The Nintendo Switch. Is it a console? Tablet? Both? Neither? Well, wherever you stand on that question, one thing is true, you play games on it and need extra controllers for multiplayer. Me? I have children, so this was a no brainer for me. I was destined to get extra controllers once I bought MarioKart 8. Even more so once I started experiencing the dreaded "JoyCon Drift" that many users probably have. With that said, I was never a fan of the JoyCon but the Switch only allows FOUR wireless controllers to be connected. So, what did I do? Naturally, I bought FOUR wireless controllers (and a fifth wired one) to be able to have extra controllers for game night in the house. Having used them all extensively over the past few weeks, I think I have a decent opinion of each to help you make an educated purchase when buying an extra controller (or three).
I'm going to review the above five controllers for you to better help you make a choice about buying an extra controller that isn't directly a Nintendo product. As you know, most companies prefer that you use their products with their equipment but, many of those products can be really pricey.
Nintendo Switch HORIPAD Wired Controller - $20 on Amazon
This controller is licensed by Nintendo, so expect good functionality here. It feels a little cheap and very light in your hands so, players that are a little heavy handed may have a fear of breaking it. The D-Pad is removable, though I'm not sure why you would want to do that. Note: I found out that you can remove the D-Pad the hard way with an "accident" involving my daughter. All that aside, it works well enough and the cord is long to extend a decent way across a living room. It's probably about the size of an XBOX controller and comparable to Pro Controllers from with Wii-U system. I'm still not sure why those controllers weren't compatible with the Switch. It's a good price at $20 though, it's wired so you'll have to use one of the USB slots on your Switch dock for it to be used. This also means that you can only use this while the Switch is in dock mode.
VOYEE Pro Switch Controller - $21 on Amazon
I'm not too fond of this controller mainly due to the M1 and M2 buttons on the back of the grips. They weren't advertised in the Amazon ad, so I had no idea they were there. Players with bigger hands with struggle a bit with this controller because their fingers will likely hit the buttons inadvertently. The buttons from the games we've played function pretty much as an A or B button which at times, caused some strange moments during gameplay. Outside of that, it functions well and my daughter had the easiest time using it. (She's the youngest at only 9) It's smaller than the above wired controller and it's construction feels a bit sturdier but yet still a bit cheap. It is Bluetooth and can connect to the Switch with the C-type cable provided in the box. Setup was very simple and it does go to sleep when not being used. On wakeup, it picks up the Switch in a few seconds and can be used easily. It holds a charge well, I played a few games for several hours and did not need to charge it. As a bonus, if you are a PC player, this controller can connect to your computer, as well. For $21, I'm not too upset but, the construction and bad advertising of the buttons being in a bad spot makes this controller not really all that great.
YCCTEAM Wireless Pro Controller - $34 on Amazon
Heavier and sturdier than any of the other controllers, it feels great in your hands despite its larger size. My daughter generally fights others for this controller since it's her favorite one. Don't let the price tag shun you away, there is constantly a sale for this controller. It's retail price is $34 but, I only bought it for just under $27. (As of this writing, an extra $4 coupon is being offered at checkout, making this $23) Buttons are responsive and I had no issues with anything. Even button mashing and rapid movements didn't hinder anything on the controller. Plus, it's the best looking controller I've purchased. The only issues I have are on the Bluetooth side. While connecting it with the provided C-type cable was stress free, it's reconnecting it once you are using multiple controllers or reassigning them. It can take a bit for the controller to connect at times and, strangely enough, this controller did not go to sleep. I left the controller sitting for HOURS and it never turned off. It holds its charge EXTREMELY well as a result of this, but, I would have liked to see the controller shut itself off when not being used. A nice touch on this controller is also at the top of the controller, you see a red light indicator when it's charging. It turns off when it's charged. It's a decent controller nevertheless but, you can do better and you can do worse.
Olimoxi Switch Controller - $20 on Amazon, $18 for Amazon Prime users
Lightweight but sturdy in your hands, this controller is about the same size as a PS2/PS3 controller. For me, that's great. My son loves this controller (He's 11) due to it's design and color scheme. He also had an easy time using it. The C-type cable provided makes it for easy set up - even if many of the instructions were in Japanese (Note: after fumbling around the manual, there were some English instructions provided). It holds a charge well and goes to sleep if left idle. It can also turn on the Switch when synced, making it an ideal controller when using it for pick up and go. The buttons feel good and responsive and there were no issues when using it long term. I do recommend this controller for sure. As long as you don't mind it being white because, you know...dirt and stuff.
ASTARRY Wireless Pro Controller - $17 on Amazon
You're probably thinking, "Isn't this the same controller as the previous? Just Black instead of white?" You'd be pretty much right as there is no real difference in how these two controllers operate. Just the sellers of them. It functions identical to the Olimoxi controller in every single way. Even down to coming with the C-type cable for setup and charging. The instructions were all English though, so, I guess that's a plus? Seriously, though, this is a great controller and I recommend it for anyone. Given it's price and great functionality, this is the best one I bought as it's my most used after having all five of them bought and tested extensively.
Hopefully this help you in your purchases when considering your next purchase of a controller. We all know that buying an "off-brand" or third-party controller can be a roll of the dice at times, but all of these controllers work and I've had them all for about two weeks. They have fallen to the floor, been kicked and all and they still work. Now, that doesn't mean to let your young toddler get his or her hands on it but, accidents happen and they seem to be able to survive a few accidents. If you choose to buy any of these or a different controller, make sure you read the reviews, look at the pictures or even the number of reviews and rating. They will put your mind at ease when making a decision. Happy gaming!
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