Nintendo unveiled all the exciting details about the Switch 2 during its April Direct, and we've been eagerly awaiting the start of preorders in the U.S. While the price of the new console wasn't a huge surprise, the cost of first-party Switch 2 games at launch certainly raised some eyebrows. The most notable example is Mario Kart World, which will retail for a hefty $80 at launch. Additionally, Nintendo is introducing a new line of Switch 2 accessories that have seen price hikes compared to the original Switch, and these prices have increased even further since the initial announcement.

The only accessory from the new lineup that caught my attention was the Switch 2 Pro controller, now priced at an astonishing $85. As someone who already owns multiple Switch Pro controllers, I was relieved to hear from Nintendo's developer interview that the original Switch Pro controller will be compatible with the Switch 2.

Where You Can Still Buy Switch Pro Controllers

Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

Not the Switch 2 version. See it at Walmart | See it at Target | See it at Best Buy

While many might opt for the new Switch 2 Pro controller, it's not essential for most games. If you already own a Switch Pro controller, you can save $80 by sticking with it and spending that money on new games instead. For those without a Pro controller and planning to get the Switch 2, the standard Switch Pro controller remains a more affordable option at $69.99.

There's a chance these older controllers might sell out before the Switch 2 hits the market to make way for the new model. Amazon is already experiencing a significant shortage of stock, offering only third-party alternatives. Besides compatibility with the regular Switch Pro controller, Nintendo has confirmed that the original Joy-Con controllers will also work with the Switch 2, though we generally recommend the Switch Pro controller for most gaming experiences.

When Will the Switch 2 Pro Controller Be Available?

If your heart is set on the new Switch 2 Pro controller, you'll need to wait until the console launches. The new controller will be available starting on June 5, coinciding with the Switch 2's launch date. Preorders for the new console, along with the official accessories, are expected to begin on April 24. However, keep in mind that the Switch 2 Pro controller will only be compatible with the Switch 2, not the original Switch.

Listings for the Switch 2 Pro controller have already appeared at Walmart and Best Buy, although without a specific preorder date. Walmart also has listings for upcoming Switch 2 games that you can soon preorder.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller

Preorder listing only. $79.00 at Walmart