The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct brought a wave of exciting announcements about the upcoming handheld. From upgraded Joy-Cons and new Discord features like GameChat communication to faster memory speeds for more demanding games, there’s a lot to look forward to. Alongside the fresh features and game reveals, Nintendo also introduced several new accessories for the Switch 2. But if you’re a current Switch 1 player wondering whether your existing gear will be compatible with the new console, this guide is for you. Read on to discover which Nintendo Switch 2 accessories you can continue using.
Nintendo Switch 2 Compatible Accessories
While some accessories from previous consoles will be compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2, there are certain limitations due to hardware changes. With that in mind, here’s a list of all Switch 1 accessories that will work with the Nintendo Switch 2:
1. Joy-Cons
Joy-Cons can be wirelessly paired with the Nintendo Switch 2, but they cannot be physically attached to the console. Additionally, to recharge them, you’ll need a Switch 1-compatible charging accessory, such as the Joy-Con charging grip or a charging stand.
2. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Similar to the Joy-Cons, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller can be wirelessly paired with the Switch 2. It can also be charged using the Switch 2 dock via a USB cable, making it one of the most flexible and convenient accessories to carry over.
3. Nintendo Entertainment System Controller
The Nintendo Entertainment System Controller can be wirelessly paired with the Switch 2 and functions only with compatible games. However, it cannot be physically attached to the Nintendo Switch 2. To recharge the controller, you’ll need a Switch console or a Joy-Con charging stand.
4. Super Nintendo Entertainment System Controller
Like the Switch Pro Controller, this accessory can be connected wirelessly to the Nintendo Switch 2. It can also be conveniently charged using the Switch 2 dock with a USB cable and is compatible with select Nintendo Switch 2 games.
5. Nintendo 64 Controller
Moving on, the Nintendo 64 Controller can be wirelessly paired with the Switch 2. It can also be charged using the Nintendo Switch 2 dock via a USB cable and will work with compatible games.
6. SEGA Genesis Control Pad
Even if you have a SEGA Genesis Control Pad, there’s no need to worry, it’s compatible with the Switch 2 as well. You can connect it wirelessly to the new console and charge it using the Switch 2 dock with a USB cable.
7. Nintendo GameCube Controller Adapter
This Nintendo Switch 1 accessory is compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2 and can be connected via its USB port for use in TV mode.
Non-Compatible Nintendo Switch 2 Accessories
Now that you’re familiar with all the accessories that will work seamlessly with the Nintendo Switch 2, here’s a list of accessories that won’t be compatible with the upcoming console.
1. Adjustable Charging Stand for Nintendo Switch
Unfortunately, the Switch 1 Charging Stand is not compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2.
2. Nintendo Switch Dock
The Nintendo Switch Dock cannot be used to charge the Switch 2, primarily due to changes in the console’s hardware.
3. Nintendo Switch AC adapter
You can use the Nintendo Switch AC adapter to charge your Switch 2 console; however, due to changes in power output, this accessory cannot be used to display the Switch 2 screen in TV mode.
4. HDMI cable included with Nintendo Switch
The old HDMI cable is not compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2. It’s highly recommended to use the new HDMI cable included in the Switch 2 box for optimal performance.
5. microSD cards
According to the latest Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo has confirmed that the new console will only support microSD Express cards, which offer faster data transfer speeds. As a result, older microSD cards will be unusable for gameplay and storage purposes, though they can still be used to view screenshots and videos.
6. Joy-Con Strap
The old Joy-Con Straps are not compatible with the new Switch 2 controllers. To use these straps, you’ll need to connect them to Switch 1 Joy-Cons and then pair those Joy-Cons wirelessly with the Switch 2.
7. Joy-Con Grip
Similarly, the Switch 1 Joy-Con Grips are not compatible with the Switch 2 controllers. You’ll need to use them with the original Switch 1 Joy-Cons to make them usable.
8. Joy-Con Charging Grip
This charging grip is not compatible with the Switch 2 Joy-Cons; it only works with the original Joy-Cons, which can still be connected to the Switch 2 wirelessly.
9. Joy-Con Wheel
This Wheel accessory is not compatible with the Joy-Con 2 controllers. To use it, you’ll need the original Joy-Cons, which can then be wirelessly connected to the Switch 2.
10. Leg Strap
The Leg Strap is only compatible with Switch 1 Joy-Cons, which can then be wirelessly connected to the Switch 2.
11. Ring-Con
It can only be used with Switch 1 Joy-Cons, which can then be paired wirelessly with the Switch 2.
12. Joy-Con AA Battery Pack Pair
Needless to say, the Joy-Con AA Battery Pack is only compatible with the Switch 1 controllers and will not fit the Nintendo Switch 2.
13. Joy-Con Charging Stand (Two-Way)
Finally, we have the Joy-Con Charging Stand, which does not support the Switch 2 controllers. However, if you’re using Switch 1 Joy-Cons to play on your Switch 2 wirelessly, you’ll need this accessory to keep them charged.
And there you have it, you now know which Nintendo Switch 1 accessories are compatible with the Switch 2. Speaking of which, have you pre-ordered the Switch 2 yet? Let us know in the comments below!
