3 Best 3 Rd Party Joy Con 2026 in the United States

The Hori Nintendo Switch Split Pad Pro is an officially licensed ergonomic controller designed for handheld mode on the Nintendo Switch. It offers a full-size controller experience with larger grips, buttons, triggers, analog sticks, and a D-pad, making it more comfortable for extended gaming sessions. The button layout is well thought out, and the assignable rear triggers and Turbo functionality add a layer of customization for enhanced gameplay.

Additionally, the Split Pad Pro can remain attached to the Switch while docked, which is convenient for seamless transitions between handheld and docked modes. However, it lacks a built-in battery, motion controls, and rumble features, which might be a drawback for some users. The build quality is robust, and the translucent black design gives it a sleek appearance.

With a solid customer rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 10,000 reviews, it's clear that many users appreciate its performance. This controller is particularly suited for gamers who prioritize comfort and customizable controls over advanced features like motion sensors and vibration feedback.

The eXtremeRate Clear Atomic Purple Joycon Housing is a custom replacement shell designed for Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED Joy-Cons, especially appealing for players who want a unique look and improved functionality. Its standout feature is the ergonomic D-pad on the left Joy-Con, which enhances gameplay for titles that rely heavily on directional inputs, making it a good choice for those games. Made from durable ABS plastic, the matte clear purple color adds personality beyond the standard gray Joy-Cons.

The build quality is solid for a third-party accessory, but keep in mind that this product is just a shell—it doesn’t include the electronic components, so you’ll need to transfer your existing parts. Installation isn’t plug-and-play; it requires some moderate DIY skills and patience, with detailed video guides available online to help. The package comes with all necessary buttons, tools, and spare screws, which is a nice bonus for those comfortable with small repairs.

Connectivity and battery life are dependent on your original Joy-Con parts, so this housing doesn’t affect those aspects. While it doesn’t add extra features beyond the D-pad upgrade, it’s a well-made option for anyone looking to refresh their Joy-Cons’ look and feel, provided they’re ready for the hands-on installation process.

The HORI Split Pad Pro Attachment Set offers a full-size controller experience for the Nintendo Switch, making it an attractive option for gamers looking for better ergonomics in handheld mode. Compatibility is excellent as it is officially licensed by Nintendo, ensuring seamless integration with the Switch. The larger grips, buttons, triggers, analog sticks, and D-Pad enhance comfort during extended gaming sessions, addressing the ergonomics and button layout effectively.

Build quality appears robust, contributing to its durability and reliability. The product also includes assignable rear triggers and turbo functionality, which are valuable features for competitive gaming. Additionally, the mic input for gaming audio and voice chat adds to the list of useful features. However, it lacks built-in battery functionality since it operates in handheld mode or as a wired controller when attached to the set, which might be a downside for those who prefer wireless options.

Connectivity is straightforward but limited to wired mode when using the attachment set. The item is relatively lightweight. If you prioritize ergonomics, build quality, and additional features in a handheld mode controller for the Nintendo Switch, this product is worth considering. However, if wireless connectivity and battery life are critical for you, you might need to explore other options.