The Switch Pro Controller will not work on Switch 2

Nintendo has confirmed that the original Switch Pro Controller will not be compatible with Switch 2. The new console uses a different wireless connection standard, and the Pro Controller from the first Switch cannot pair with it. If you own a Switch Pro Controller now, you will need to buy a new controller designed for Switch 2 to use it with the new system.

This is a significant change from how Nintendo handled backwards compatibility with other accessories. The Switch Pro Controller worked across the original Switch, Switch OLED, and Switch Lite (though the Lite required a USB adapter). Switch 2 breaks that pattern entirely.

Key Takeaways

  • The original Switch Pro Controller cannot pair with Switch 2 due to a different wireless protocol.
  • Nintendo will sell new controllers designed specifically for Switch 2, though pricing and exact models have not been announced.
  • Your existing Switch Pro Controller will continue to work on your original Switch, Switch OLED, or Switch Lite.
  • If you plan to use both consoles, you may end up buying controllers for each system separately.

Why the Switch Pro Controller does not work on Switch 2

The Switch Pro Controller uses Bluetooth technology, but the specific wireless protocol and pairing method changed for Switch 2. Nintendo redesigned the controller connection to support new features and improve performance on the new hardware. This means the old controller's firmware cannot communicate with Switch 2's receiver.

This is not a software limitation that could be patched later. The hardware difference is permanent. Even if Nintendo released a firmware update for the original Pro Controller, it would not gain the ability to work with Switch 2.

What controllers will work with Switch 2

Nintendo has announced that Switch 2 will have its own new controllers, though full details about models, features, and pricing are still coming. The company typically releases a standard controller and a Pro-style option at launch. Based on past patterns, expect a basic wireless controller to come with the console and a premium Pro-style controller to be sold separately.

Third-party manufacturers will likely release their own Switch 2 controllers as well, similar to how companies like 8BitDo and PowerA made controllers for the original Switch. These may offer different features, button layouts, or price points than Nintendo's official options.

What to do with your existing Switch Pro Controller

Your current Switch Pro Controller remains fully functional on the original Switch, Switch OLED, and Switch Lite. If you plan to keep playing those systems, there is no reason to replace it. The controller will not become obsolete for the hardware it was designed for.

If you are trading in your original Switch toward a Switch 2 purchase, you could sell the Pro Controller separately to offset the cost of new controllers. Used Switch Pro Controllers have a resale market, though prices vary based on condition and demand in your area.

The cost of switching to Switch 2 controllers

Nintendo has not announced pricing for Switch 2 controllers yet. The original Switch Pro Controller launched at $70, so expect new controllers to be in a similar range. If you need multiple controllers for multiplayer gaming, the cost adds up quickly — two controllers could easily exceed $130 before tax.

This is worth factoring into your Switch 2 budget if you play with others regularly. You may want to wait for launch pricing and reviews before deciding whether to buy official Nintendo controllers or explore third-party options.

Backwards compatibility with other Switch accessories

The Pro Controller incompatibility does not mean all Switch accessories are locked out. Nintendo has indicated that some accessories may work across both systems, though details are limited. Docking stations, cases, and screen protectors designed for the original Switch may or may not fit Switch 2 depending on the new console's physical design.

Joy-Con controllers from the original Switch will not work on Switch 2 either, for the same wireless protocol reasons as the Pro Controller. If you have a collection of Joy-Con in different colors, they will stay with your original Switch.

Planning your controller setup for both systems

If you plan to own both a Switch and Switch 2, you will need separate controller sets for each. This means buying new controllers for Switch 2 while keeping your existing ones for the original system. Budget accordingly if you want to maintain multiplayer capability on both consoles.

Some players may choose to retire their original Switch once Switch 2 launches, which would eliminate the need for multiple controller sets. Others will keep both systems active for exclusive games or backwards compatibility. Your choice depends on which games you want to keep playing and how many people play with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Switch Pro Controller on Switch 2 with an adapter?

No. The wireless protocol difference is a hardware limitation, not a software one. An adapter cannot bridge the gap between the old and new connection standard. Nintendo would have to redesign the Pro Controller's internal wireless module, which would essentially be building a new controller.

Will third-party controllers from the original Switch work on Switch 2?

No. Third-party controllers like those from 8BitDo or PowerA were designed for the original Switch's wireless standard. They will face the same compatibility issue as the official Pro Controller. Third-party makers will release new controllers designed for Switch 2 after launch.

What if I only buy one Switch 2 controller — can I use my old Pro Controller for the second player?

No. The old Pro Controller cannot pair with Switch 2 at all, so it cannot be used as a second controller even if you have another controller already connected. You will need two Switch 2-compatible controllers for multiplayer gaming.

Should I sell my Switch Pro Controller before Switch 2 launches?

That depends on whether you plan to keep your original Switch. If you will still play the first Switch regularly, keep the controller. If you are trading in or selling your original Switch, selling the Pro Controller separately may recover some of your investment in new Switch 2 controllers.

Will Switch 2 controllers work on the original Switch?

Nintendo has not confirmed this. Historically, newer controllers do not work on older systems. Expect Switch 2 controllers to be exclusive to Switch 2, just as the Pro Controller was exclusive to the Switch family when it launched.