How to Choose the Right Joy-Con for You

Your Guide to buying the best Joy-Con

Overview

The Joy-Con are a pair of motion-sensing controllers developed by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch, a home video gaming console. This buying guide will provide an overview of the features and specifications of the Joy-Con, as well as help you make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing the perfect Joy-Con setup for your gaming needs. Here, you will find information on the different types of Joy-Con, compatibility, and accessories available. Additionally, we will provide tips on the best ways to save money when purchasing the Joy-Con.

Key features

  1. Compatibility - Make sure the Joy-Con you purchase is compatible with your particular Nintendo console.
  2. Design - Consider whether you want traditional Joy-Con colors or if you would prefer special editions or custom colors.
  3. Functionality - Consider if you would like extra functions or options such as the motion-control enabled Joy-Con or the Pro controller.
  4. Price - Compare the price of different retailers and look out for any sales or deals.
  5. Accessories - Consider if you need any extra accessories such as a charging grip or a carrying case.

See the most popular Joy-Con on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Portability: Joy-Con is extremely portable, and can easily be taken with you wherever you go. They are small enough to fit in a pocket or bag, and attach easily to the Nintendo Switch console.
  • Versatility: Joy-Con offer a variety of different ways to play, from single-player to multiplayer, and from motion-sensing to button inputs. This makes them incredibly versatile and appealing to a wide range of gamers.
  • Durability: Joy-Con are made with a durable plastic material that is designed to withstand wear and tear. This makes them perfect for on-the-go gaming, as they are built to last through any situation.
  • Price: Joy-Con are available at a very reasonable price point, making them an affordable accessory for any Switch owner.
  • Ease of Use: Joy-Con are easy to use, and require minimal setup to get started. This makes them perfect for both casual and more experienced gamers.

Cons

  • Price: Joy-Con are relatively expensive, costing around $50 or more for a single controller.
  • Functionality: Joy-Con do not work with other gaming consoles and require a Nintendo Switch system to operate.
  • Lack of Rumble Feature: Joy-Con controllers do not have a rumble feature, which can make certain games less enjoyable.
  • Durability: Some users have experienced Joy-Cons breaking or having issues with buttons after a few months of use.
  • Connection Problems: Some users have experienced connection issues with the Joy-Cons, where they disconnect randomly or do not connect to the system at all.

Best alternatives

  1. Xbox One Wireless Controller - Official controller for the Xbox One console; features Bluetooth connectivity and can be used to play games on a PC.
  2. PS4 DualShock 4 Wireless Controller - Official controller for the PlayStation 4 console; features vibration feedback and motion sensors.
  3. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller - Official controller for the Nintendo Switch console; features HD Rumble, motion controls, and gyro controls.
  4. 8Bitdo SF30 Pro Wireless Bluetooth Gamepad - Third-party controller for the Nintendo Switch, featuring motion controls and programmable buttons.
  5. PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller - Third-party wireless controller for the Nintendo Switch, featuring motion controls and turbo functions.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Joy-Con Straps - removable straps that attach to the Joy-Con and give the user a better grip.
  • Joy-Con Grip - a controller accessory designed to hold both Joy-Con together for more traditional gaming.
  • Joy-Con Charging Dock - a device that charges up to four Joy-Con simultaneously.
  • Joy-Con Wheel - a plastic wheel that attaches to the Joy-Con and gives users a realistic driving experience.
  • Joy-Con Skin - a sticker or silicone coating that covers the Joy-Con and provides protection.
  • Joy-Con Case - a rigid or soft case designed to store and protect Joy-Con.
  • Joy-Con Battery Pack - an extra battery pack that attaches to the Joy-Con and provides extra power.

Common questions

  1. What are Joy-Con? Joy-Con are wireless controllers for the Nintendo Switch console. They are the primary input device for the console, and are used for playing games, navigating menus, and taking screenshots.
  2. What colors are available? Joy-Con are available in a variety of colors, including Neon Red, Neon Blue, Gray, and Neon Yellow.
  3. How long do the Joy-Con batteries last? TheJoy-Con batteries last up to 20 hours when fully charged.
  4. What types of features do the Joy-Con have? Joy-Con feature motion controls, HD Rumble, two analog sticks, two shoulder buttons, six face buttons, and a Capture button.
  5. Do Joy-Con come in sets? Yes, Joy-Con can be purchased in sets of two, which includes one left Joy-Con and one right Joy-Con.
  6. What is the difference between the standard Joy-Con and the Joy-Con with improved features? The Joy-Con with improved features has improved analog sticks and buttons as well as an improved D-Pad.
  7. Can Joy-Con be used wirelessly? Yes, Joy-Con can be used wirelessly for up to 30 feet.
  8. Do Joy-Con come with a warranty? Yes, Joy-Con come with a limited one-year warranty.

Trivia

Joy-Con controllers were once used in a live performance of the Super Mario Bros. theme song. During the performance, musician and YouTuber Braxton Burks combined modern instruments and a full orchestra to perfectly replicate the iconic theme song as Mario and Luigi ran and jumped across the stage, controlled by the two Joy-Con controllers. The performance was part of Nintendo’s celebration of the 35th anniversary of Super Mario Bros. and is an incredible example of the potential of Joy-Con controllers. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.