If you usually play Nintendo Switch in handheld mode, it is possible that in less than half an hour you already have some pain in your hands. The Joy-Con are interesting and versatile controls, but they are not the best companions when we want to play the console during long sessions. Luckily, there are many options on the market that will allow you to use your Nintendo Switch in a more ergonomic way. If you are looking for a replacement for your small Joy-Cons to play in handheld mode, stick around to discover the better ergonomic controls for Nintendo's hybrid console.
What is an ergonomic controller?
Normally, we refer by this term to all controls that are designed to be more comfortable in the hand. However, in the field of the Nintendo Switch, the ergonomic controls are almost a category. This is the name given to any device that replaces the Joy-Con and allows manage the console in a more comfortable way.
They are usually much larger than the Joy-Con, they are attached to the console by the same rail and have some relief on the back so that the hand can rest correctly. Some usually have others extra features, such as turbo mode, different vibration modes, lights...
Who are these controls for?
Ergonomic controls can be a great alternative for you depending on various factors. if you have the Big hands, it is possible that playing in handheld mode with the Joy-Con seems really uncomfortable, quickly experiencing pain in the arch between the thumb and the index finger of the right hand.
On the other hand, these products are also very interesting If you play the Switch only in portable mode. If you rarely undock your Joy-Cons, then your best bet is to get one of these controllers.
And finally, there is the issue of "drift». It is well known that Nintendo laptop controllers have serious problems with analog sticks, which give a false input, causing the character or the camera in your video games to move without you touching the controller. If it has happened to you, the best thing you can do is get one of these controls, as buying another set of Joy-Cons will not guarantee that the problem will not occur again in the future.
The best ergonomic controllers for Nintendo Switch
These are the most interesting models that you can currently purchase.
HORI Split Pad Pro
This is possibly the best known model of all that we are going to see today, but not necessarily the best. HORI has officially licensed by Nintendo, and you can buy this controller with different franchise designs from the Big N company.
The HORI Split Pad Pro is very ergonomic. It is of good quality and feels solid to the touch. When you grab them, it feels like you're holding a Pro controller, but in handheld mode. The sticks are taller than the original Joy-Cons and, although they are much bulkier, you will be able to attach the console to its charging base without problem. Also has programmable buttons and turbo mode. However, it has some negative points that we have to highlight. First of all, it doesn't have gyroscopes, so you're going to lose functionality in some titles. On the other hand, it does not have vibration either.
Depending on the customization you are looking for, you will find this model with different prices. He basic model it costs around 45 euros, while some cost 10 euros more for carrying motifs from Pokémon, Monster Hunter, Zelda and other franchises.
View offer on AmazonFinally, they sell it too to un charging accessory, which can also be interesting if you want to load controllers outside of the console.
View offer on AmazonMobaPad M6
Su design es similar to HORI, and when grasping it, the sensation is similar to that of holding a xbox mando. You are not going to have any problems when connecting the console to the Dock with the MobaPads connected, either, since they will not collide.
MobaPads come with two magnetic shells, one dark gray and one white. Also, their switches are mechanics. The feeling is a bit strange when you first press the buttons, but you'll get used to it quickly. This keypad will not only give you a greater feedback when playing games, but it will also guarantee a longer useful life of the device. On the other hand, the MobaPads do They have vibration and gyroscope. Of course, we must highlight something about the vibration, and that is that it is tremendously exaggerated. You will not be able to play discreetly or putting it to a minimum. Its ergonomics are also very good and it also has programmable and turbo modes. Another negative point is that they are somewhat difficult to find. If you are interested, it is best to search AliExpress. They cost less than 60 euros, being a much better alternative than the HORI.
FR-TEC Pro Gaming Controller
The FR-TEC controls are also an alternative to the HORI, but they have quite a few points where they are different. Instead of being coupled, the FR-TEC controller is made up of a housing in which we will fit the console. It's covered protect the edges of the tablet while preventing scratches on the back of the Nintendo Switch. Another interesting factor of this model is that it allows swap joysticks by others that are more suited to our tastes in size or height.
The grip of this command has texture, allowing greater support even if there is sweat involved, as well as greater weight, which is perhaps its most negative point. It also has a gyroscope and its own vibration system. What it does not have is NFC, something that only official Nintendo controllers have so far. Its price is quite cheap and you can find it regularly about 50 euros.
View offer on AmazonNYXI Joy-Pad
This latest model is undoubtedly the most complete of all, as it combines the best of ergonomic controls with the best of Joy-Con. The NYXI Joy-Pad has integrated battery 500mAh. This means that once attached to the console, they can be used like a Joy-Con. It has its own vibration motor y gyroscope 6 axis. You can also use turbo mode and remap buttons. As if that weren't enough, the NYXI Joy-Pad has its own led lights that you can customize to your liking. They also have their own charging base, very similar to the accessory that the Switch brings for the Joy-Cons, but with the possibility of connecting the cable.
View offer on AmazonThis post includes affiliate links to the Amazon website. Output may receive a commission when purchases are made through them. However, the decision to include them has been made freely, based on editorial criteria and without responding to any type of request from the brands mentioned.