11 Best Third-Party Joy-Cons for Nintendo Switch 2023
As a gamer, the controllers that you use determine whether you will come out victorious or lose the game.
This also applies when using a Nintendo Switch, so it would be wise to invest in high-quality Joy-Cons.
Nevertheless, buying original Nintendo Joy-Cons can be a bit expensive, especially if you are working on a tight budget.
The good news, however, is that you can save a few bucks by buying 3rd party Joy-Cons for your Nintendo Switch.
3rd party Joy-Cons are just as reliable as the original pair that the Switch console came with, so you can buy them knowing that you will get the same gaming experience.
In fact, some of these controllers have additional features that you won’t find on original Nintendo joypads.
To help you in choosing the right controller, the review list below highlights some of the 3rd party Joy-Cons for Nintendo that you can use as a replacement for the original joypads.
11 Best 3rd Party Joy-Cons for Nintendo Switch
1. ESYWEN Joy Pad Controller for Nintendo Switch
No products found.The joypad controllers from Esywen can be an excellent replacement for your original Nintendo Joy-Cons.
These controllers provide you with a long list of features that will assist you greatly when playing Mario Kart, Splatoon 2, Zelda, Mario Odyssey, or any other arcade game that you like.
The Joy-Cons can as well be used when playing action games. Since the controllers have a turbo function, you can program any of the buttons in the ‘A/B/X/Y/L/ZL/R/ZR’ category to be your turbo button.
There is also a macro feature that will help you assign the functions of several buttons to the M button.
That way, all the important buttons will always be at your fingertips, allowing for smooth and easy control of game characters.
Consequently, this will increase your reaction time, thus lowering your chances of losing the game.
The back of each controller is contoured to give you a comfortable grip when playing. You can also attach the controllers to the grip stand when playing by yourself.
When it comes to connectivity, these Joy-Cons offer stable and fast wireless connection. As such, at no time will the game freeze due to poor signal reception.
The motors will deliver powerful vibrations that will make you feel like you are part of the game.
For your convenience, all the buttons are strategically placed to give you direct access to the function that you need.
Pros
- Have a macro function
- Customizable
- Multi-mode
Cons
- No infrared function
2. KDD Joy Controller Compatible with Nintendo
No products found.Designed with every gamer’s needs in mind, these Joy-Cons may just be what you need to take your gaming skills to the next level.
Featuring built-in vibration motors, the controllers will provide you with a thrilling shock experience when playing your favorite games.
The controllers have a plug-and-play design for user convenience, so you won’t have a hard time connecting them to your switch console.
Like the original Nintendo Joy-Cons, these controllers have a remote-wake function that will make your work easier.
Fitted with six-axis gyro sensors, these Joy-Cons will provide you a realistic gaming experience when playing motion-sensing games.
Furthermore, these Joy-Cons are the same size as the original controllers, so you won’t have to buy new grips.
Additionally, they are compatible with other Nintendo accessories, meaning that you won’t have to change the charging dock, customized skins, or the wrist straps.
Also, each device can work as a standalone controller, making them even better. This means that you will be able to make independent right or left motion controls without experiencing any problem with either of the controllers.
Plus, you won’t have to install additional drivers or software to use these Joy-Cons. All upgrades can be made via console, so you won’t have to source elsewhere.
Each controller is fitted with a 525mAh lithium-ion battery to maximize your game time. When fully charged, the batteries will provide you with approximately fifteen hours of gaming time.
You can juice up the batteries through the switch console or by using the charging dock. Both options will provide you with good results, so you can use either.
Pros
- Great D-pads
- Automatic pairing
- Precision designed joystick
Cons
- The vibrations may be too intense for some users
3. ALIENGT Wireless Joypad Controller for Nintendo Switch
If you are looking for a replacement for your Nintendo Joy-Cons, the remote controllers from Aliengt is one of the high-quality options that you can consider buying.
These high-performance joypads will provide you with a frustration-free gaming experience, so you can purchase them without worrying about anything. Moreover, they are uniquely designed to give gamers full control over the game.
The controllers come with an M-shaped frame, which will allow you to link both Joy-Cons to form a pro controller. This feature can particularly come in handy when gaming in TV mode.
To add to this, these controllers support handheld gaming mode and tabletop mode. When using the former, you should consider attaching the joypads to your switch console.
The latter, on the other hand, enables you to use each controller independently, so you can even play games with your family and friends using the same screen.
Unlike the original Nintendo Joy-Cons, these controllers feature a turbo burst function. The batteries in these joypads will provide you with an extended game time of between 10-12 hours.
However, this will only apply if the batteries are fully charged prior to gaming. The other feature that you will like is the advanced macro function, which allows users to program the macro button according to their gaming needs.
Through this, you’ll be able to customize the M button to match the requirements of the game that you are playing.
As a result, you will be able to define the functions of multiple buttons to the M button. This will not only increase your chance of coming out victorious in the game but will also simplify button operations.
Pros
- Ergonomically designed
- Dual motor design
- Supports wireless connectivity
Cons
- No amiibo function
4. JALVDE Wireless Joypad Controller for Nintendo Switch
This pair of Joy-Cons can work independently, but you can also use them as a single control unit when playing games on your Nintendo switch.
They are just as efficient as the original pair, so you won’t have any compatibility issues. Both the left and right controllers feature a 360° joystick, which will give you maximum control when playing arcade games.
The materials used in designing these controllers are exceptionally lightweight, meaning that your hands won’t get fatigued easily even if you play for long hours.
Also, the built-in gyro sensors are very responsive, so each move that you make with the controller will match the response on the screen.
Additionally, the controllers are color-coded for identification purposes, so there will be no mix up when playing with your friend.
These Joy-Cons will automatically pair with the Nintendo Switch console once a connection has been made.
If you prefer gaming using the handheld mode, then you will be happy to know that you can effortlessly dock each controller on the side of the switch console without using additional accessories.
These joypad controllers can work with virtually all Nintendo consoles. Besides, they have all the features that original controllers have, so you can rest assured that they will give you the control that you need.
It won’t matter whether you are playing a shooting or racing game, these Joy-Cons will get the job done.
Pros
- Long battery life
- Anti-interference ability,
- Multi-function support
Cons
- Does not have an NFC function
5. KINVOCA C25 Joy Pad Controller for Nintendo Switch
Precision matters a lot when choosing a controller, and that is exactly what this unit offers. With the help of the macro function, gamers can program the buttons to match their needs.
This will enable you to use the M button when performing multiple functions when playing games. The macro function can also help you record time intervals in the game.
In addition to this, you can make use of the turbo function when playing shooting games. According to the manufacturer, the turbo function can provide you with up to 25 shots per second, thereby allowing you to overwhelm the enemy.
There are also other advanced features that will give you access to useful functions when playing different games.
The joysticks have a convenient concave design and are also ridged along the edges to prevent slippage.
Plus, the controllers have inbuilt motion sensors, which are specially designed to boost your gaming experience.
The 300mAh batteries in these controllers require up to two hours to reach the full charge capacity and will provide you with ten hours of game time.
Also, the triggers are not only large but also responsive, so users won’t have a hard time manipulating the functions.
Pros
- Dual vibration
- Easy to hold
- Plug-and-play design
Cons
- No HD rumble
6. THAVENFLY Joy-Con Controller for Nintendo Switch
No products found.Built from high-quality ABS material, these controllers are as durable as they come. Like the Joy-Cons that we have already looked at, you can use these controllers independently or as a pair.
Since they have a dual vibration design, you will experience the shock effect from each controller.
The six-axis somatosensory function will provide you with an amazing gaming experience when playing racing games and other motion-sensing games.
And because each unit has its sensor and accelerometer, you will be able to make an independent left or right motion control.
These Joy-Cons are designed just like the original Nintendo controllers, so you will have access to all the features that you may need to win your game.
Thanks to the dual charging system, you can juice up the batteries via the micro USB port or through the console. Ensure that you use a type-C connector when charging the batteries using the switch console.
The controllers are Bluetooth-enabled, so you can connect them wirelessly to your Nintendo switch.
Pros
- Humanized design
- Innovatively designed
- User-friendly
Cons
- Does not support amiibo
7. Vivefox Wireless Switch Joy Con Controller
Featuring both macro and turbo function, the Joy-Con controllers by Vivefox will greatly increase your chances of winning the game.
With that said, you will be able to program the buttons to give you quick access to the game functions. These Joy-Cons are compatible with Nintendo Switch consoles and switch lite.
Furthermore, they have the same set of buttons as the original joypads, so you won’t experience any problem when using these controllers.
You can easily set up these Joy-Cons using the wireless function. The controllers have a strong anti-interference design, so the signal won’t drop while you are playing.
In fact, you will achieve a stable connection in a matter of seconds when working with compatible devices.
Each Joy-Con features an auto-sleep mode, which will help you prolong battery life. When it comes to user comfort, the grip area is ergonomically designed to reduce user fatigue.
As such, all your fingers will have a place to rest when gaming. These controllers provide you with up to four-play modes that you can use.
But, that is not all; you can even use these joypads when they in a horizontal position. By using these devices, you can easily share the screen with your friends, thus allowing you to have even more fun.
Pros
- Vibration feedback
- Wide compatibility
- Two-way charging system
Cons
- Lacks the NFC function
8. Tenvoonl Switch Joy-Pad Controller
Are your Nintendo Joy-Cons giving you a hard time while gaming? If your answer is yes, then maybe it’s time you replaced them with these high-quality controllers from Tenvoonl.
These joypads are specially designed for switch consoles, so they won’t require you to download any drivers.
Moreover, they are designed with advanced features that will give you complete control of the switch and all its functions.
Talking of features, these Joy-Cons have a wake-up function, which will allow you to awaken your switch with the push of a button.
All you have to do is press the button with the ‘H’ symbol for 1 to 2 seconds. The right and left controllers can work separately, meaning that you can engage your friends in a multiplayer combat game.
If you like, you can also dock the controllers onto the switch console when playing solo missions.
The back of each joypad is convex-shaped to increase palm comfort, especially when gaming for extended durations.
Both controllers are equipped with 400mAh batteries, which are rechargeable. A single charge can provide you with up to ten hours’ worth of game time.
The inbuilt 6-axis somatosensory will give you a gaming experience that is not only thrilling but also accurate.
Pros
- Comfortable in the hands
- High performance
- Well designed
Cons
- No macro function
9. SADES C800 Joy-Con for Nintendo
No products found.The Sades C800 has amazing features that will provide you with an enhanced gaming experience.
These controllers have a humanized design to increase user comfort. This means that they will allow you to play for as long as you want without getting overly fatigued.
Besides, the buttons are arranged in such a way that you can reach all the key functions without straining.
Depending on your preference, you can use these Joy-Cons independently or as a single game controller.
The controllers have both motion control and vibration functions, hence providing you with realistic game effects.
Aside from that, the right and left joypads both support gyro functions and also have other special features that will maximize your performance when gaming.
For instance, the right controller supports the NFC function, so you will have quick access to amiibo characters.
You can easily wake-up your switch console by simply using the Home button. The two controllers come with a micro USB cable that you can use when charging the batteries.
More to this, the buttons are conveniently shaped to minimize slippage. The A button, in particular, is oversized, so you will have an added advantage when playing arcade and action games.
Also, the controllers are curved on both sides to give you a firm and comfortable grip. Coming from a manufacturer that has been designing controllers for over two decades, you can go for these Joy-Cons without worrying about quality.
Pros
- Convenient GameCube design
- Ergonomic design
- Strong vibration
Cons
- No IR sensor
10. Kinvoca Joy Pad Controller for Nintendo Switch
These Joy-Cons have all the features that a gamer may need to accomplish a given task when using a Nintendo switch.
For starters, they support fast and stable wireless connection, so you won’t experience any challenge when pairing the controllers with your Switch console.
Each controller features a precision designed joystick that will provide you with accurate control input while minimizing delays. As a result, you will have full control over your game character.
Additionally, the two joypads are both fitted with a gyroscope and an accelerometer to give users a compelling experience when gaming. When using these Joy-Cons, you can either play sideways or vertically.
Thanks to their streamlined design, you will have a place to rest both your palms and fingers. This will not only keep your hands comfortable but will also allow you to play for long hours.
The rechargeable batteries in these devices can last for ten hours provided that you charge them to full capacity before starting the game. However, the batteries will last even longer if you disable the vibration function.
You can easily recharge the batteries via the switch console. Alternatively, you can use the micro USB charge function.
Pros
- No lag
- Comes with a user manual
- Have a screenshot function
Cons
- Cannot wake the switch console wirelessly
11. Proslife Wireless Joypad Controller for Nintendo Switch
No products found.The Joy-Cons from Proslife have the same layout as the original Nintendo switch controllers, so you won’t have a hard time mastering the controls.
Besides, each controller is fitted with a complete set of buttons, thereby allowing gamers to use the joypads separately or as a pair.
In addition to this, the 360° joysticks will provide you with precision control when playing different categories of games.
And the fact that they have an auto-connect function means you can connect these controllers to the Nintendo Switch without downloading additional software.
When in handheld mode, these Joy-Cons can awaken the host from sleep mode, thus making them even more convenient.
Aside from the handheld mode, there are two additional modes that you can consider using when gaming with your friends.
Plus, there is a screenshot capture button that will allow you to save and share memorable victory moments in the game. The same button can also be used to capture videos, and all you have to do is to long-press it.
Attached to each Joy-Con is a wrist strap that will prevent accidental falls. When it comes to ergonomics, the controllers are curved at the back to keep the user’s hands comfortable while gaming.
Pros
- Performs well
- Have advanced function
- Strong compatibility
Cons
- No rumble feature
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Nintendo Switch work with 3rd Party Joy-Cons?
Yes. But, this will depend on whether the Joy-Cons in question are compatible with your Nintendo Switch.
However, most joypads are compatible with switch consoles, so you just have to ensure that you choose the right pair.
Are 3rd Party Joy-Cons any good?
Most 3rd party Joy-Cons have the same features as the original Nintendo controllers, so they will give you access to all game functions without experiencing lags.
In addition to this, 3rd party Joy-Cons have the same button layout, meaning that you won’t have any problems with the controls. That said, they can make a good replacement for Nintendo Joy-Cons.
Do all 3rd Party Joy-Cons support the amiibo function?
No. Some Joy-Cons don’t have built-in NFC readers, so they cannot give you access to amiibo characters.
Final Verdict
You can increase your performance when gaming by using any of the 3rd party Joy-Cons that we have reviewed in the above list.
The controllers that we have handpicked have a plug-and-play design, so you can easily pair them with your Nintendo switch without relying on additional drivers.
Additionally, they are ergonomically designed to ensure that you get the comfort that you need when gaming.
