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

> Expert answer about Nintendo Switch 2 controller compatibility

*Published: 2026-03-20 | Updated: 2026-03-19 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/answers/can-i-use-my-old-switch-joy-con-controllers-with-the-switch-2*

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## Product: Nintendo Switch 2
**Brand:** Nintendo

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](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Nintendo+Joy-Con&tag=shopsavvy0d-20) 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](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Nintendo+Switch+Pro+Controller&tag=shopsavvy0d-20), 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](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Ring+Fit+Adventure&tag=shopsavvy0d-20) has IR features. Certain [Nintendo Labo](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Nintendo+Labo&tag=shopsavvy0d-20) 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.

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*Where this comes from: This answer is based on ShopSavvy's product database, real-time pricing from thousands of retailers, and analysis of user reviews to give you a well-rounded picture.*