Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: Elevating the Gaming Experience

The Nintendo Switch has been a phenomenal success since its release in 2017, offering gamers a unique blend of portability and home console gaming. However, one of the criticisms leveled against the original Joy-Con controllers was their lack of comfort and ergonomics. To address this issue, Nintendo has released the Pro Controller, designed to provide a more premium gaming experience for Switch owners.

Design and Build

The Pro Controller boasts a sleek and sturdy design that’s reminiscent of high-end gaming peripherals. The controller feels substantial in the hand, with a weighty build that’s comfortable to hold during extended gaming sessions. The ergonomic shape is contoured to fit snugly in your hands, reducing fatigue and strain.

One of the standout features of the Pro Controller is its textured grip, which provides excellent traction even when using it for hours on end. Additionally, the controller’s dimensions are carefully balanced to ensure a natural resting position for your thumbs and fingers.

Controller Layout

The Pro Controller features an intuitive layout that’s identical to the standard Joy-Con controllers but with some notable improvements. The analog sticks have been tweaked to provide improved precision and responsiveness, making it easier to navigate complex 3D environments or precise platforming sections.

The D-pad is also upgraded, offering a more tactile and responsive experience compared to the Joy-Con’s directional pad. The face buttons (A, B, X, Y) are larger and more rounded than their Joy-Con counterparts, reducing finger fatigue and making it easier to press them with precision.

Additional Features

One of the most significant upgrades in the Pro Controller is its addition of HD rumble and improved haptic feedback. These features allow for a more immersive gaming experience, as you’ll feel subtle vibrations and texture changes that simulate real-world sensations.

The controller also includes an NFC reader for Amiibo support, allowing you to tap your figures onto the controller to unlock special abilities or content in supported games.

Battery Life

One potential concern with the Pro Controller is its battery life. According to Nintendo, the controller can last up to 40 hours on a single charge when used continuously without the TV dock. In our testing, we achieved around 30-35 hours of moderate gaming, which is still respectable considering the controller’s feature set.

Compatibility

The Pro Controller is fully compatible with all Switch games that support Joy-Con controllers, including popular titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. You can also use the Pro Controller with the Switch Lite handheld console.

Conclusion

The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is a significant improvement over the standard Joy-Con controllers, offering a more premium gaming experience that’s worthy of high-end hardware. While it may not be necessary for every Switch owner, gamers who value comfort and precision will find the Pro Controller to be an excellent investment.

At $69.99 (USD), the Pro Controller is priced competitively with other high-end gaming peripherals on the market. If you’re looking to elevate your Switch gaming experience or simply prefer a more comfortable controller design, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is an excellent choice.

Technical Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 165 mm x 97 mm x 43 mm
  • Weight: Approximately 315 grams
  • Battery Life: Up to 40 hours continuous use without TV dock
  • Compatibility: Fully compatible with all Switch games that support Joy-Con controllers
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth wireless connectivity
  • Additional Features: HD rumble, haptic feedback, NFC reader for Amiibo support