Joy-Con vs. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: Which Should You Buy?

Nintendo also sells the left and right Joy-Con controllers individually for $39.99 each, a great option if you need to replace just one side of your console's controllers. However, most of the unique colors are limited to the dual packs.

If you're planning to play your Switch while connected to your TV or monitor, you'll likely need a Joy-Con Grip unless you plan to play with a single Joy-Con horizontally. This Nintendo Switch accessory is an additional $19.99 and allows you to slide both the left and right Joy-Con controllers into it to create a more traditional feeling controller that's perfect for sitting on the couch.

The Switch Pro Controller is Nintendo's traditional offering that closely resembles an Xbox controller in its layout. The Pro Controller retails for an MSRP of $69.99, although these occasionally go on sale.

Specs and Features

Both the Joy-Con and Pro Controller share HD rumble which applies unique vibration sensations based on the game you're playing, an NFC reader for scanning Amiibo figures, and motion controls.

However, the Joy-Con are unique in that they're essentially two controllers in one. When attached to your Nintendo Switch, they act as the left and right side of a standard controller, but each side can also be flipped horizontally and used as a small controller. This is perfect for multiplayer gaming on the go in Tabletop Mode, or casual couch co-op gaming sessions in Mario Kart or Mario Party.

You can also utilize the Joy-Con controllers detached from the console by holding each one vertically in your hands, or by slotting them into the Joy-Con Grip for a more traditional controller experience. The Joy-Con also conveniently charge while connected to your Nintendo Switch console, so they are always ready to go when you need them.

The Pro Controller doesn't attach to your Nintendo Switch in any way, and doesn't come apart. This makes it a more comfortable controller that's more ergonomically designed to fit your hand with improved grips and weight distribution, compared to the Joy-Con controllers (either separately or used in the Joy-Con Grip).

It connects wirelessly to your Nintendo Switch and features larger thumbsticks, larger face buttons, and a real D-pad, unlike the Joy-Con controllers that are comprised of four separate circular directional buttons. The triggers and shoulder buttons are also noticeably larger and more comfortable to press.

The Pro Controller also features a built-in lithium-ion battery that lasts for around 40 hours on a single charge and can be easily recharged with a USB-C cable inserted into the port located on the top of the controller.

Which One Should You Buy?

The Joy-Con controllers are really the jack-of-all-trades as they can be used in Handheld Mode, Tabletop Mode, and when connected to your TV. Not to mention, each pair of Joy-Con controllers really double as two individual controllers, which is great for multiplayer or co-op gaming. While they work great for casual games, the smaller size may not be comfortable to use for extended periods for those with larger hands.

The Pro Controller is ideal if you primarily play on the couch or in Tabletop Mode, as it's far more comfortable than the Joy-Con and features larger analog sticks, buttons, triggers, and a better grip. The 40-hour battery life is also a huge bonus, as you'll hardly ever run out while playing.

It's worth noting, however, that while every game can be played using a Joy-Con controller, not all games support the Pro Controller. While it's rare, certain titles such as Super Mario Party, 1-2-Switch, Pokemon Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!, and Ring Fit Adventure can't be played with a Pro Controller. Thankfully, this is few and far in between, and these games are generally designed around the unique form factor and features of the Joy-Con controllers.

Matthew Adler is a Commerce, Features, Guides, News, Previews, and Reviews writer for IGN. You can follow him on the site formerly known as Twitter @MatthewAdler and watch him stream on Twitch.