PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller
Good:
- Wide range of designs from popular Nintendo franchises and more
- Supports motion controls and mappable buttons
- Comfortable ergonomic design is extremely similar to Switch Pro Controller
The bad:
- Build quality feels cheap compared to other brands
- Uses two AA batteries, non-rechargeable (unless you use your own rechargeable batteries)
- No HD, IR or Amiibo NFC rumble support
The PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller is an honorable mention when discussing alternatives to the Switch Pro controller. While it can’t stand up to the build quality and customization of the Pro 2, this controller is a good alternative to PDP’s Faceoff Deluxe+ if you’re looking for a wireless option. PowerA has outdone itself when it comes to the range of designs available for the Enhanced Wireless Controller, with bold and striking designs themed around Nintendo franchises and other popular series, from Mario and Zelda to Cuphead, Spyro and The Witcher. Priced at $50, you’ll often find great deals on older models on Amazon as well.
In terms of construction, the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller is simply lacking compared to some other controllers on this list. It feels lighter and cheaper than the Pro Controller, the thumbsticks are slightly taller, and the D-pad is slightly more forward. Overall, the controller looks and feels quite similar to the first-party option with a comfortable, ergonomic design and a standard button. layout, but it lacks that premium feel. You get two mappable rear buttons and support for motion controls, but no HD rumble, IR, or Amiibo NFC. Finally, this model runs on AA batteries and cannot be recharged like the Pro Controller, although you can use rechargeable AA batteries in it.
Ultimately, we like the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller for its unmatched array of themed designs and overall similarities to the Pro Controller with a cheaper price tag, though we wouldn’t recommend choosing it as your primary Switch controller. Instead, make this your second or third Switch controller that you pick up for multiplayer sessions or when your Pro controller needs charging.