Nintendo unveiled all the exciting details about the Switch 2 during its April Direct, and since then, fans have eagerly awaited the opening of preorders in the U.S. While the console's price was somewhat expected, the cost of first-party Switch 2 games at launch, especially Mario Kart World at $80, raised some eyebrows. Additionally, Nintendo introduced a new line of Switch 2 accessories that have seen price hikes compared to their original Switch counterparts, with prices increasing even further since the initial announcement.

The only Switch 2 accessory that caught my attention was the new Switch 2 Pro controller, now priced at a hefty $85. As someone who already owns multiple Switch Pro controllers, the thought of having to purchase a new version was not appealing. Fortunately, Nintendo confirmed in a developer interview that the original Switch Pro controller will be compatible with the Switch 2, providing some relief.

Where You Can Still Buy Switch Pro Controllers

Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

Not the Switch 2 version.
See it at Walmart
See it at Target
See it at Best Buy

While many may opt for the new Switch 2 Pro controller, it's not necessary for most games. If you already own a Switch Pro controller, you can stick with it and save the $80 for new games. For those without a Pro controller and planning to buy the Switch 2, the standard Switch Pro controller remains a more affordable option at $69.99.

There's a chance that these older controllers might sell out before the Switch 2 hits the market to make way for the new version. Amazon currently has a significant stock shortage and only offers third-party alternatives. Alongside compatibility with the regular Switch Pro controller, Nintendo has also confirmed that the original Joy-Con controllers will work with the Switch 2, though we generally recommend the Switch Pro controller for most games due to its superior feel and functionality.

When Will the Switch 2 Pro Controller Be Available?

If your main focus is on getting the new Switch 2 Pro controller, you'll need to wait until the console's launch. The new controller will be available on June 5, coinciding with the Switch 2's release. Preorders for the new console, and likely its official accessories, will start on April 24. However, the Switch 2 Pro controller is exclusively compatible with the Switch 2 and cannot be used with the standard Switch.

Listings for the Switch 2 Pro controller have already started appearing at Walmart and Best Buy, though without a specific preorder date. Walmart also features listings for the Switch 2 games that you'll soon be able to preorder.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller

Preorder listing only
$79.00 at Walmart