The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →The Switch 2 Pro Controller adds a GameChat C Button, assignable rear GL and GR buttons, and a headset audio jack. Nintendo also describes changes to its sticks, grips, and rumble. The original Switch Pro Controller still works with Switch 2, so owners can keep using it; the newer controller is for players who want its additional features.
What’s new on the Switch 2 Pro Controller?
Nintendo’s comparison highlights three additions to the controls and connections: a C Button for GameChat, two assignable rear buttons, and a built-in audio jack.
| Feature | Switch 2 Pro Controller | Original Switch Pro Controller |
|---|---|---|
| GameChat control | C Button opens the GameChat menu. Nintendo | No C Button listed in Nintendo’s comparison. Nintendo |
| Rear buttons | GL and GR buttons can be assigned button inputs. Nintendo says assignments are saved per game and per player. Nintendo Nintendo developer interview | No GL/GR buttons listed in Nintendo’s comparison. Nintendo |
| Headset connection | Audio jack supports headset microphones for voice chat. Nintendo developer interview | No built-in audio jack listed in Nintendo’s comparison. Nintendo |
How the added buttons work
The C Button provides a direct way to open the GameChat menu. GL and GR let you assign button inputs to the rear of the controller. According to Nintendo’s developer interview, those assignments are stored separately by game and player, rather than being one setting shared across every game.
Headset audio
The Switch 2 controller’s audio jack is a practical difference if you want to connect a headset and use its microphone for voice chat. Nintendo’s cited comparison does not list this jack on the original Pro Controller.
#1 Best Overall
- HD Rumble 2
- Motion controls
- Built-in amiibo functionality*
- Capture Button
- C Button for GameChat**
Did Nintendo change the feel and rumble?
Nintendo says it redesigned the Switch 2 controller from scratch. The company describes its sticks as quieter and smooth-gliding, and says it reshaped the grips and removed the seam around them. Those are Nintendo’s descriptions; the cited sources do not provide independent comparative measurements.
The Switch 2 controller uses HD Rumble 2. In Nintendo’s Ask the Developer interview, developer Shinya Kawamoto said: “However, the HD rumble 2 that’s installed this time not only provides stronger vibration, but also feels more realistic and has quicker response times.” These are Nintendo’s characterizations, not independently measured findings.
Rank #2
- This controller also works with Nintendo Switch 2 - C Button not available
- Eight RGB zones with four pre-set modes for dynamic lighting combinations
- Two programmable quick-action back buttons for customizable gameplay
- Built-in motion controls for immersive gameplay
- Ergonomic design for extended comfort
Can you use either controller across both Switch generations?
The original Switch Pro Controller can pair wirelessly with Switch 2 and can be charged through its dock via USB. The Switch 2 Pro Controller works only with Switch 2; it cannot be used with the original Switch. See Nintendo’s compatibility information for the official details.
How do charging time and battery estimates compare?
| Controller | Official charging information | Official battery-duration estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Original Switch Pro Controller | Approximately six hours to fully charge. Nintendo Support | Approximately 40 hours per full charge; actual duration depends on software and functions in use. Nintendo Support |
| Switch 2 Pro Controller | Approximately three hours to fully charge. Nintendo Support | Not stated in the cited Nintendo FAQ. Nintendo Support |
Nintendo’s cited figures do not establish which controller lasts longer between charges: the support information gives a battery-duration estimate for the original, but not for the Switch 2 model. The listed charge times are approximate.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Rank #3
- Hall Effect Modules: Say goodbye to stick drift with contract-free magnetic sensors in the thumbsticks giving you smoother control, enhanced precision, and increased longevity
- Advanced Gaming Buttons: Get an edge over the competition with mappable Advanced Gaming Buttons you can program on the fly, mid-game—no system settings to configure
- Intuitive Motion Controls: Get immersed in your games with fluid, responsive motion controls that provide an intuitive way to aim, steer, fly, and more
- C Button: Easily activate fun GameChat features
- Rechargeable Battery: Get up to 30 hours of battery life on a single charge. Includes an extra-long 10 ft. USB-C cable to recharge the internal battery*
Which controller should you choose?
- Keep the original Pro Controller if you already own it and want a controller Nintendo says is compatible with Switch 2.
- Choose the Switch 2 Pro Controller if you want the C Button, assignable GL/GR buttons, or a headset jack on the controller.
- Consider the new model for its redesigned feel or HD Rumble 2 if those features appeal to you, keeping in mind that the feel and rumble descriptions above are Nintendo’s, not independent test results.
The main practical case for buying the new controller is access to its added controls and headset connection—not a demonstrated battery-life advantage or a requirement for playing Switch 2.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- This controller also works with Nintendo Switch 2 - C Button not available
- Experience the thrill of the race with the Grand Prix Mario design
- Glows in the dark
- Two programmable quick-action back buttons for customizable gameplay
- Built-in motion controls for immersive gameplay
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.
