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

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Slide 1

eXtremeRate

eXtremeRate Clear Atomic Purple Joycon Handheld Controller Housing (D-Pad Version) with Full Buttons, DIY Replacement Shell Case for Nintendo Switch & Switch OLED Joy-Con – Console Shell NOT Included

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#1

Winner

10.0  score
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eXtremeRate

eXtremeRate Clear Atomic Purple Joycon Handheld Controller Housing (D-Pad Version) with Full Buttons, DIY Replacement Shell Case for Nintendo Switch & Switch OLED Joy-Con – Console Shell NOT Included

Compatibility: Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED Joy-Cons
Build Quality: Plastic Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Ergonomics: Ergonomic D-pad on left Joy-Con
Button Layout: Includes all necessary buttons
Additional Features: Matte clear purple, tools and screws

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Chosen by 1434 this week

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Slide 1

eXtremeRate

eXtremeRate Clear Atomic Purple Joycon Handheld Controller Housing (D-Pad Version) with Full Buttons, DIY Replacement Shell Case for Nintendo Switch & Switch OLED Joy-Con – Console Shell NOT Included

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#2
7.0  score
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HORI

Hori Nintendo Switch Split Pad Pro (Black) Ergonomic Controller for Handheld Mode - Officially Licensed By Nintendo

Compatibility: Nintendo Switch
Build Quality: robust
Ergonomics: ergonomic
Button Layout: well thought out
Additional Features: assignable rear triggers, Turbo functionality

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

eXtremeRate Clear Atomic Purple Joycon Handheld Controller Housing (D-Pad Version) with Full Buttons, DIY Replacement Shell Case for Nintendo Switch & Switch OLED Joy-Con – Console Shell NOT Included

10.0  score

eXtremeRate Clear Atomic Purple Joycon Handheld Controller Housing (D-Pad Version) with Full Buttons, DIY Replacement Shell Case for Nintendo Switch & Switch OLED Joy-Con – Console Shell NOT Included

eXtremeRate

10.0  score

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Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,434
Additional Features
Build Quality
Ergonomics

Most important from
1045 reviews

Additional Features
The transparent purple shells transform boring gray Joy-Cons into vibrant, unique controllers with colorful buttons that really stand out.
Build Quality
The build quality is impressive, featuring firm and solid plastic that feels far superior to cheaper alternatives.
Ergonomics
The ergonomic D-pad on the left Joy-Con offers an amazing upgrade over the original four-button layout, enhancing gameplay precision.

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.

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Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,434
Additional Features
Build Quality
Ergonomics

Most important from
1045 reviews

Additional Features
The transparent purple shells transform boring gray Joy-Cons into vibrant, unique controllers with colorful buttons that really stand out.
Build Quality
The build quality is impressive, featuring firm and solid plastic that feels far superior to cheaper alternatives.
Ergonomics
The ergonomic D-pad on the left Joy-Con offers an amazing upgrade over the original four-button layout, enhancing gameplay precision.
#2

Hori Nintendo Switch Split Pad Pro (Black) Ergonomic Controller for Handheld Mode - Officially Licensed By Nintendo

7.0  score

Hori Nintendo Switch Split Pad Pro (Black) Ergonomic Controller for Handheld Mode - Officially Licensed By Nintendo

HORI

7.0  score

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Rating
7.0
Build Quality
Ergonomics
Button Layout

Most important from
11202 reviews

Build Quality
The durability and build quality are impressive, with the controller enduring heavy use and physical impacts without significant damage.
Ergonomics
The controller's larger size not only enhances comfort but also provides protection to the Switch during accidental drops.
Button Layout
While the joysticks could benefit from added texture to prevent thumb slippage, this is a minor issue compared to the overall benefits.
Battery Life
The lack of built-in batteries can reduce playtime, as the controller relies on the Switch's power, leading to noticeable battery drain.
Connectivity
Despite the absence of wireless support, amiibo functionality, and other advanced features, the Split Pad Pro excels in providing a comfortable handheld gaming experience.
Additional Features
The programmable buttons and Turbo functionality add customization options, though some users may find them unnecessary.

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.

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Rating
7.0
Build Quality
Ergonomics
Button Layout

Most important from
11202 reviews

Build Quality
The durability and build quality are impressive, with the controller enduring heavy use and physical impacts without significant damage.
Ergonomics
The controller's larger size not only enhances comfort but also provides protection to the Switch during accidental drops.
Button Layout
While the joysticks could benefit from added texture to prevent thumb slippage, this is a minor issue compared to the overall benefits.
Battery Life
The lack of built-in batteries can reduce playtime, as the controller relies on the Switch's power, leading to noticeable battery drain.
Connectivity
Despite the absence of wireless support, amiibo functionality, and other advanced features, the Split Pad Pro excels in providing a comfortable handheld gaming experience.
Additional Features
The programmable buttons and Turbo functionality add customization options, though some users may find them unnecessary.

Buying Guide for the Best 3 Rd Party Joy Con

Choosing the right third-party Joy-Con for your Nintendo Switch can enhance your gaming experience significantly. It's important to consider various factors to ensure you get a product that meets your needs and preferences. Here are some key specifications to look at when selecting a third-party Joy-Con.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the Joy-Con works seamlessly with your Nintendo Switch. This is crucial because not all third-party controllers are guaranteed to work perfectly with every game or system update. Look for Joy-Cons that explicitly state they are compatible with the latest version of the Nintendo Switch. If you play a variety of games, ensure the controller supports all the features required by those games.
Build QualityBuild quality encompasses the materials used and the overall construction of the Joy-Con. High-quality materials and solid construction ensure durability and a comfortable gaming experience. Joy-Cons with better build quality tend to last longer and provide a more satisfying tactile feel. If you are a frequent gamer, opt for Joy-Cons made from robust materials with good reviews on their durability.
ErgonomicsErgonomics refers to how comfortable the Joy-Con is to hold and use over extended periods. This is important to prevent hand fatigue and ensure a pleasant gaming experience. Joy-Cons come in various shapes and sizes, so choose one that fits well in your hands. If you have larger hands, look for Joy-Cons with a more substantial grip. Conversely, if you have smaller hands, a more compact design might be preferable.
Button LayoutButton layout is the arrangement of buttons on the Joy-Con. A well-designed button layout can make gameplay more intuitive and enjoyable. Consider how the buttons are positioned and whether they are easy to reach and press. If you play games that require quick reflexes, ensure the button layout allows for fast and accurate inputs. Test different layouts to see which feels most natural to you.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the Joy-Con can be used before needing to be recharged. Longer battery life means less frequent charging and uninterrupted gaming sessions. If you often play for extended periods, look for Joy-Cons with a longer battery life. Check user reviews and product specifications to find controllers that offer the best battery performance.
ConnectivityConnectivity refers to how the Joy-Con connects to the Nintendo Switch, whether wirelessly or via a cable. Reliable connectivity ensures smooth gameplay without lag or disconnections. Wireless Joy-Cons offer more freedom of movement, while wired ones can provide a more stable connection. Choose based on your preference for mobility versus stability.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can include things like motion controls, vibration feedback, and programmable buttons. These features can enhance your gaming experience by providing more immersive and customizable gameplay. If you enjoy games that utilize motion controls or require precise inputs, look for Joy-Cons that offer these features. Consider what additional functionalities are important to you and choose accordingly.

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