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What to Look for in Extra Joy-Con Controllers for Nintendo Switch Sports

Original Joy-Con offer the broadest fit for Nintendo Switch Sports, including optional Soccer Leg-Strap play. Check the game’s setup prompt for the controller count your sport and player mode require.
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For the broadest compatibility with Nintendo Switch Sports, choose original Nintendo Switch Joy-Con. They work with the game’s supported single- and paired-controller setups, and they can be used with the optional Leg Strap for Soccer. Joy-Con 2 also works with the game on Switch 2, but not with the Leg Strap. The right number of controllers depends on the sport and player setup, so check the game’s controller prompt before buying.

Which controllers work with Nintendo Switch Sports?

Nintendo supports original Joy-Con in single-controller, paired-controller, and Joy-Con-plus-Leg-Strap configurations, depending on the sport and play style. Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers and Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controllers are not compatible. See Nintendo’s compatibility and play-style guidance.

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The game does not support handheld mode. Nintendo recommends TV Mode on Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, or Nintendo Switch 2 for the best experience.

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How many Joy-Con do you need?

There is no single controller count that applies to every sport and mode: some supported setups use one Joy-Con, while others use a left-and-right pair. Select the sport and player setup in the game and follow its on-screen controller prompt before you decide how many extras to buy. Nintendo’s compatibility guidance does not provide a complete sport-by-sport, player-by-player quantity chart.

#1 Best Overall
Nintendo Neon Purple/Neon Orange Joy-Con (L-R) - Switch
  • Two Joy Con can be used independently in each hand, or together as 1 game controller when attached to the Joy Con grip
  • They can also attach to the main console for use in handheld mode, or be shared with friends to enjoy two player action in supported games
  • Each Joy Con has a full set of buttons and can act as a standalone controller, and each includes an accelerometer and gyro sensor, making independent left and right motion control possible

A Switch system can pair up to eight wireless controllers, according to Nintendo’s wireless-controller guidance. That is a system pairing limit, not a guarantee that every Switch Sports mode supports eight local players; the maximum depends on the software and features.

Original Joy-Con or Joy-Con 2?

Controller Works with the game? Leg Strap Switch 2 detail
Original Nintendo Switch Joy-Con Yes; supported configurations vary by sport and play style. Compatible. Can pair wirelessly, but cannot attach to the Switch 2 console rails.
Joy-Con 2 Yes, on Nintendo Switch 2. Not compatible. Supported with the game on Switch 2.

Nintendo says original Joy-Con used wirelessly with Switch 2 must be charged using an original Switch console or a compatible charging accessory, such as a Joy-Con charging grip or charging stand. They cannot charge by attaching to Switch 2. See Nintendo’s Switch 2 FAQ.

Does the Soccer Leg Strap matter?

The Leg Strap is optional and is used for Soccer in Nintendo Switch Sports. It is designed for that game and Ring Fit Adventure. For Switch Sports, Nintendo’s instructions show a left original Joy-Con inserted with its control stick facing outward, with the strap placed at the center of the thigh. Joy-Con 2 cannot be used with the Leg Strap. See Nintendo’s Leg Strap instructions.

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If Leg Strap play is important to you, make sure your setup includes an original Joy-Con that the strap can hold. If you are comparing listings, verify whether they include the strap; do not assume it comes with a controller.

Rank #3
Nintendo Blue/Neon Yellow Joy-Con (L-R) - Switch
  • Two Joy Con can be used independently in each hand, or together as 1 game controller when attached to the Joy Con grip
  • They can also attach to the main console for use in handheld mode, or be shared with friends to enjoy 2 player action in supported games
  • Each Joy Con has a full set of buttons and can act as a standalone controller, and each includes an accelerometer and gyro sensor, making independent left and right motion control possible
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Check wrist straps and listing contents

Nintendo instructs players to attach a Joy-Con strap accessory when using a detached Joy-Con wirelessly. The original strap accessory is model HAC-014. Align the plus or minus marks, slide the strap accessory onto the Joy-Con rail, lock it, put on the wrist loop, and tighten it enough that it cannot fall off—but do not overtighten it. Nintendo’s steps are at Attach, detach and wear Joy-Con straps.

Before buying, check the listing’s stated contents and condition. In particular, confirm whether it is for original Joy-Con or Joy-Con 2, whether it contains one controller or a left-and-right pair, and whether wrist straps or a Leg Strap are included. Controller compatibility does not establish what a particular seller’s listing contains.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 4
Nintendo Joy-Con (L)/(R) - Pastel Purple/Pastel Green
Nintendo Joy-Con (L)/(R) - Pastel Purple/Pastel Green
Expand your collection with these colorful pastel Joy-Con controllers.
$87.00
Rank #4
Nintendo Joy-Con (L)/(R) - Pastel Purple/Pastel Green
  • Expand your collection with these colorful pastel Joy-Con controllers.

Quick buying checklist

  • Check the console and controller generation, especially if you own Switch 2.
  • Choose the number and type of Joy-Con based on the game’s prompt for your sport and player setup.
  • Choose original Joy-Con if you want the option of Soccer Leg-Strap Mode.
  • Check whether you already have the wrist straps needed for detached wireless play.
  • Do not buy a Pro Controller for this game; neither Switch Pro Controller generation is supported.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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