This PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch (PAN, I got the black one) is the controller I use most often when I don't need my keyboard/mouse nor Steam Controller for fine tuned aiming or clicking. If I had to buy a controller that has two joysticks, this would currently be the one to buy.
I like the feel, weight (Footnote #1), rear extra buttons, and like being able to pop in AA rechargeable batteries on the fly (I always have an extra charged set of AAs handy so I never really run out of battery). I hate controllers that you have to plug in to charge, because it runs out of battery at the worst times, and then having a cord sticking out messes with movement as well as injects another point of failure if it’s caught or bent on something. Also, the plug-in-to-charge controllers usually have hard-to-replace and buy batteries whereas AA rechargeables are cheap and insanely easy to find and replace.
I won't really hold this controller to the standard of a keyboard/mouse nor the Steam Controller (SC), because for what those two are good for, they are far superior. You can't beat aiming with a mouse nor plethora of buttons with a keyboard, and the Steam Controller has an insane amount of niceties that work very, very well together (it’s great for games with some aiming). For instance with the Steam Controller, triggers with smooth start that sends analog signal first and then a clicky digital input at the end, touchpads that gently and precisely vibrate to give lots of different feelings (not just BUZZZZ) that also let you do fast and precise motions mimicking a joystick or mouse on your choice, rear buttons that are extremely easy to push that can be programmed to be anything (not just buttons on the controller), it has a gyro that is perfect to use with the touchpads, I could go on ... the Steam Controller is still my #1 choice of controller if I had no other controllers for use cases.
Compared to the Xbox One Wireless (XO), it doesn't work in UWP microsoft store games, which is not PowerA's fault, no other controllers that I have seem to work with UWP games (not SC, not DS4, not this one only the XO seems to be allowed, just one of the many reasons why I don’t buy UWP games). It has to use bluetooth, and haven’t tested it with multiple PAN controllers, so I wonder how that holds up (the XO controller has to use use an adapter to connect multiple controller, but I don’t think a special adapter is required for DS4, PAN, nor SC[plus all SCs come with a free adapter whereas with XO you pay extra]). XO doesn’t have a gyro.
Compared to the Dual Shock 4 (DS4) and XO, the PAN triggers are clicky digital with no analog movement (but that’s apparently true of all Nintendo triggers now oddly, Ive really grown to like the dual-stage triggers on the SC). It turns itself on when you touch ANY PAN button (so annoying when trying to put it away). HAS REAR BUTTONS YOU CAN CHANGE ON THE FLY!!! All controllers need to have this from here on out, I won’t buy a controller without it (PAN has it and SC has it, it’s insanely useful). I wish the PAN controller’s rear button could be mapped to joystick down presses (I hate joystick down presses usually because they are often required when you’re supposed to be moving the joystick too). I do like the button and joystick feel of the XO and DS4 controllers a bit better BUT the PAN buttons joystick, triggers are totally fine and I haven’t felt the need to go back and give up the rear buttons (compared to XO) nor easy-swap batteries (compared to DS4).
Compared to DS4, they both have a gyro. You have to plug in the DS4 to charge it (built in battery instead of easy hot-swap batteries like the PAN). DS4 has a touchpad in the middle WITH different clicks! The joysticks are better, and it’s easier to push down on them (best implementation of joystick click I’ve seen). Otherwise, I think if the DS4 had rear buttons that can be seperately controlled (not just hardware mapped but able to use Steam to change them to whatever I want), hot-swap AAs, and I could put the controller into ABXY scheme so games used it automatically, and no vibration motors inside, it would beat the NAN and XO controller as far as controller performance goes. If the DS4 also had dual stage triggers… wow. I would still use my SC for games with some aiming (and mouse for a lot of aiming or clicking/RTS/management games), but it would probably be my go-to controller.
However, for the price, features and build quality, this PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch (PAN) is my top two-joystick controller currently.
Footnote #1:
It saves weight by not having those ridiculous vibration motors inside, which some people oddly consider the extra weight to make the controller feel “premium,” which is a bit silly, plus having vibration that strong kills the battery too quickly so I don’t want it)
Similar items that may deliver to you quickly
Page 1 of 1 Start overPage 1 of 1
From the manufacturer
PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch - Cuphead
Play your favorite Nintendo Switch games* like a pro with this officially licensed PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller. Built for comfort during extended gaming sessions, this Bluetooth wireless controller features motion controls, mappable Advanced Gaming Buttons, and standard ergonomic layout. Enjoy up to 30 hours of gameplay with new alkaline batteries** or add your own rechargeable batteries.
Wireless Freedom
Super-fun, super-freeing, the PowerA wireless controller for Nintendo Switch provides tangle-free gaming. Bluetooth 5.0 technology means excellent connectivity, and if your batteries go down—no worries! The included 10ft (3m) USB-C charge cable gives you plenty of length to play from your favorite spot in the room.
Key Features:
Beautiful Designs
PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controllers for Nintendo Switch feature stunning designs, that bring freshness to iconic properties with vivid colors and cool graphics. Celebrate your favorite game with your new favorite new gamepad—with super-comfortable ergonomics, an intuitive button layout, and reliable performance.
- Yellow and orange controller with Cuphead designs
- Wireless freedom using Bluetooth 5.0
- Features motion controls and mappable Advanced Gaming Buttons
- Ergonomic design with standard button layout*
- LEDs for player number, button mapping, and low battery warning
- Includes two AA batteries for up to 30 hours of gameplay**
- Officially licensed for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite
- LxWxH Dimensions: 11.25” x 9” x 2.5” (4.5” w/ Joystick) / cm: 28.6 x 22.8 x 6.4 (11.4 w/ Joystick)
|
|
|
|
|---|---|---|
Advanced Gaming ButtonsGain a competitive advantage rear-mounted Advanced Gaming Buttons you can program on-the-fly, mid-game—no app or system settings to configure. Just hold the program button for three seconds (1) followed by the button you wish to map (2), then select either AGR or AGL (3) to complete the process for quick mid-game button mapping. |
PowerA Quality PromisePowerA, controllers are designed and engineered to the highest standards. They’re made with quality materials, packed with the best gaming features, and they deliver reliable performance every time you play. Plus PowerA backs all products for 2-years, so it’s a controller you can count on. |
Officially Licensed ProductThis PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller is officially licensed by Nintendo. The Nintendo Seal means our controller has gone through Nintendo’s rigorous testing and evaluation process. |
Videos
Page 1 of 1Start OverPage 1 of 1
Videos for this product
1:43
Click to play video
PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller | Nintendo | How to Sync
5after12
Videos for this product
0:53
Click to play video
Our Point of View on PowerA Wireless Controllers
WTI | We Tried It!
Videos for this product
16:44
Click to play video
PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller - Mario Silhouette
5after12
Videos for this product
0:28
Click to play video
Nintendo switch red and black controller
Emily Bovee
Videos for this product
0:32
Click to play video
HONEST review of this wireless controller!
Colleen Cupp
Videos for this product
4:50
Click to play video
PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller | Poke Ball Red
5after12
Reviews with images
Although more expensive than an off-brand controller I tried, it's worth it
I compared the Ralthy controller to the official Nintendo Pro controller (henceforth "Pro controller"). In short, the Pro controller is far superior and the better purchase. Read on below to understand why I think so.HAND COMFORTThe most important aspect of a controller is how it feels in your hand — after all, if you're going to be playing for hours, you want it to be comfortable. The Ralthy controller is not nearly as comfortable or ergonomic as the Pro controller; it feels flat in parts where the Pro controller comfortably hugs your hand. This seems independent of hand size, as my girlfriend also agrees and she has very small hands (whereas I can easily palm a basketball).BUTTON PLACEMENTThe placement of the buttons and joysticks on the Ralthy controller are subtly different than on the Pro controller and — in the opinion of both my gf and I — the positions are worse. Many of the buttons as well as the right joystick are less comfortable/harder to reach. This is especially true of the L/R trigger buttons. They FEEL like triggers on the Pro controller, whereas on the Ralthy controller it's a very large button which is much harder to pull with your finger. Also, the official controller has two additional buttons on the grip which are missing on the Ralthy controller.BUILD QUALITYThe Pro controller is constructed out of slightly lighter plastic, so although it's slightly lighter it doesn't feel as sturdy or durable as the Ralthy controller. I feel like if I dropped it, the plastic would chip / crack, whereas the Ralthy controller's plastic feels tougher and would more likely just dent if I dropped it.BATTERIESThe Ralthy controllers have a built in rechargeable battery, which can be handy, but today's batteries do eventually get worse with time. Invariably at some point in the future the Ralthy controller will become unusable because the internal battery will hold no charge. In contrast, I like the fact that the Pro controller uses AA batteries, which means in theory as long as that type of battery exists this controller should be usable forever. Also, the Ralthy controller seemed to need a recharge after a long day of gaming but I have yet to need to replace the batteries on the Pro controller with about the same amount of usage.PRICEThe Ralthy controller costs about $15 less than the official Nintendo Pro controller, which makes it a tempting option for some people (including me). I decided to get both and see which I liked best and share those results with you so you can make a better decision. Sorry Ralthy, but in my opinion I would much rather pay an additional $15 for superior comfort, button placement, and the ability to always be able to use the controller far into the future.
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
Reviewed in the United States on July 23, 2020
HAND COMFORT
The most important aspect of a controller is how it feels in your hand — after all, if you're going to be playing for hours, you want it to be comfortable. The Ralthy controller is not nearly as comfortable or ergonomic as the Pro controller; it feels flat in parts where the Pro controller comfortably hugs your hand. This seems independent of hand size, as my girlfriend also agrees and she has very small hands (whereas I can easily palm a basketball).
BUTTON PLACEMENT
The placement of the buttons and joysticks on the Ralthy controller are subtly different than on the Pro controller and — in the opinion of both my gf and I — the positions are worse. Many of the buttons as well as the right joystick are less comfortable/harder to reach. This is especially true of the L/R trigger buttons. They FEEL like triggers on the Pro controller, whereas on the Ralthy controller it's a very large button which is much harder to pull with your finger. Also, the official controller has two additional buttons on the grip which are missing on the Ralthy controller.
BUILD QUALITY
The Pro controller is constructed out of slightly lighter plastic, so although it's slightly lighter it doesn't feel as sturdy or durable as the Ralthy controller. I feel like if I dropped it, the plastic would chip / crack, whereas the Ralthy controller's plastic feels tougher and would more likely just dent if I dropped it.
BATTERIES
The Ralthy controllers have a built in rechargeable battery, which can be handy, but today's batteries do eventually get worse with time. Invariably at some point in the future the Ralthy controller will become unusable because the internal battery will hold no charge. In contrast, I like the fact that the Pro controller uses AA batteries, which means in theory as long as that type of battery exists this controller should be usable forever. Also, the Ralthy controller seemed to need a recharge after a long day of gaming but I have yet to need to replace the batteries on the Pro controller with about the same amount of usage.
PRICE
The Ralthy controller costs about $15 less than the official Nintendo Pro controller, which makes it a tempting option for some people (including me). I decided to get both and see which I liked best and share those results with you so you can make a better decision. Sorry Ralthy, but in my opinion I would much rather pay an additional $15 for superior comfort, button placement, and the ability to always be able to use the controller far into the future.
Color: WhitePattern Name: ControllerVerified Purchase
Although more expensive than an off-brand controller I tried, it's worth it
Reviewed in the United States on July 23, 2020
I compared the Ralthy controller to the official Nintendo Pro controller (henceforth "Pro controller"). In short, the Pro controller is far superior and the better purchase. Read on below to understand why I think so.Reviewed in the United States on July 23, 2020
HAND COMFORT
The most important aspect of a controller is how it feels in your hand — after all, if you're going to be playing for hours, you want it to be comfortable. The Ralthy controller is not nearly as comfortable or ergonomic as the Pro controller; it feels flat in parts where the Pro controller comfortably hugs your hand. This seems independent of hand size, as my girlfriend also agrees and she has very small hands (whereas I can easily palm a basketball).
BUTTON PLACEMENT
The placement of the buttons and joysticks on the Ralthy controller are subtly different than on the Pro controller and — in the opinion of both my gf and I — the positions are worse. Many of the buttons as well as the right joystick are less comfortable/harder to reach. This is especially true of the L/R trigger buttons. They FEEL like triggers on the Pro controller, whereas on the Ralthy controller it's a very large button which is much harder to pull with your finger. Also, the official controller has two additional buttons on the grip which are missing on the Ralthy controller.
BUILD QUALITY
The Pro controller is constructed out of slightly lighter plastic, so although it's slightly lighter it doesn't feel as sturdy or durable as the Ralthy controller. I feel like if I dropped it, the plastic would chip / crack, whereas the Ralthy controller's plastic feels tougher and would more likely just dent if I dropped it.
BATTERIES
The Ralthy controllers have a built in rechargeable battery, which can be handy, but today's batteries do eventually get worse with time. Invariably at some point in the future the Ralthy controller will become unusable because the internal battery will hold no charge. In contrast, I like the fact that the Pro controller uses AA batteries, which means in theory as long as that type of battery exists this controller should be usable forever. Also, the Ralthy controller seemed to need a recharge after a long day of gaming but I have yet to need to replace the batteries on the Pro controller with about the same amount of usage.
PRICE
The Ralthy controller costs about $15 less than the official Nintendo Pro controller, which makes it a tempting option for some people (including me). I decided to get both and see which I liked best and share those results with you so you can make a better decision. Sorry Ralthy, but in my opinion I would much rather pay an additional $15 for superior comfort, button placement, and the ability to always be able to use the controller far into the future.
Images in this review
Top reviews from other countries
Chiry
Control
Reviewed in Mexico on October 17, 2023Color: Pokemon Ultra BallPattern Name: ControllerVerified Purchase
James Lively
Great product
Reviewed in Canada on October 24, 2022Color: Pokemon Ultra BallPattern Name: ControllerVerified Purchase
Alicia Holmes
Good at start
Reviewed in Canada on February 4, 2023Color: Pokemon ExpressionsPattern Name: ControllerVerified Purchase
Michelle Horvath
Good controls
Reviewed in Canada on August 9, 2021Color: Pokemon ShieldPattern Name: ControllerVerified Purchase
Kindle-Kunde
Alles wurde genau beschrieben.
Reviewed in Germany on March 2, 2023Color: Zelda Satin Blue Chrome (only at Amazon.com)Pattern Name: ControllerVerified Purchase
