Nintendo unveiled all the exciting details about the Switch 2 during its April Direct, and since then, fans in the U.S. have been eagerly awaiting the start of preorders. The price of the new console didn't come as a shock, but the cost of first-party Switch 2 games at launch definitely raised some eyebrows. Notably, Mario Kart World will be priced at $80 upon release. Alongside this, Nintendo is introducing a new line of Switch 2 accessories, which have also seen price hikes compared to the original Switch, and these prices have increased since their initial announcement.
The only 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 multiple 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 may opt for the new 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 the $80 for new games. For those planning to buy the Switch 2 but don't yet have a Pro controller, the standard Switch Pro controller remains a more affordable option at $69.99.
It's worth noting that these older controllers might sell out as the Switch 2 launch approaches to make way for the new model. Amazon currently has a significant stock shortage and only offers third-party alternatives. In addition to the compatibility of the regular Switch Pro controller, Nintendo has confirmed that the original Joy-Con controllers will also work with the Switch 2, though we generally recommend the Switch Pro controller for most games.
When Will the Switch 2 Pro Controller Be Available?
If the new Switch 2 Pro controller is the only accessory you're keen on, you'll need to wait until the console's launch on June 5. Preorders for the new console, and likely the official accessories, will begin on April 24. Keep in mind that the Switch 2 Pro controller will only be compatible with the Switch 2, not the original Switch.
Listings for the Switch 2 Pro controller have already started appearing at Walmart and Best Buy, though without a preorder date. Walmart also features listings for Switch 2 games that you'll soon be able to preorder.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller
Preorder listing only
$79.00 at Walmart
