6 Best Controllers for Smash Ultimate in 2024

Super Smash Bros Ultimate is one of the most popular games for the Nintendo Switch. The inclusion of new game characters has upped the ante significantly. But is there a way to actually improve gameplay or your performance? Well, one of the best ways to somewhat improve your control over Super Smash Bros Ultimate is to switch your controller. But which is the best controllers for Smash Bros Ultimate?

Well, there are quite a few third-party and Nintendo’s own controllers that can significantly up your skills, and to some extent, performance. If you’re in the market for a new controller for your Nintendo Switch, particularly for Super Smash Bros Ultimate, this list will help you a great deal. We will talk about wireless controllers, wired, as well as GameCube controllers for good measure.

So with this in mind, let’s have a look at some of the best controllers for Super Smash Bros Ultimate.

Best Controllers for Smash Ultimate

1. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

It should come as no surprise that the Nintendo Switch Pro controller has landed on top of our list as the best Controllers for Smash Ultimate. This version of the Switch Pro is a special “Super Smash Bros Edition” variant, meaning it has all the bearings of the iconic Nintendo game launched in 2018. As far as the features are concerned, this offering has the same set of features found in the Nintendo Joy-Con controllers including built-in amiibo functionality along with motion control, HD rumble, and more.

The buttons are well placed and easy to get used to on the Switch Pro controller. Some users may find it tough to get adjusted to the shoulder buttons (trigger buttons) initially, but it should get better with time. The Nintendo Switch Pro controller has a long battery life, with up to 40 hours of usage with a single charge. It usually takes up to 6 hours to fully charge the Switch Pro, which is somewhat longer than conventional gaming controllers available today.

It uses a standard USB charging cable to juice up, while you can also plug it in via the AC adapter and cable provided with the Nintendo Switch. In terms of ease of use and convenience, the Switch Pro is the best controller for Smash Bros, and we highly recommend you to check it out.

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2. HORI Battle Pad

The Hori Battle Pad is among the best third-party GameCube best controllers for Smash Ultimate. In addition to all the standard controls, it also comes with a conventional C Stick. This analog stick can be used to perform smash attacks while standing or aerial attacks while in the air on Smash Bros. It’s worth pointing out that this is a classic GameCube controller, although not wireless.

Thankfully, this wired GameCube controller comes with a 10 ft USB cable to make sure you can stay connected to your console even at a distance. Some of the keys are also customizable, allowing you to select a particular button for an attack or any other function within Smash Bros, including smash attack. We like the fact that buttons are somewhat protruded and not flush to the surface, though this may not be fit for all users.

Hori specifies that the analog sticks are designed to be anti-snapback to ensure smooth performance during play sessions. The manufacturer offers this GameCube controller in a variety of skins including Mario, Pikachu, and Zelda. The fact that this doesn’t have a battery essentially means you can play for hours on a stretch without ever looking for the charging or controller adapter.

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3. PowerA Wireless Controller

This is yet another exciting GameCube controller with a C stick and all the other features that a Smash Ultimate gamer is looking for. Thanks to the inclusion of the latest hardware, the PowerA wireless controller supports Bluetooth 5.0 for better connectivity. The D-Pad and other controls on this wireless controller are slightly bigger than conventional offerings, making it that much easier while playing any game. As expected, users will also find a dedicated smash attack key here.

This GameCube controller also has a left shoulder button, while motion control and other system buttons offer compatibility with pretty much all Nintendo Switch video games. The PowerA Wireless GameCube controller for Smash Ultimate lacks a built-in battery with the company relying on AA batteries instead. Two batteries are provided, but long-term gamers will need to make sure they’re stocked up on batteries before getting this GameCube controller by PowerA.

We like the inclusion of an LED indicator to show battery status along with a low-battery indicator to alert you of its status. PowerA mentions that the two batteries can help run the controller for up to 30 hours at a time, which is pretty decent. Much like the GameCube controller we discussed above, this controller is available in more than 10 colors, so you may be spoilt for choice in this regard.

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4. Nintendo Joy-Con

The Nintendo Joy-Con is perhaps one of the most exciting pieces of technology to launch from the gaming giant. This controller is built specifically for the Nintendo Switch and is an excellent option for single-player Smash Ultimate gaming. What makes this different from a conventional GameCube controller is the support for handheld mode with the main console.

Sold in a set of two, the Joy-Con can be used for single-player or multiplayer gaming. Nintendo mentions that each side has a gyroscope and accelerometer allowing independent functioning of the left and right controllers. Given that this operates without any wires, it can only run for a certain amount of time.

Nintendo mentions that the Joy-Cons can run for around 4.5 to 9 hours on average, depending on your usage. Charging these controllers is as easy as plugging them into the main console while it’s charging. Users will have to make sure that they’re properly snapped in on either side of the console to ensure proper charging. Alternatively, users can also use charging docks available for the Joy-Con from third-party manufacturers. The Joy-Con set is also accompanied by a Joy-Con Grip to hold them together like a conventional controller.

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5. HORI Split Pad Pro

Much like the controller we spoke about above, the Split Pad Pro by Hori is designed to offer a proper controller experience for your favorite game in handheld mode. However, unlike the Joy-Cons, the Split Pad Pro controller can’t offer individual controller support, meaning you will be required to attach both ends of the controller to use it.

However, it’s worth noting that the Split Pad Pro lacks a gyroscope, which basically means it won’t support motion control on Nintendo games and content. On the bright side, the Hori Split Pad Pro controller looks pretty appealing and has sturdy buttons. There are customizable buttons for Turbo and Assign on either side of the controller, allowing you to enhance your gaming experience overall.

Users should also be aware that this controller doesn’t have a battery of its own, which means it draws power from your Switch when in handheld mode. While it’s clear that this doesn’t have the same set of features as a GameCube controller, this is one of the best third-party options for Switch controllers out there. Much like other Hori controllers, the Split Pad Pro comes in a wide range of colors and skins, so be sure to have a closer look at this offering.

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6. PDP Wired Controller

If you’re looking for an excellent GameCube controller while also saving quite a few bucks, this wired controller by PDP will fit the bill perfectly. It is powered through a USB port, with the manufacturer offering a 10 feet cable for maximum length during gameplay. Thanks to the detachable stick design, users can remove the C stick to replace it with a full-sized stick for smash attacks or other functions.

The fact that this is a wired GameCube controller negates the need to have a battery underneath, which is one of the biggest positives of a wired controller in comparison to wireless offerings like the ones we’ve discussed above. To enhance the customization aspect, PDP offers this exciting GameCube controller in multiple colors, allowing you to choose between skin options like Jigglypuff, Sonic, Mario, Luigi, Pikachu, Princess Peach, and a whole lot more.

At around 410 grams (14.4 oz), it’s not the lightest GameCube controller out there, but it’s not a whole lot heavier than other controllers in this segment. If you’re on the hunt for a classic GameCube controller, this one checks all the boxes.

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