TLDR Review: PowerA Advantage Wired Controller for Nintendo Switch
Verdict
The PowerA Advantage Wired Controller for Nintendo Switch 2 is a solid, budget-friendly wired alternative to the official Pro Controller, delivering precise sticks and an excellent D-pad that fans of classic titles will love. Its mappable buttons and comfortable grip make it a smart pick for extended gaming sessions, though wired-only connectivity and lack of rumble or motion control are notable trade-offs. If you want wireless freedom or a true Pro Controller feel, this might not be your perfect match. Still, for a reliable, officially licensed controller with unique Pokémon-themed flair, this is a strong contender. If you’re looking for a controller with wireless support or rumble, you might want to wait for more third-party options to surface or consider the official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller instead.
- Top pro:
- Responsive sticks with no drifting issues make it a reliable second controller option.
- Top con:
- Wired-only with no wireless support or rumble feedback, limiting gameplay freedom.
Pros
- •Responsive sticks with no drifting issues make it a reliable second controller option.
- •Excellent D-pad, especially suited for classic NES-style games and platformers.
- •Comfortable and well-sized face buttons that offer no noticeable input lag.
- •Triggers feel well-placed and responsive, enhancing gameplay precision.
- •Mappable buttons provide quick access during games, with an easy setup process.
- •Hall Effect sticks offer smooth, accurate joystick performance typically found in more expensive controllers.
- •Comfortable grip suited for long gaming sessions without causing hand fatigue.
- •Offers great value as a third-party wired controller with near first-party quality.
- •Officially licensed with fun Pokémon Mega Evolutions artwork that looks even better in person.
- •Lightweight design that some users find less bulky than official Pro Controllers.
Cons
- •Wired-only with no wireless support or rumble feedback, limiting gameplay freedom.
- •Cannot wake the Switch 2 from sleep; requires manual console power button presses.
- •Home and system buttons are relocated to the bottom, which may feel awkward initially.
- •Longer joystick sticks require a wider range of motion, which may not suit everyone.
- •The feel of sticks and buttons differs noticeably from the official Switch 2 Pro Controller, which could disappoint if you're after an authentic experience.
- •Some users reported occasional glitches, stickiness during use, and rare connection losses.
- •Lightweight design may come across as cheap to those preferring a heftier controller feel.
- •Not as versatile or refined as PlayStation or Xbox controllers in terms of overall usability and premium feel.
- •Only works when connected via the included detachable cable to the Switch dock, no motion controls support.
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How we researched this
About this review: it summarizes the professional reviews and customer ratings ShopSavvy collected for this product, alongside prices from ShopSavvy's price data.
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