Your current Switch controllers will not work with Switch 2
Nintendo confirmed that Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers made for the original Switch are not compatible with Switch 2. The new console uses a different wireless connection standard, so older controllers cannot pair with it. You will need to buy new controllers designed specifically for Switch 2, even if your current ones work perfectly.
This is a significant change from how Nintendo handled past console transitions. When the Switch launched in 2017, it worked with controllers from the Wii U in some cases, but Switch 2 breaks that pattern entirely. The hardware difference is not just cosmetic — it is a fundamental shift in how the console communicates with its controllers.
Key Takeaways
- Original Switch Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers will not connect to Switch 2 due to incompatible wireless technology.
- Nintendo will sell new Joy-Cons and a Pro Controller designed for Switch 2, though the exact launch prices have not been announced.
- Some Switch 2 bundles may include controllers, so check what comes in the box before buying extras.
- Your old controllers still work with the original Switch, so you do not need to throw them away.
What controllers you can use with Switch 2
Nintendo is releasing new Joy-Cons and a new Pro Controller built for Switch 2. These will be the only official controllers that work with the console. The new Joy-Cons will attach to the sides of the console the same way the original ones do, and the new Pro Controller will be a separate wireless gamepad.
Nintendo has not yet announced the exact price for these new controllers. Based on current pricing, new Joy-Cons typically cost around $80 for a pair, and a Pro Controller typically costs around $70, but Switch 2 pricing may differ. You will know the exact cost when Nintendo makes the official announcement closer to the console's release.
Some Switch 2 bundles will include controllers in the box. If you are buying the console as a bundle rather than standalone, you may already have what you need to play. Check the bundle description before ordering to see what is included.
Why Nintendo changed the controller connection
Switch 2 uses a new wireless protocol that is not backward compatible with the original Switch's connection method. This change allows the new console to have faster response times and more stable connections during gameplay. The trade-off is that older controllers straightforward cannot communicate with the new hardware.
Nintendo made a similar choice when moving from the Wii to the Wii U — some accessories worked across both consoles, but not all. With Switch 2, the company decided a clean break was worth the benefit of improved wireless performance. This is a common pattern in gaming: each new generation of console often requires new controllers to take advantage of hardware improvements.
What to do with your old Switch controllers
Your original Joy-Cons and Pro Controller will continue to work with the original Nintendo Switch. If you own both consoles, you can keep using your current controllers on the older system. This means you do not need to discard them or store them away — they remain functional for the hardware they were designed for.
If you are selling or giving away your original Switch, the controllers go with it as part of the package. Buyers will expect the console to come with at least one set of Joy-Cons. If you are keeping your Switch, your controllers stay useful for playing your existing game library on that console.
When you will need to buy new controllers
You only need to buy new Switch 2 controllers if you plan to own and play Switch 2. If you are sticking with the original Switch, your current controllers are fine. If you are upgrading to Switch 2 but your bundle does not include controllers, you will need to purchase them separately before you can play.
Nintendo typically releases additional controller colors and styles after a console launches. You may want to wait a few months to see what options become available, or you may prefer to buy the standard versions right away. Either way, you cannot use your old controllers on the new console, so budget for new ones if you are making the switch.
Third-party controllers and Switch 2
Third-party controller makers (companies other than Nintendo) will likely release controllers for Switch 2, just as they did for the original Switch. These may offer different features, designs, or price points than Nintendo's official controllers. However, third-party options will not be available at launch — they typically come out several months after a console releases.
If you want to play Switch 2 on day one, you will need an official Nintendo controller. Third-party alternatives can come later if you want options. Be cautious with third-party controllers: some work well, but others have reliability issues or missing features. Read reviews from other players before buying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Switch Pro Controller on Switch 2?
No. The original Pro Controller uses the same wireless connection as the Joy-Cons and will not work with Switch 2. You will need to buy the new Pro Controller designed for Switch 2.
Will Switch 2 controllers work with the original Switch?
No, the connection works only one direction. New Switch 2 controllers are designed specifically for the new console and cannot pair with the original Switch hardware.
Do I have to buy controllers separately, or do they come with the console?
It depends on which bundle you buy. Some Switch 2 bundles include controllers in the box, while others may not. Check the product description before ordering to see what is included with your specific purchase.
What if I want multiple controllers for multiplayer?
You will need to buy additional Joy-Con pairs or Pro Controllers designed for Switch 2. The number you need depends on how many people will play at once. Two Joy-Cons can be used as one controller per person, or you can use multiple Pro Controllers.
Are there any adapters that let old controllers work with Switch 2?
Nintendo has not released any adapters for this purpose, and none are expected. The wireless incompatibility is a hardware-level difference that cannot be bridged with an adapter. You will need controllers made for Switch 2.