Released in June 2025, the Nintendo Switch 2 is finally hitting its stride as more games and extra content continue to roll out. Alongside new titles like Donkey Kong Bananza, we’re also seeing a wave of "pro" controllers that trade the Joy-Con’s unique design for something more traditional.
Two of the most talked-about options are the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 and Nintendo’s own Switch 2 Pro Controller. Both, on paper, promise a premium experience, but which one is the better buy? This guide will help you decide.
8BitDo Ultimate 2 vs Switch 2 Pro Controller: Specs Comparison
Although they appear quite similar on the surface, the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 and Switch 2 Pro Controller are quite different when you look into their spec sheets. Here's how they compare:
Specs | 8BitDo Ultimate 2 | Switch 2 Pro Controller |
|---|---|---|
Price | $59.99 / £49.99 | $89.99 / £74.99 |
Connection | Wired, 2.4Ghz Wireless, Bluetooth | Wired, Bluetooth, NFC |
Compatibility | Switch 1/2, Windows, Android | Switch 2 |
Back Buttons | Yes (2) + R4/L4 buttons | Yes (2) |
Audio Jack | No | Yes |
Battery | 1000mAh (unspecified) | 1070mAh (Approx. 40 hours) |
Vibration | Rumble vibration | HD Rumble 2 |
Sensors | 6-axis motion control | Accelerometer, Gyroscope |
Sticks | TMR | No Hall Effect technology |
The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 also comes with a charging dock, which the Switch 2 Pro doesn't. However, speaking from personal experience, this isn't a make-or-break addition. The Switch 2 Pro is easy enough to charge with the USB-C cable; it just doesn't look as neat as a controller sat in a charging dock.
Now, when you compare the two side-by-side, it appears the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 is the superior gamepad, especially as it's quite a bit cheaper. However, there are elements of the Switch 2 Pro Controller that are purpose-built to get the most out of the Switch 2 console.
Having tried the Switch 2 Pro Controller, I know it's the little things like the dedicated "C" button to access GameChat, and its "wake console from sleep" ability that make it absolutely optimal for the Switch 2. The thing is, these don't necessarily make it worthy of its "Pro" title, begging the question, which is best in-game?
8BitDo Ultimate 2 and Switch 2 Pro Controller: In-Game Comparison
The Switch 2 Pro Controller is quite basic in terms of its gameplay-improving features, whereas the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 is more complete, particularly when it comes to features that can speed up your reaction times.
The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 includes:
- A faster 2.4GHz wireless connection
- Extra R4/L4 buttons, plus two back paddles
- Hall Effect triggers and non-linear tactile triggers
- The ability to save up to 3 custom profiles
- TMR joysticks for higher sensitivity, precision, and durability
- Customizable RGB, buttons, sticks, vibrations, triggers, and macros via 8BitDo Ultimate Software V2
With all of the above, the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 is a standout Switch 2 controller for gaming. For example, you can assign drift to a back paddle for quicker access and activation in Mario Kart World, or you can switch to the Hall Effect triggers for quicker shooting in Fortnite. This, and more, gives the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 an in-game advantage.
8BitDo Ultimate 2 vs Switch 2 Pro Controller: Which Should You Buy?
As mentioned in our Switch 2 Pro review, the controller is more of an evolution than a reinvention, which is perfectly reasonable. However, one of its biggest drawbacks is its price, with it costing far too much compared to rival third-party controllers out there; the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 included.
By comparison, the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 offers far more for less, and is perhaps better equipped for pro-level gameplay for those who want to play Mario Kart World, for example, at the very highest level.
With extra buttons and back paddles, customizable profiles, and Hall Effect triggers, it includes all the extras the Switch 2 Pro Controller lacks. And that $30 price difference really is a game-changer, especially when the Switch 2 console is already quite expensive.
For Gfinity, and me personally, I have to side with the 8BitDo Ultimate 2, simply because it's cheaper and offers more. Don't completely count out the Switch 2 Pro Controller, though, because it is Nintendo's official gamepad for the console, and it comes with some nice console-specific extras, like the dedicated "C" button and wake-from-sleep functionality, that most third-party controllers don't have.
Still, we recommend the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 out of the two, which is available to buy using the button below.