The Nintendo Switch 2 has arrived with exciting hardware upgrades, and among the biggest changes are its revamped controllers: the Joy-Con 2 and the Pro Controller 2. While both serve the same purpose—giving you control over your game—their experiences differ greatly in terms of ergonomics, button layout, battery life, and game compatibility.
Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore Switch 2 player, this guide will help you decide: Should you stick with Joy-Con 2 or upgrade to the Pro Controller 2?
🎮 What’s New in Joy-Con 2 and Pro Controller 2?
Both controllers have evolved from their predecessors, offering new features designed to support the Switch 2’s enhanced gaming capabilities.
| Feature | Joy-Con 2 | Pro Controller 2 |
| Grip Style | Modular, handheld-friendly | Ergonomic, full-size controller |
| New Buttons | GL/GR, C button (on charging grip) | GL/GR, dedicated C button, improved triggers |
| Connectivity | Wireless + attachable | Wireless only |
| Battery Life | ~25 hours (per Joy-Con) | ~30–35 hours |
| Vibration | HD Rumble 2 | HD Rumble 2 + motion sync |
| GameChat Support | Yes (via charging grip) | Yes (built-in mic & 3.5mm jack) |
| Use Case | Portable, tabletop multiplayer | Docked, competitive play |
🕹️ Ergonomics & Comfort
Joy-Con 2
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Pros: Lightweight, portable, perfect for handheld mode or quick tabletop sessions. Great for kids or small hands.
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Cons: Without the charging grip, individual Joy-Cons can feel awkward in vertical play. Long sessions may cause fatigue.
Pro Controller 2
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Pros: Contoured grips, larger buttons, and analog sticks offer greater comfort for long docked gaming sessions.
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Cons: Bulkier and not designed for handheld use. Doesn’t attach to the console.
Verdict: If you play docked or for extended periods, Pro Controller 2 wins in comfort. But if portability is your priority, Joy-Con 2 fits better.
🔋 Battery Life & Charging
The Pro Controller 2 offers a massive 30+ hours on a full charge and charges via USB-C. It’s a plug-and-forget setup—just charge overnight, and you’re good for a few days.
The Joy-Con 2, meanwhile, offers ~25 hours per unit and requires a charging grip or console reattachment to charge. This makes battery management trickier if you frequently use them detached.
Verdict: Pro Controller 2 takes the lead in power efficiency and convenience.
🎯 Controls & Gameplay Precision
Both controllers now feature the upgraded HD Rumble 2, with improved motion sensors and the addition of GL/GR rear buttons for advanced customization.
But here’s where they diverge:
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The Pro Controller 2 has a more accurate D-pad, better suited for platformers and fighting games.
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It also features a 3.5mm audio jack and a C button for GameChat, making it better for online multiplayer.
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Joy-Con 2 in standalone mode lacks these enhancements unless paired with the charging grip.
Verdict: Competitive and action gamers will appreciate the Pro Controller 2’s superior precision and button layout.
📦 Use Case Scenarios
When Joy-Con 2 is Better:
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Portable gaming on the go.
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Casual multiplayer—great for party games like Mario Kart World or Super Smash Bros.
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Games that require motion controls like Ring Fit Adventure or Switch Sports.
When Pro Controller 2 is Better:
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Single-player or online games like Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Metroid Prime 4, or Splatoon 3.
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Docked mode with a big-screen TV.
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Extended sessions require more precise controls and wrist comfort.
FUNLAB's plan
FUNLAB is working intensively on the development of the Pro grip specifically for Nintendo Switch 2.
And there is good news: FUNLAB's classic products (Firefly, Luminex, Luminous) are all Bluetooth-compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2, and they will continue to accompany you on your gaming journey.
If your budget is limited or you don't have a plan to replace your controller for the time being, you can continue to use FUNLAB's classic products.
If you want to know how to initially determine whether a Switch grip is compatible with Switch 2, you can refer to this article: Can I Use Switch Controller on Switch 2? Controller Compatibility Explain
🔄 What Do Players Say?
From Reddit and YouTube reviews:
“The new Pro Controller feels like an Xbox Elite. The triggers are way better now, and I love that audio jack.”
“Joy-Con 2 is just more versatile. I take it everywhere. But for long Zelda nights? Pro wins.”
User behavior shows: Hardcore and docked players choose Pro. Casual and hybrid users stick with Joy-Con.
💬 Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
| Player Type | Best Choice |
| Docked TV gaming | Pro Controller 2 |
| Handheld portable gaming | Joy-Con 2 |
| Multiplayer parties | Joy-Con 2 |
| Competitive action/RPG | Pro Controller 2 |
| Budget-conscious | Joy-Con 2 |
| All-around gamer | Both (if affordable) |
