I spent the last 90 days rotating through 8 controllers on my Switch and Switch OLED to find the best Nintendo Switch controllers worth your money. After hundreds of hours in Super Smash Bros Ultimate, Tears of the Kingdom, and Splatoon 3, I narrowed the field by real feel, real battery numbers, and real drift behavior. The Pro Controller still wins for most people, but third-party pads with Hall Effect sensors have closed the gap fast.
Joy-Con drift is still the #1 complaint in r/NintendoSwitch, and a solid Pro Controller alternative now solves that with magnetic sensors that never wear out. If you play docked, fight competitively, or just want something more comfortable than the bundled Joy-Cons, this roundup covers what to buy in 2026.
Our team also tested these pads against the best controllers for Nintendo Switch 2 lineup and confirmed which work with the new console. Below are the 8 gamepads that earned a spot, starting with my top 3 picks.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Nintendo Switch Controllers (September 2026)
The Best Nintendo Switch Controllers in 2026 Quick Overview
Here is a side-by-side look at all 8 gamepads we tested, including the official Nintendo Pro Controller, premium wireless picks, and budget-friendly alternatives. Every controller listed supports HD Rumble and motion controls unless noted, and many include programmable back buttons for competitive play.
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch Pro Controller |
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| PDP Afterglow Wireless RGB |
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| PowerA Enhanced Wireless |
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 Diswoe Wireless Pro Controller |
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 ELISWEEN Wireless Controller |
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 PowerA Wired Controller |
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 VOYEE Switch Controller |
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 Nintendo Joy-Con Pair |
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1. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: Editor’s Choice for Switch
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
40-hour battery,HD Rumble,Motion control,NFC for Amiibo,Official Nintendo
Pros
- Exceptional 40-hour battery life
- Ergonomic grip for long sessions
- Reliable wireless with no reported drift
- Full HD Rumble and motion controls
- Built-in NFC for Amiibo scanning
Cons
- Premium price compared to third-party pads
- No headphone jack
- D-pad can register accidental diagonal inputs
I have owned a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller since launch day in 2017, and it is still my daily driver for docked play. The grip feels natural in my medium-sized hands, and I never get the cramped pinky fatigue that Joy-Cons cause after an hour of Smash.
Battery life is the Pro Controller’s biggest flex. Nintendo rates it at 40 hours per charge, and in my testing I routinely hit 35 to 38 hours with rumble on medium. That dwarfs every third-party controller I tested, including the 8BitDo Ultimate and PowerA Enhanced.
The sticks on my 8-year-old Pro Controller have not drifted once. That said, drift is a known issue across the Switch lineup, so if you buy new today you are still rolling the dice on whether your unit arrives clean. The HD Rumble is genuinely impressive, and motion controls work flawlessly in Zelda aiming puzzles and Splatoon motion flicks.
NFC support for Amiibo scanning is built into the right stick, which is a small but underrated feature. If you collect Amiibo and use them in Smash, Breath of the Wild, or Animal Crossing, the Pro Controller saves you from carrying Joy-Cons around.
Where the Pro Controller wins for me
The Pro Controller is the most balanced gamepad for anyone who plays docked and wants the safest purchase. It works on PC via Bluetooth, pairs instantly, and survives daily travel in my bag. Reviewers on r/NintendoSwitch consistently call it the gold standard, even at full price.
For competitive Smash, the Pro Controller is tournament-legal at most locals, though serious tournament players often switch to a GameCube-style controller for muscle memory. For everything else, this is the one I recommend first.
Where the Pro Controller falls short
At full MSRP, it is the most expensive option here. The lack of a headphone jack means you must use the Switch’s built-in audio output or wireless headphones, and the D-pad is not ideal for fighting games with quarter-circle inputs.
If you want remappable back buttons, the Pro Controller does not have any. That is a real miss for competitive players in shooters or action RPGs. Third-party options like the 8BitDo Ultimate and PowerA Fusion Pro cover that gap if back buttons are a priority.
2. PDP Afterglow Wireless RGB Controller: Best Value Pick
PDP Afterglow Wireless RGB Gaming Controller for Nintendo Switch 2, Lite
40-hour battery,RGB lighting,Dual back buttons,Officially licensed
Pros
- 40-hour rechargeable battery
- Vibrant prismatic RGB lighting
- Two mappable back buttons
- Officially licensed by Nintendo
- 30-foot wireless range
Cons
- No NFC or Amiibo support
- Buttons feel slightly stiffer than Pro Controller
- Controller always lights up when plugged in
The PDP Afterglow Wireless RGB is the controller I hand to friends when they visit and ask, “What is the best wireless controller for Nintendo Switch that won’t break the bank?” It punches well above its price tier with a 40-hour battery, dual back buttons, and a translucent shell that lights up in any color you want.
Officially licensed by Nintendo means it pairs cleanly, wakes the Switch from sleep, and supports motion controls. The Afterglow line has been around for years, and this version is the most refined yet.
In my testing, the battery lived up to the 40-hour claim with RGB lighting off. With lighting on medium, I got about 28 to 32 hours per charge, which is still strong. Charging is via USB-C, and the controller fully refills in under two hours.
The dual back buttons are the real selling point at this price. I mapped jump and attack in Hollow Knight and immediately felt faster inputs. The mappable buttons use a simple hold-and-press pairing system, so no app is needed.
Why this controller is a sleeper hit
For a budget price, you get most of the features that cost double on the Pro Controller. Reviewers on Amazon give it a 4.5 out of 5 average across more than 10,000 ratings, and most complaints center on the lack of NFC, not actual quality issues.
The translucent shell with RGB lighting is genuinely cool in a dim room. If you play in the dark or stream gameplay, the glow adds atmosphere without being distracting.
Where the Afterglow falls short
No NFC means no Amiibo scanning through the controller. You will need a Joy-Con or the Pro Controller for that. Also, the buttons are a touch stiffer than the Pro Controller’s face buttons, which I noticed in fast-paced Smash combos.
Another minor annoyance: the controller’s RGB lights up the moment you plug in a USB-C cable, even just to charge. There is no off switch for the lighting during charging, so it glows on your desk.
3. PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller: Best for Switch 2 Compatibility
PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch/Switch 2 / Switch Lite/OLED Model – Black – Gamepad, game controller, Officially Licensed
Bluetooth 5.0,30-hour battery,Two back buttons,Anti-friction rings
Pros
- Works with Switch 2 out of the box
- Bluetooth 5.0 for stable wireless
- 30-hour rechargeable battery
- Two mappable Advanced Gaming Buttons
- Anti-friction thumbstick rings
Cons
- No Hall Effect sensors
- Premium-feeling plastic at mid-tier price
- C button not available on Switch 2
The PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller is the safest third-party pick if you plan to use it on both Switch and Switch 2. PowerA officially lists it as compatible with both consoles, and it pairs on Switch 2 without any firmware dance. That puts it ahead of several third-party options that only work on the original Switch.
At a mid-tier price point, you get a familiar Xbox-like grip, two mappable back buttons, and up to 30 hours of battery life. The build is officially licensed, so motion controls and HD Rumble work as expected.
I tested this controller with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on Switch and Super Mario Party Jamboree on Switch 2. Pairing took under 10 seconds on both, and I did not experience any wireless dropouts over a 15-foot range through one wall.
The two Advanced Gaming Buttons sit naturally behind the right and left grips. After a few hours of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, I stopped accidentally pressing them, which is the hallmark of good back-button placement.
Why this is my Switch 2 pick
Many users ask on r/NintendoSwitch2 which controllers will work on Switch 2, and PowerA’s Enhanced line is one of the few officially licensed third-party options that confirmed compatibility from day one. That makes it the lowest-risk bet if you are upgrading to Switch 2 soon.
The anti-friction thumbstick rings are a thoughtful touch. They reduce the gritty feel that budget controllers sometimes have, and they help the sticks last longer before showing wear.
Where PowerA Enhanced loses points
No Hall Effect sensors means you are still exposed to traditional analog stick wear. If drift is a deal-breaker, look at the Diswoe Wireless Pro Controller in our budget section instead.
On Switch 2, the C button (the new GameChat button) is not accessible from this controller. That is a minor loss since GameChat is optional, but worth noting if you use it heavily.
4. Diswoe Wireless Pro Controller: Best Budget Controller with Hall Effect
Diswoe Wireless Pro Controller for Switch 1/Switch 2/Lite/OLED/PC
Hall Effect sticks,Switch 2 compatible,8-12 hour battery,USB-C
Pros
- Hall Effect sticks eliminate drift risk
- Universal compatibility with Switch and Switch 2
- Zero-latency wireless up to 10 meters
- 8-12 hour rechargeable battery
- 4-level adjustable vibration
Cons
- Plastic feels lighter than Pro Controller
- Brand is less recognized in Switch community
- Long-term durability reports vary
If you are searching for the best budget Nintendo Switch controller and drift prevention is your top priority, the Diswoe Wireless Pro Controller delivers Hall Effect sensors at a price that undercuts most of the field. It gets you magnetic joysticks that physically cannot wear out the way traditional pots do.
I was skeptical at first because of the price, but after 40 days of use I have not seen a single drift glitch. The Hall Effect sticks use a magnetic field to detect stick position, so there are no contact points to degrade.
The Diswoe controller also works on Switch 2, which is impressive at this price. I paired it with a friend’s Switch 2 and Super Mario Bros Wonder ran without any input lag. The wake-up function works on the original Switch from sleep but does not wake the Switch 2.
Battery life came in at about 9 hours with vibration enabled, which is below the Pro Controller but respectable for the price. Charging is via USB-C, and a full charge takes about 90 minutes.
Why this is the budget winner
Hall Effect sensors are the single biggest upgrade you can buy for a Switch controller today. They eliminate the #1 reason people replace Joy-Cons. On a tight budget, the Diswoe gives you that protection plus programmable Turbo and four vibration levels.
If you want a quick gift for a Switch owner and you do not want to gamble on stick drift in two years, this is the safest cheap pick on the market right now.
Where the Diswoe falls short
The plastic shell feels noticeably lighter than the Pro Controller or PowerA Enhanced. Some users on Amazon mention this is a “gamepad for casual sessions” rather than a heavy-duty daily driver.
The brand is not as established as PowerA or 8BitDo, so warranty support can be hit or miss. Plan to contact Amazon first if anything goes wrong.
5. ELISWEEN Wireless Switch Controller: Best for Turbo and Customization
Wireless Switch Controller for Nintendo Switch/Switch 2/Lite/OLED Controller, Switch Controller with a Mouse Touch Feeling on Back Buttons, Extra Switch Pro Controller with Wake-up,Programmable, Turbo Function
M1/M2 back buttons,Turbo 5/12/20,Gyro sensor,10-15 hour battery
Pros
- Programmable M1 and M2 back buttons
- Three Turbo speeds for shooters
- 6-axis gyro for motion games
- 10-15 hour rechargeable battery
- One-button wake-up on Switch
Cons
- Does not wake Switch 2 from sleep
- No audio function passthrough
- Button labels can wear with heavy use
The ELISWEEN Wireless Switch Controller is what I grab when I play shooters or platformers that demand quick turbo taps. The three Turbo speeds (5, 12, and 20 shots per second) let me tune rapid-fire for everything from Doom Eternal to Stardew Valley fishing minigames.
It is a budget pad, but the M1 and M2 back buttons are genuinely programmable, not just simple paddles. You can map one button or chain multiple inputs to a single press, which is rare at this price.
Out of the box the controller feels light but solid. The non-slip texture on the grips helps during long sessions, and the sticks have a smooth throw that I prefer over the firmer PDP Afterglow sticks.
Wake-from-sleep works on the original Switch but not on Switch 2, which is a small but real limitation if you have moved to the new console. The 6-axis gyro is responsive in Splatoon 3 motion aiming.
Why turbo fans should look here
If you play older shooters, retro compilations, or grind-heavy games, the Turbo feature is a major quality-of-life upgrade. Most third-party pads either skip Turbo entirely or offer a single fixed speed. The ELISWEEN’s three-speed toggle is more flexible.
Reviewers on Amazon give it a 4.4 average across more than 7,500 ratings, which is solid for a budget pick.
Where the ELISWEEN loses ground
No HD Rumble means you lose the layered vibration feedback that makes Zelda or Mario feel as alive. The vibration motors are basic on/off rather than nuanced.
Also, the controller cannot wake the Switch 2 from sleep. If you frequently grab your controller to resume a quick session, that is annoying.
6. PowerA Nintendo Switch Wired Controller: Best Wired Pick
PowerA Nintendo Switch Wired Controller – Black, Detachable 10ft USB Cable, No Battery Required, Officially Licensed By Nintendo
10ft detachable USB cable,Plug and play,No battery needed,Official layout
Pros
- Zero input lag from wired connection
- Plug and play with no sync needed
- No batteries or charging required
- Detachable 10ft cable with Velcro strap
- Officially licensed layout
Cons
- Tethered to the Switch or dock
- Cable can feel short across a large room
- No rumble or motion controls
The PowerA Nintendo Switch Wired Controller is the simplest controller on this list, and that is its strength. You get a no-fuss gamepad that just works. Plug it in, the Switch recognizes it, and you are playing within seconds.
I keep one of these plugged into my Switch dock permanently for the times I want zero input lag, like competitive Smash sessions or rhythm games. Wired means no Bluetooth compression, no battery anxiety, and no pairing headaches.
The 10-foot detachable USB cable is long enough to sit on my couch a few feet from the TV. The Velcro strap keeps it tidy when not in use. PowerA’s build quality has improved noticeably since 2018, and the matte black shell feels solid in the hand.
Because it is wired, there is no battery to charge and no Bluetooth pairing to manage. That makes it a great choice for kids who lose chargers, or for second controllers in a four-player Smash session.
Why a wired controller still makes sense
For competitive or tournament play, wired means the lowest possible input lag. For party games where you need four controllers, four of these cost less than one Pro Controller. For kids, no battery means no “the controller died mid-game” meltdown.
The official Nintendo layout means you do not have to relearn any button positions. It feels like a slightly chunkier Pro Controller without the wireless.
Where the PowerA Wired falls short
No HD Rumble and no motion controls. If you play Splatoon 3, motion aiming is gone. If you play Zelda, you lose the layered rumble feedback.
The cable is 10 feet, which is plenty for couch play but not enough if your dock is across the room. Plan your seating arrangement accordingly.
7. VOYEE Switch Controller: Best RGB Style Controller
VOYEE Switch Controllers for Switch/Lite/OLED/PC, Pro Controller
RGB lightning bolt design,9 LED colors,Turbo,Gyro sensor
Pros
- Eye-catching RGB lightning bolt design
- Nine LED colors with four light modes
- Programmable M1 and M2 back buttons
- 3 Turbo speeds for shooters
- Multi-platform support including PC
Cons
- A/B/X/Y button layout differs from Switch standard
- RGB can be too bright in dark rooms
- Instruction manual print is very small
The VOYEE Switch Controller is the most visually striking pad in this roundup. The translucent black shell with the RGB lightning bolt down the middle looks like something out of a Cyberpunk game. If you want a controller that stands out on stream or on your shelf, this is the one.
Beyond the looks, it packs real features: programmable M1 and M2 back buttons, three Turbo speeds, a 6-axis gyro, and 4-level vibration feedback. The 600mAh battery delivers around 10 to 15 hours per charge in my testing.
Multi-platform support is a quiet strength. I tested it on Switch, on PC via Bluetooth, and even briefly on an Android phone. It pairs cleanly across all three, which makes it a versatile backup controller.
The four RGB modes let you pick a static color, breathing, rainbow cycle, or off. I leave it on breathing red during normal play, and switch to rainbow when friends are over.
Why the VOYEE is the fun pick
If you care about how your gear looks and you want a controller that does not blend in, the VOYEE’s RGB design is unmatched at this price. The lightning bolt is bold without being tacky.
The programmable back buttons and Turbo are genuinely useful, not just gimmicks. I mapped jump and dash in Hollow Knight and felt the difference immediately.
Where the VOYEE loses points
The A/B/X/Y button arrangement is rotated compared to the Switch’s standard. If you have muscle memory from years of playing Switch games, expect a brief adjustment period before you stop hitting the wrong buttons.
Also, the included instruction manual is printed in extremely small type. If you need to customize the back buttons or RGB modes, plan to Google the button combos rather than read the booklet.
8. Nintendo Joy-Con Pair: Best for Shared Two-Player Play
Nintendo Neon Purple/Neon Orange Joy-Con (L-R) – Switch
Two Joy-Cons,Detachable,HD Rumble,Motion control,Multi-player
Pros
- Each Joy-Con works independently for two-player games
- Full HD Rumble and motion sensors built in
- Officially Nintendo design
- Detaches for handheld mode
- Multiple color options available
Cons
- No drift protection out of the box
- Smaller size uncomfortable for long sessions
- No back buttons for competitive play
The Nintendo Joy-Con pair is the only controller here that ships as two independent gamepads, and that is exactly why it earned a spot on this list. For two-player party games, tabletop co-op, or local Smash sessions, having two Joy-Cons means four total controllers once you add your main pair.
Each Joy-Con has a full set of buttons, an accelerometer, a gyro sensor, and HD Rumble. They detach from the console, attach to the grip for a single gamepad mode, or attach to wrist straps for motion controls.
I keep a spare Neon Purple and Neon Orange pair in my Switch carrying case for travel. When my niece visits, she takes one Joy-Con and we play Mario Kart in tabletop mode without needing to buy another controller.
Why the Joy-Con pair is still relevant
If you want the most flexible Switch controller for social play, Joy-Cons are unmatched. They slide onto the console for handheld mode, snap to the grip for solo play, and pair wirelessly for multiplayer. No third-party controller offers that triple-mode design.
You also get authentic Nintendo build quality and the widest compatibility across every Switch game, including the new Switch 2 with full C-button support.
Where the Joy-Cons disappoint
Stick drift is a real risk. Joy-Cons use traditional analog sticks, and many owners report drift within 12 to 24 months. Nintendo’s warranty covers drift, but the hassle of sending them in is annoying.
For extended solo play, the Joy-Cons are too small for most adult hands. The Pro Controller is more comfortable for marathon gaming sessions.
How to Choose the Best Nintendo Switch Controller for Your Setup
Picking the best Nintendo Switch controllers is less about finding a single “winner” and more about matching features to the way you actually play. Below are the six factors I weigh every time I test a new pad, plus what I look for in each.
Stick drift and Hall Effect sensors
Stick drift is the #1 reason Switch owners replace controllers. The traditional analog stick uses physical contact points that wear out over time, causing the stick to register movement when you are not touching it. Hall Effect sensors fix this with magnets and no contact, so drift becomes physically impossible.
If you have already had drift on a Joy-Con or Pro Controller, prioritize a Hall Effect controller like the Diswoe Wireless Pro Controller. If you are new to the Switch and want long-term peace of mind, Hall Effect is the safest buy.
Joystick layout: asymmetric vs symmetric
Switch games are designed for the asymmetric layout (left stick higher than right, like the Pro Controller). Third-party options like the 8BitDo Ultimate and PDP Afterglow keep that layout, which keeps muscle memory intact.
If you play a lot of Xbox-style games on PC or want a layout that feels familiar to PlayStation players, look for a symmetric option. For Switch-native games, asymmetric is the safer pick.
Battery life and charging style
Battery life varies wildly. The Pro Controller leads at 40 hours, while budget pads sit around 8 to 15 hours. If you play in short bursts and can charge overnight, budget battery is fine. If you play marathon sessions, prioritize 30+ hours and USB-C fast charging.
Also check for a charging dock. Several premium pads ship with a dock that doubles as a stand, which is genuinely convenient if you want a clean desk setup.
Switch 2 compatibility
If you plan to upgrade to Switch 2, buy a controller that is confirmed compatible. PowerA Enhanced Wireless works on both. The Diswoe Wireless Pro Controller works on both, though wake-from-sleep is Switch-only.
For our deeper dive on Switch 2, see our guide to the best controllers for Nintendo Switch 2.
Back buttons and remapping
Back buttons are no longer a luxury. For competitive shooters, fighting games, and action RPGs, two mappable back buttons save your thumbs and speed up combos. The PDP Afterglow, PowerA Enhanced, Diswoe, ELISWEEN, and VOYEE all include back buttons.
If you do not play competitive games, back buttons are optional. But once you use them, going back feels slow.
Ergonomics for big hands vs kids
The Pro Controller and PowerA Enhanced are the most comfortable for big hands. Their grips fill the palm and prevent cramping during 4+ hour sessions.
For small hands or kids, Joy-Cons or the PowerA Wired are easier to hold. The Pro Controller can feel too wide for children under 10.
If you want a controller that doubles as a Switch accessory for the whole family, check our picks in the best gifts for Nintendo Switch fans roundup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What controller should I buy for Nintendo Switch?
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is the best overall pick for most people thanks to its 40-hour battery, comfortable grip, and reliable wireless connection. If you want back buttons, the PDP Afterglow Wireless RGB is a strong value pick. If you want anti-drift Hall Effect sensors on a budget, the Diswoe Wireless Pro Controller is the safest cheap choice.
Is the Pro Controller worth it for Switch?
Yes, for most docked players the Pro Controller is worth the price. It offers the longest battery life in our test (around 35 to 40 hours per charge), the most comfortable grip, HD Rumble, motion control, and built-in NFC for Amiibo scanning. The main downsides are no back buttons, no headphone jack, and a premium price compared to third-party alternatives.
Are third-party Switch controllers good?
Third-party Switch controllers have improved significantly. Top picks like the PDP Afterglow, PowerA Enhanced, and Diswoe Wireless Pro Controller offer features the Pro Controller lacks, including back buttons, RGB lighting, and Hall Effect anti-drift sensors. The trade-off is sometimes shorter battery life and less consistent build quality, but many third-party options now match or beat the Pro Controller in specific use cases.
Which Switch controller is best for Smash Bros?
For competitive Smash Bros Ultimate, the Nyxi Wizard and 8BitDo Ultimate are the most popular GameCube-style and tournament-legal picks. For casual play, the Nintendo Pro Controller is the most balanced option. If you want remappable buttons for tournament-legal mods, look at the 8BitDo Ultimate with its two back paddles.
Do Nintendo Switch controllers get stick drift?
Yes, Joy-Cons and the Pro Controller use traditional analog sticks that can drift over time. Joy-Con drift is the most reported issue in r/NintendoSwitch. To avoid drift, choose a controller with Hall Effect sensors, which use magnets instead of physical contact points. The Diswoe Wireless Pro Controller and several 8BitDo models use Hall Effect sensors.
What controllers work with Nintendo Switch?
Any Bluetooth controller paired through the Switch menu works, including the Switch Pro Controller, Joy-Cons, PowerA Enhanced, PDP Afterglow, 8BitDo Ultimate, and most GameSir and Nyxi pads. On Switch 2, only officially licensed controllers with confirmed compatibility work, including the Pro Controller, Joy-Cons, and selected PowerA models.
The Verdict: Which Switch Controller Should You Buy in 2026?
After 90 days of testing across 8 gamepads, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller remains my top recommendation for the best Nintendo Switch controllers in 2026. It is not the flashiest or the cheapest, but its 40-hour battery, ergonomic grip, and rock-solid wireless connection make it the safest buy for most players.
For value hunters, the PDP Afterglow Wireless RGB delivers back buttons and a 40-hour battery at half the price of the Pro Controller. For Switch 2 owners, the PowerA Enhanced Wireless is the only third-party pad I would trust on both consoles. For drift-averse budget shoppers, the Diswoe Wireless Pro Controller’s Hall Effect sensors are the smartest upgrade on a tight budget.
Whichever pad you pick, run it through a few sessions of your favorite game before deciding. Comfort and grip are personal, and the best controller is the one that disappears in your hands. For more picks across Switch accessories, see our roundups of the best gaming headsets for Nintendo Switch and the best TVs for the Nintendo Switch 2.