Buying first-party controllers can be an expensive affair, especially if you want a few spare for multiplayer games. Luckily, the best third-party Joy-Cons for Nintendo Switch will do the trick, and some of them can even look just as good.
The Nintendo Switch has been a very popular console since its launch in 2017 but one of the least popular parts of it is the Joy-Con's pesky problem of getting joystick drift. As well as this, as they are attached to the Switch itself, and fairly small, you can often risk them getting smashed by particularly clumsy children.
For this reason, you may want to have a few around for the inevitable moment yours stops working. We at iMore have compiled a list of some of our favorites, with some closely mimicking Nintendo's style and others offering some funky design differences.
Here are the best third-party Joy-Cons for Nintendo Switch that you can pick up right now.
Quick List
Bonacell Joycon controller for Nintendo Switch
A little wider
These controllers come in super cool colors, and will click straight into the side of the Switch. They even have a turbo button for the shooters you'll play with the NES part of your Nintendo Switch online subscription.If you happen to be familiar with PlayStation 2 third-party controllers, you should know all about the turbo button.
JORREP Wireless Controller for Switch
Classicly Switch
These little controllers look an awful lot like the controllers you get with the Switch, albeit with some different colors. They have vibration on board, and they'll recharge from the rail on the Switch. They might not be official, but they look very similar.
Powerextra Joy-Cons Controller Compatible for Nintendo Switch
Funky shapes
These controllers have a slightly jazzier shape than standard switch controllers, so there's something a little different. They also have all the right motion controls, so you'll be able to play your favorite Switch games with no issues.
Officially Licensed Hori Split Pad Pro
Nintendo licensed
This set offers a wider grip than the Nintendo Joy-Con controllers and a little more support on the controller's back. However, some important things to note about the HORI Split Pad Pro are that it will use your Switch battery, it cannot be used off of the Switch, and it does not have rumble, motion, or amiibo support. Despite these cons, we enjoyed using the controller during our review.
Nyko Dualies - Alternatives to JoyCons
Split only
This set made it onto our best third-party Joy-Con controllers for Switch list because it offers a wider grip. These Joy-Cons don't allow for handheld mode, but they do have a programmable turbo button. There are also a variety of colors available. Get a fully immersive experience with rumble and motion control. Unfortunately, they do not have amiibo support.
ALIENGT Joypad Controller
Joypad included
Get a Joypad controller included with the Joy-Con when you pick up this ALIENGT set with a unique M shape. Keeping with the "M theme" is the programmable M (or macro) button. These controllers have dual vibration (but not HD rumble), motion sensors, and include a feature not seen on the original Joy-Con, turbo burst. Although these cannot register amiibo characters, they are still a great replacement for the Nintendo Joy-Con.
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How to choose the best third-party Joy-Con for Nintendo Switch
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The controller you use can really make a difference in your Nintendo Switch gaming experience. Some people prefer a more traditional controller and for that, there are many third-party options as well. However, others may want to stick with having the controllers the way the console intended. If the latter is you, choosing the best third-party Joy-Cons that fit what you need is largely about finding the one with the features important to your play style.
We find that the Hori Split pad Pro is a great option, with its super comfortable shape. It might not have the same kind of features as a standard Switch controller, but it'll make your Switch more comfortable to game on for long periods.
It's uncertain whether these controllers will function with whatever new console Nintendo has planned, but in the meantime, it's a great alternative to official options in the event that you're experiencing Joy-Con drift.
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Rebecca Spear
Gaming Editor
Gaming aficionado Rebecca Spear is iMore's dedicated gaming editor with a focus on Nintendo Switch and iOS gaming. You’ll never catch her without her Switch or her iPad Air handy. If you’ve got a question about Pokémon, The Legend of Zelda, or just about any other Nintendo series check out her guides to help you out. Rebecca has written thousands of articles in the last six years including hundreds of extensive gaming guides, previews, and reviews for both Switch and Apple Arcade. She also loves checking out new gaming accessories like iPhone controllers and has her ear to the ground when it comes to covering the next big trend.
With contributions from
- James Bentley
- Nadine DorniedenContributor
- Alex HuebnerContributor
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