Switch 2 Joy-Con Drift: Will It Still Be a Problem?

Jul 8, 2025 FUNLAB-Cheriko

When the Nintendo Switch first launched in 2017, it quickly became a global sensation — but not without a few flaws. One of the most notorious? Joy-Con drift. This hardware issue, where joystick input registers movement even when untouched, became a headache for millions of players.

Now that the Nintendo Switch 2 is on the market with its new Joy-Con 2 controllers, fans and critics alike are asking: Has the Joy-Con drift problem finally been solved? In this article, we’ll explore what’s changed, what hasn’t, and how you can proactively protect your joystick hardware with accessories like thumb grips for Switch 2.

What Is Joy-Con Drift and Why Did It Happen?

Joy-Con drift refers to the analog stick’s unintended movement. Even when the user isn’t touching the joystick, the in-game character might move or the camera might pan slowly. It made precise movement in games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Splatoon frustrating.

Common Causes of Joy-Con Drift:

Dust and debris buildup beneath the joystick
Worn-out contact pads
Tension loss in the analog mechanism
Lack of protective joystick covers

What’s New in the Joy-Con 2?

The Joy-Con 2, redesigned for the Nintendo Switch 2, brings a few noticeable upgrades:

A slightly modified joystick mechanism with improved tension
More robust outer shell materials
Enhanced button layout and haptic feedback

However, Nintendo has not officially confirmed a full internal overhaul of the joystick component itself, leaving many to speculate: Is drift still lurking beneath the surface?

Is Joy-Con Drift Still a Risk on Switch 2?

While early reviews of the Switch 2 are positive, some users have already begun reporting minor drift symptoms, particularly those who game for hours daily. The issue may not be as severe as with the original Joy-Cons, but wear and tear are inevitable with regular use.

So, yes — Joy-Con drift on Switch 2 is still a potential issue, especially without preventative measures.

How to Prevent Joy-Con Drift on Switch 2

Whether you’re a casual gamer or a competitive Splatoon warrior, here are several ways to extend the life of your Joy-Con 2 joysticks:

1. Keep Controllers Clean

Dust, lint, and grime can slip beneath the joystick and disrupt movement. Wipe down your Joy-Con 2 regularly with a soft, dry cloth and store it in a clean case.

2. Avoid Excessive Force

Pushing the sticks to the edge too often or too hard increases internal stress. Be mindful during intense gameplay sessions.

3. Use Thumb Grips for Switch 2

Adding a protective thumb grip layer can:

Absorb shock from aggressive inputs
Prevent grime from entering the joystick base
Provide extra grip and comfort for long sessions

Why Thumb Grips Are the Best Drift Defense

One of the easiest and most affordable solutions for drift prevention is using Switch 2 thumb grips. Not only do they enhance your control and comfort, but they also create a physical buffer between your thumb and the analog stick.

🔥 Product Spotlight: FUNLAB Switch 2 Thumb Grips – Splash

Looking for a stylish and functional upgrade? The FUNLAB Splatoon Switch 2 Thumb Grips – Splash are more than just eye candy:

Compatible with Joy-Con 2
Inspired by Splatoon’s colorful aesthetic
Soft silicone absorbs pressure and keeps dust out
Offers better grip and joystick protection

Whether you're sniping in Splatoon 3 or drifting in Mario Kart World, these grips add just the right amount of tactile control and protection.

And, if you're a Kirby player, you can try another thumb grip: FUNLAB Switch 2 Thumb Grips - Puffy Pink.

Other Accessories That Help

If you're serious about protecting your Switch 2 investment, consider pairing thumb grips with:

Hard-shell carrying cases for dust and impact protection
Joystick covers for when not in use
Cleaning kits designed for portable gaming devices

Should You Worry About Joy-Con 2 Drift?

Let’s break it down:

Factor	Original Joy-Con	Joy-Con 2
Drift Reports	High	Low (so far)
Hardware Fixes	Limited	Slightly Improved
Dust Protection	Poor	Improved Housing
Still Needs Accessories?	Yes	Definitely

So while Joy-Con 2 does offer improvements, drift hasn’t been fully eliminated. Investing in preventive accessories like thumb grips is still highly recommended.

Conclusion: A Small Grip Can Make a Big Difference

Nintendo might have fine-tuned the Joy-Con design with Switch 2, but drift risks haven’t been fully erased. If you're planning to game hard and game often, don’t wait for drift to happen — prevent it from the start.

Installing something as simple as the FUNLAB Switch 2 Thumb Grips can keep your joystick responsive, protected, and stylish — a triple win for any serious gamer.