Switch 1 controllers are not compatible with Switch 2

Nintendo Switch 1 controllers—both Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers—will not work with Switch 2. The new console uses a different wireless protocol and controller design, so your existing controllers cannot connect to or function on the new hardware. You will need to purchase new controllers separately if you want to use Switch 2.

This is a significant change from previous Nintendo console transitions. When the original Switch launched in 2017, it was the first Nintendo home console to use wireless controllers as standard, and those controllers remained proprietary to that system. Switch 2 breaks compatibility entirely, meaning your investment in Switch 1 controllers does not carry forward.

Key Takeaways

  • Switch 1 Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers will not connect to or work with Switch 2 due to different wireless technology.
  • You will need to purchase new controllers designed specifically for Switch 2 if you want to play on the new console.
  • Nintendo has not announced whether third-party controller manufacturers will produce compatible alternatives at launch.
  • If you own multiple Switch 1 controllers, they remain fully functional on your original Switch console.

What makes Switch 2 controllers different

Switch 2 uses a new wireless standard that is incompatible with the Bluetooth protocol that Switch 1 controllers rely on. The physical connector and internal hardware are also different, so even if you could somehow force a connection, the controller would not function properly. Nintendo designed the new system from the ground up with its own controller ecosystem.

The new controllers have been redesigned with larger grips, improved haptic feedback, and refined button layouts based on five years of player feedback. These hardware improvements required a complete redesign of the wireless communication system, which is why backward compatibility was not possible.

How many new controllers you might need to buy

Switch 2 comes with two controllers included in the box, similar to the original Switch. If you want additional controllers for multiplayer games or to have backups, you will need to purchase them separately. Nintendo typically sells individual controllers and controller pairs at standard retail prices, though exact pricing has not been confirmed for Switch 2 controllers at launch.

If you plan to play with more than two people regularly, budget for at least one additional controller pair. Many Switch 1 owners found that having four controllers total (two pairs) covered most multiplayer scenarios without excessive spending.

What happens to your Switch 1 controllers

Your existing Switch 1 controllers remain fully compatible with your original Switch console. You can continue using them on Switch 1, Switch 1 Lite, and Switch OLED without any issues. The controllers will not suddenly stop working when Switch 2 launches—they are tied to the original hardware, not to a broader Nintendo ecosystem.

If you own a collection of Switch 1 controllers and plan to keep your original console, you have no reason to replace them. They will work exactly as they do now for as long as you own the Switch 1 hardware.

Third-party controller options for Switch 2

Nintendo has not announced whether third-party manufacturers like 8BitDo, PowerA, or Hori will produce controllers compatible with Switch 2 at launch. Historically, third-party controller makers have released alternatives for Nintendo consoles, often at lower price points than official controllers. However, this depends on Nintendo providing the technical specifications and licensing agreements that allow third parties to build compatible hardware.

If you want to avoid buying multiple official controllers, it may be worth waiting a few months after Switch 2 launches to see what third-party options become available. Many players prefer third-party controllers for specific features like programmable buttons, different grip styles, or lower cost.

Should you buy extra Switch 1 controllers before Switch 2 launches

There is no practical reason to stock up on Switch 1 controllers in preparation for Switch 2. They will not work on the new console, and if you already own enough for your Switch 1 needs, buying more serves no purpose. The only scenario where this makes sense is if you plan to sell your Switch 1 controllers to another person—in that case, having extras might increase their resale value slightly.

Your money is better spent waiting until Switch 2 launches and seeing what controller options are available at that time. You may find third-party alternatives that suit your needs better than official controllers, or you may prefer to wait for price drops on official controllers after the initial launch period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Switch 1 Pro Controller on Switch 2 if I update the firmware?

No. Firmware updates cannot change the wireless protocol or physical hardware that allows controllers to communicate with a console. The incompatibility is at the hardware level, not the software level, so no update will make Switch 1 controllers work with Switch 2.

Will my Switch 1 controllers work on any other Nintendo console?

Switch 1 controllers are exclusive to the Switch 1 family of consoles (Switch, Switch Lite, Switch OLED). They do not work with Nintendo 3DS, Wii U, or any other Nintendo hardware. They are also not compatible with PC or other gaming platforms without third-party adapters, which may not work reliably.

Is there any way to use Switch 1 controllers on Switch 2 with an adapter?

Nintendo has not released or announced any adapter that would allow Switch 1 controllers to work with Switch 2. Third-party adapters may eventually exist, but they would face significant technical challenges due to the different wireless protocols, and Nintendo may not support them officially.

How much will new Switch 2 controllers cost?

Nintendo has not announced official pricing for Switch 2 controllers. Historically, Nintendo Switch 1 Pro Controllers retail for around $70, and Joy-Con pairs sell for around $80. Switch 2 controller pricing will likely be similar, but you should wait for official announcements closer to launch.