I’ve always been a fan of 8bitdo, which makes aesthetically retro, but modern and feature-rich gamepads for the Switch and the Switch 2 (with a firmware update.) The 8bitdo Ultimate is, as the name suggests, one of the brand’s more luxurious options: It features two customizable rear buttons, a PC-based configuration app to remap buttons and settings, and “hall effect” analog sticks, which use magnets rather than electrical resistance to track movement, which makes them more durable. It also comes with a slick charging dock, which helps make sure you keep the battery topped up.
One note: There is a newer version of the 8BitDo Ultimate–the 8BitDo Ultimate 2–which features two additional shoulder buttons between the standard bumpers and triggers, hall effect triggers, and other upgrades. Under normal circumstances, I’d steer you to the Ultimate 2, but at $50, even the Ultimate feels like a bargain. If you need a “Pro” controller, but don’t want to spend $85 on the Switch 2 Pro Controller, this is an affordable pick-up.
If you’re looking for a new controller and want to spend as little as possible, PowerA’s basic Switch gamepad is down to $30. In adorable Kirby-pink, this basic wireless gamepad features a stripped-down, gripless design. It relies on AA batteries for power, rather than a rechargeable battery: That’s not my preference, but has its advantages. (You never need to charge up. Just make sure you keep spare batteries handy.)
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SteelSeries has always been one of my favorite headset brands, and the brand has released Switch 2 firmware patches for the vast majority of its Switch-compatible headsets. The best deal on Prime Day I’ve seen is the Arctis Nova 7, a mid-tier, multi-platform wireless headset that generates crisp, clear sound for deep immersion in single-player experiences and precise detection in competition.
Do you need either of those things to play Mario Kart World? Not really, but I find that I have a better time in a headset if the sound quality is at least good enough to compare with my TV’s soundbar, so I will always steer you towards at least a mid-tier option. You can bring this headset to your PS5 and PC as well, you’re covered for almost every platform.
Don’t Forget About Games!
Just about a month after launch, everybody’s focused on the small and frankly expensive Switch 2 launch lineup: Here’s the thing, since the Switch 2 is cross-compatible, now is a great time to look for deals on Switch games, whether you’re playing them on Switch or Switch 2. There’s a giant library to check out, including 8 years of Nintendo exclusives. I’ve highlighted some of my favorites that are currently on sale.
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Nintendo Switch Game Deals (with Switch 2 Upgrades)
More Nintendo Switch Game Deals
Mike Epstein is a Senior Commerce Editor at Hearst Enthusiast Group, producing reviews for buying guides Popular Mechanics, Runner’s World, Bicycling, and Best Products. Prior to joining Hearst, he was a video game and technology critic for over 10 years, with bylines at IGN, Gamespot, Variety, Lifehacker, Kotaku, GamesRadar, Flavorwire and Digital Trends, among others. Now, he’s a jack of all trades, helping reviewers share everything they know about all kinds of technical gear, from snowblowers, to running shoes and bicycles, and every kind of gadget imaginable.
