Can I use my old Switch Joy-Con controllers with the Switch 2?

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Good news: your old Joy-Cons work with the Switch 2. You just can't snap them onto the sides of the console anymore.

Different Attachment, Same Wireless

The Switch 2 switched from rails to magnets for attaching Joy-Cons. Your original Joy-Cons were designed for the rail system, so they won't physically click into place. But wirelessly? They pair just like before.

Go to System Settings, then Controllers & Sensors, then Change Grip/Order. Hit the sync button on your old Joy-Cons, and you're connected.

Your Pro Controller Works Too

If you have a Switch Pro Controller, it's also compatible. Pair it wirelessly or plug it into the dock with a USB cable. The only quirk: it can't wake the console from sleep mode like the new controllers can. Minor inconvenience.

Don't Ditch Those Old Controllers Yet

Here's the thing. The new Joy-Con 2 is missing the IR Motion Camera that the original Joy-Con (R) had. Most people never used it, but some games actually require it. Ring Fit Adventure has IR features. Certain Nintendo Labo kits need it.

If you play any of those games, you'll need your old Joy-Cons connected wirelessly. Keep them around.

Mixing and Matching

You can connect up to eight controllers at once. Old Joy-Cons, new Joy-Con 2s, Pro Controllers, even third-party Bluetooth gamepads. Mix and match however you want for multiplayer sessions.