You don’t have to choose one connection mode: the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller works both wirelessly and over USB. Choose wireless if you want to sit farther from the console or dock without routing a cable. Choose wired if your setup keeps you near an available USB port and you prefer a direct cable connection. Nintendo’s setup guidance does not establish that wired play has lower latency, better reliability, or longer battery life.
Wired or wireless: what changes?
| What matters | Wireless | Wired |
|---|---|---|
| Where you can sit | No cable runs from the controller to the console or dock. | You need a cable long enough to reach the controller from the dock in TV mode, or from the console in tabletop mode. [Nintendo’s wired-use instructions] |
| Setup | Pair from the HOME Menu using the controller’s SYNC button, or pair through USB. [Nintendo’s pairing instructions] | Connect the appropriate cable; the Switch 2 Pro Controller begins wired use after connection. TV and tabletop modes use different cable connections. [Nintendo’s wired-use instructions] |
| Measured performance difference | Nintendo’s cited support guidance provides no comparative latency, range, battery-life, or reliability measurements. | Nintendo’s cited support guidance provides no comparative latency, range, battery-life, or reliability measurements. |
For a fixed TV setup, wired is practical if a cable can reach from the dock without getting in the way. For tabletop play, a wired connection runs directly from the console to the controller, so check cable reach and placement. Wireless avoids that cable route. These are setup trade-offs, not evidence that either mode performs better.
Connect a Switch 2 Pro Controller by cable
TV mode: connect to the dock
- Place the Switch 2 in its dock.
- Connect a USB-C to USB-A cable, model BEE-011, to one of the dock’s side USB ports.
- Connect the USB-C end to the port on top of the controller. Wired use begins after connection, according to Nintendo’s instructions.
Tabletop mode: connect to the console
- Set the console on its stand.
- Connect a USB-C to USB-C cable from the console’s top USB-C port to the top of the controller.
- Use a cable that reaches your playing position. Nintendo says this cable is sold separately. Check whether you already own a suitable cable before buying one. [Nintendo’s wired-use instructions]
Pair a Switch 2 Pro Controller wirelessly
- From the HOME Menu, open Controllers, then choose Change Grip/Order.
- Hold the controller’s SYNC button for at least one second and follow the on-screen pairing flow. Nintendo also documents pairing through a USB connection. [Nintendo’s pairing instructions]
Can you reuse an original Switch controller?
Original Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Yes. Nintendo lists the original Switch Pro Controller as compatible with Switch 2 wirelessly. It can also communicate over USB after you enable Nintendo Switch Pro Controller Wired Communication under System Settings > Controllers & Accessories. While that original controller is wired, its NFC touchpoint is disabled. [Nintendo compatibility guidance] [Nintendo’s wired-communication settings instructions]
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller
The Switch 2 Pro Controller also supports both modes. Unlike the original Switch Pro Controller, it automatically uses wired communication over USB and retains NFC while wired, according to Nintendo. Its model number is BEE-008; Nintendo identifies it as compatible only with Switch 2. Check the model number on the controller or current product listing if you are distinguishing it from the earlier version. [Nintendo’s wired-communication instructions] [Nintendo’s controller troubleshooting page]
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Original Nintendo Switch Joy-Con
Original Switch Joy-Con can connect to Switch 2 wirelessly, but they cannot attach to the Switch 2 body. To charge them, use an original Switch console or a suitable original Joy-Con charging accessory. They are not a wired alternative for the Switch 2 Pro Controller. [Nintendo compatibility guidance]
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to know about multiplayer pairing
Nintendo says up to eight wireless controllers can be paired to Switch 2, but that is not a guarantee that every game or setup can use eight at once. The usable number depends on controller type, features, and software. Nintendo’s troubleshooting guidance also says a connected Bluetooth audio device limits wireless controller connections to two. [Nintendo’s pairing instructions] [Nintendo’s troubleshooting guidance]
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Which connection should you choose?
- Choose wireless if you want freedom from a cable between your seat and the dock or console.
- Choose wired in TV mode if the dock is close enough for the cable to reach comfortably and safely.
- Choose wired in tabletop mode if you have a suitable USB-C to USB-C cable long enough to connect the controller directly to the console.
- Reuse your original Switch Pro Controller if it meets your needs; wireless pairing is supported, and wired communication is available after enabling the setting.
- Do not buy a new controller solely for a claimed performance advantage based on Nintendo’s support guidance: it does not compare wired and wireless latency, range, reliability, or battery life.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
