Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller Review … The Tanooiki Suit of Controllers!
Summary: The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is indeed the Tanooiki Suit of Controllers!
5
Tanooiki Controller!
Building on the legacy of its predecessor, the new Nintendo Switch 2 is officially a hit and our full review can be found at Nintendo Switch 2 Review (NS2 Console Review) – Impulse Gamer. With a myriad of control options and if you’re looking to be the Jedi Master of your gaming worlds, the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is a must and wow, this new gaming peripheral is perfect in almost every sense of the word. Even though the controller is smaller than the PS5 DualSense or XSX controllers, it feels just right, proportionally weighted making it ideal for those longer than long gaming sessions on TV mode. Also, if you’re migrating from a PlayStation or Xbox console, the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is a must as it delivers an identical experience and does channel that next-gen experience.
As it’s made for the Switch 2, it comes with the latest HD Rumble 2 for multiple vibration patterns, supports motion controls (accelerator, gyroscope) and comes with a quick access button for GameChat. The dimensions of the Switch 2 Pro Controller measures at 105mm x 148mm x 60.2mm with a weight of just 235 grams. Connectivity includes Bluetooth 3.0 and NFC (Near-Field Communication) and it is powered by a 1070 mAh that with light gaming will provide up to 40-hours of battery. It charges via USB-C and according to Nintendo, a fully flat Switch 2 Pro Controller will take up to 3.5 hours to charge. In Australia, the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller currently retails for $119AUD (June 2025).
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller Product Features:
- HD rumble 2
- Motion controls
- Built-in amiibo functionality (*1)
- Capture Button
- C Button for GameChat (*2)
- GL/GR buttons that you can map to any button you choose
- Audio jack – 4 pole stereo 3.5mm mini plug (CTIA standard)
- Only for use with the Nintendo Switch 2 system.
(*1) amiibo not included.
(*2) Internet, Nintendo Switch Online membership (sold separately) and Nintendo Account required for online features, including GameChat. Not available in all countries. Terms and GameChat requirements apply
Physically, the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller mirrors the previous controller, including a similar layout, however there are some subtle changes such as larger buttons, sturdier analog sticks with “smooth gliding” and the inclusion of the GameChat button. Further, you can map the GL/GR buttons to any button that you choose which (ignore the cliche) is potentially a game changer for some gamers. And if you’re looking to experience a more personal audio experience, you simply connect your headset into the controller via the audio jack.
Gallery
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller Buttons
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In terms of testing, I first trialled the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller with Mario Kart World and opposed to the Joy-Cons that have their own purpose, this high-end controller really channels that PlayStation 5 or XSX experience. In Mario Kart World, I love the smaller size of Pro 2 as I took all those crazy corners at high-speed without losing control and jumping on rails was a flawless experience. Additionally, accessing those power-ups was a breeze, even flying through the air and racing on water.
Unboxing
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Next up was Street Fighter 6: Years 1-2 Fighter’s Edition and this controller was made for fighters as I successfully completed the Flash Knuckle and Sonic Boom maneuvers like an e-Sport professional… well, I would like to think so anyway. Another great launch title is Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition and again, it provided more control over my character in the game, including the various vehicles at my disposal. With that said, the controller is super responsive and as mentioned, very comfortable.
Final Thoughts?
The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is a premium upgrade from its predecessor that is a must for gamers wanting that traditional controller experience but more importantly, it works a treat that is also super responsive and the analog sticks while not designed with Hall Effect technology, it still provides some unparalleled accuracy. The only drawback for some may be the price but it will still be the King of Kings of Nintendo controllers when compared to third party solutions.
Recommended!