battery life is fantastic. After a week, I have yet to charge mine, which is quite a pleasant change from the PS5's DualSense, which usually starts flashing 'low battery' after just a couple of play sessions, if not sooner. The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is practically guaranteed to be the most in-demand Switch 2 accessory, and it packs a suitable upgrade over its predecessor adding a headphone jack, the new "C" button, and customizable back buttons. Additional retailers: Best Buy | GameStopView Deal I've made no secret of my love for the Nintendo Switch 2 at this early stage of the console's lifecycle. However, if I have one criticism (well, I have two — battery life isn't great), it's that the console lacks the in-built ergonomic grips found on the likes of the Steam Deck OLED. In handheld mode, it's not the most comfortable device to hold for long periods of time, but this (relatively) minor issue can be pretty easily fixed via a third-party case. There's already a whole bunch of options, but the one I've been using is dbrand's Killswith case. And I'm impressed with the results. Not only does the Killswitch give the console some extra heft to hold onto, but it also comes in three separate parts (two Joy-Con 2 grips and a casing for the main console unit). This retains the ability to detach the Joy-Con 2s and make use of the Switch 2's tabletop mode. The downside of the Killswitch case is that once snugly fitted around the console, the Switch 2 no longer fits into the standard dock, but dbrand has resolved this problem by including a Dock Adapter with every order. It's not the most elegant solution, but it's effective and takes mere seconds to install. The Nintendo Switch 2 Killswitch from dbrand both protects your console and elevates your gaming experience by making the hybrid even more comfortable to hold in handheld mode. It comes in three bundles starting from $59, but those looking to take their Switch 2 on the road will want to consider the Travel bundle for $79. View Deal The Switch 2 packs a respectable 256GB of storage space as standard. That might not seem like it would go far in today's world of 100GB install sizes, but Switch 2 games typically have a smaller file footprint than PS5 or Xbox games. Even the most storage-hungry software like Cyberpunk 2077 demands only 60GB of space, but that's still a fair chunk of your available storage. Even if 256GB base storage stretched further than you might think, I maxed out my Switch 2's hard drive on day one after installing eight launch games, so an increase was needed. I opted for the officially licensed $59 Samsung Express microSD card. It even has a cute little Mario logo etched on. Users looking for a cheaper alternative might want to consider the 256GB Express microSD from Onn, for $35 at Walmart. One of my colleagues just picked it up for their Nintendo Switch 2 and reports that it works just as well. The Switch 2 comes with an increased storage capacity of up to 2TB. However, the Switch 2 is only compatible with microSD Express cards, which means you'll need new storage cards for your console. Additional retailers: Best Buy | GameStopView Deal Nintendo Switch 2 review These 5 Switch 2 features really stand out I can't play on Switch 2 without the Pro controller
Metro
13-06-2025
- Business
- Metro
Where to buy the Nintendo Switch 2 in the UK right now
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more The Nintendo Switch 2 has had a record-breaking launch with millions sold already, but some retailers still have stock available. It's been just over a week since the Switch 2 launched around the world, and the console is already an unprecedented success. The Switch 2 is the fastest-selling console in history, with over 3.5 million units sold in its first four days, according to Nintendo. In comparison, the original Switch managed 2.7 million within its first month in 2017. While some of this success can be attributed to Mario Kart World, these sales numbers are largely down to the amount of stock Nintendo had ready for launch. The console has never been unavailable for long and some UK retailers have already replenished their supply. At time of writing, Argos has the Switch 2 console and the Mario Kart World bundle in stock, priced at £395.99 and £429.99, respectively. You can also click and collect from stores if you want to pick up the console on the same day, depending on your area. While most other retailers are sold out at the moment, there is a Switch 2 bundle available to pre-order on Very too, which will be available for delivery from Friday, June 20. This bundle includes the Switch 2 base console, Pro Controller, and 256GB SanDisk MicroSD card for £520. Sign up to the GameCentral newsletter for a unique take on the week in gaming, alongside the latest reviews and more. Delivered to your inbox every Saturday morning. When bought separately, the Pro Controller and MicroSD card cost £74.99 and £49.99 respectively, so you're only saving £1 with this bundle. It's worth pointing out too that you can use your original Switch Pro Controller on the Switch 2, but if you don't have one already and you're craving the new console, it's an option at least. Argos: Nintendo Switch 2 base console – £395.99 Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart World bundle – £429.99 It's likely these will sell out fast, but we will update this piece if any other bundles appear elsewhere. While most of the Switch 2 accessories tend to stay in stock longer than the console itself the new Pro Controller has become difficult to find, although both Argos and Currys currently have it in stock. Although the Switch 1 Pro Controller will work on the Switch 2, the new version is more comfortable to use and has two additional programmable buttons at the back, as well as a headphone jack. More Trending Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Wireless Controller at Argos – £74.99 Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Wireless Controller at Currys – £74.99 While Mario Kart World is the main attraction, the Switch 2's launch line-up also includes Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, Split Fiction, Yakuza 0 Director's Cut, Fast Fusion, and various upgrades to original Switch games. As for upcoming titles, Donkey Kong Bananza launches next month, while Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, Kirby Air Riders, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A are all set to come out later this year. Email gamecentral@ leave a comment below, follow us on Twitter. To submit Inbox letters and Reader's Features more easily, without the need to send an email, just use our Submit Stuff page here. For more stories like this, check our Gaming page. MORE: Games Inbox: Is Nintendo the best video game company ever? MORE: The Witcher 3 rumour says new DLC is on the way but it's not a full expansion MORE: Silent Hill 1 remake is official – new Castlevania still happening claims source
Gizmodo
10-06-2025
- Gizmodo
Can't Connect Controllers to Your Switch 2? Here's Why
There's a good reason your original Switch Pro controller won't wake the Switch 2. The Switch 2's Joy-Con 2 is full of extra functionality, from upgraded gyros to the slick mouse mode, but sometimes you just need a more traditional gamepad to play your games. The bigger issue users are experiencing this go-around is connecting all their old devices to the Nintendo's new handheld. Players quickly learned last week their original Pro controllers won't wake the console, and that may be due to Nintendo changing up the connection protocols, leaving third-party devices to fall behind the Switch maker's first-party controller options. While a Switch 2 Pro controller costs $85, third-party devices are often much more affordable. Gizmodo received a bounty of controllers from multiple manufacturers for review, including several devices from 8BitDo and Gulikit specifically to test them on the Switch 2. Since the Switch 2 launch last Thursday, we've found the majority of our devices take extra time and effort to pair with the new console. Connecting them to an original Switch is far more seamless. 8BitDo's controllers in particular simply refuse to communicate with the Switch 2. On Friday, the company released new firmware for its Ultimate and Ultimate 2 controllers alongside the Pro 2 and SN30 controllers, as well as the company's USB Wireless Adapters. If you want to keep using 8BitDo's top-end gamepads, you'll need to download the company's Ultimate or Update Tool software to your Mac or PC and then put the controller into upgrade mode by hitting R1+L1+Start at the same time. Gulikit—the makers of Hall effect joystick replacements and third-party controllers—also released similar firmware patches last week. In an email to Gizmodo, Gulikit reps said that in their tests, the Switch 2 now uses a different communication protocol than the original Switch. This means the console wouldn't be able to pair the same way it had with previous controllers used for the original Switch. We reached out to Nintendo for comment, but we did not immediately hear back. While trying to troubleshoot our connection issues, we found going into System Settings, then to Controllers & Settings and flipping on 'Nintendo Switch Pro Controller Wired Communication' helps connect some wired controllers, though we still can't confirm if that setting also helps you connect with Bluetooth devices. There are still issues connecting some third-party controllers. I still can't pair an 8BitDo Micro controller with the Switch 2, though the company told us that more compatibility updates will be coming in the near future. The Switch 2 Joy-Con 2 and the rest of Nintendo's accessories, down to the revised GameCube controller, all have a 'C' button to connect with GameChat, which may have necessitated a different communication protocol. However, the lack of clarification isn't helping regular users transition to Nintendo's new handheld. Third-party controllers are often cheaper, but a good number of them also sport joysticks that may be more appealing than what comes with Switch 2. The $95 Joy-Con 2s don't include Hall effect sticks, which would help them better avoid the stick drift issues of the original Switch. In its teardown of the Switch 2, iFixit wrote that the new Joy-Con 2 joysticks are still liable to drift issues, though that may depend on how well the border around the sticks can keep out dirt and debris. The repair gurus further suspected the lack of Hall effect may be due to the controller's magnetic attachment points, which would potentially disrupt the Hall effect method to track stick orientation—which relies on magnetic fields. Nintendo has not made a peep about its decision to keep with what is essentially the same control mechanism as the original Switch. Nintendo will replace drifting Joy-Con 2 controllers for free — Nintendeal (@Nintendeal) June 6, 2025 At the very least, if you buy a Switch 2 Joy-Con 2, you can expect Nintendo won't completely leave you hanging. Last week, Nintendeal spotted that Nintendo will offer free replacements for U.S. customers experiencing Joy-Con 2 stick drift or a few other issues. If you're going to spend close to $100 on a pair of controllers, at the very least you should hope you'll be able to use them long into the Switch 2's life cycle.
