Although the Nintendo Switch is a new console and the Wii U Pro has been around for almost ten years, their control sticks remain surprisingly compatible.
However, that doesn’t mean you can simply plug in and use a decade-old controller.
Instead, you will need to make some adjustments for the Wii U Pro Controller to work on the Switch, and here is how.
Table of Contents
Does the Wii U Pro Controller Work on Switch?
Using a Wii Pro controller on the Switch is entirely feasible, as long as you have the right adapter.
The best option is a USB-C to USB-A controller adapter, of which there are many available on the market, and they are also quite affordable.
Alternatively, you can use a USB-C hub; however, this may be challenging if you plan to carry your Switch with you. Therefore, it is advisable to have both options available.
In addition to physically connecting the two devices, you will need to find a way to link your old Wii controller to the new Switch console to play the games.
To accomplish this, you will need an additional piece of hardware: a controller adapter. Once again, these are widely available, and locating a functional one online should be relatively easy.
Now that you have all the necessary peripherals, the only step left is to set up your Wii U Pro Controller.
How To Use A Pro Controller For The Switch?
First, you will need to connect your USB-C adapter to your Switch if you plan to use it as a handheld console, or to connect it to your Switch dock if you are not.
Afterward, connect your switch controller adapter to the switch dock and follow the setup instructions. It will guide you through everything you need to connect your Wii U Pro Controller to the console.
The next step is to access the system settings of your switch console and verify any changes in the controllers.
Choose the newly released Wii U Pro Controller, test it out, and you will be prepared to use this amazing controller to play any Switch games you desire.
However, do not expect the gaming experience to be identical to that of the original Switch Pro Controller, as the technological differences between these two Nintendo controllers reflect their age.
It is important to note that you will still be able to stream Switch to Twitch regardless of which controller you are using, as long as you have a Wii U capture card.
Can You Replace the Wii U GamePad?
Unfortunately, replacing a Wii U gamepad with a different device is not possible, as the Wii U is specifically designed for this gamepad. However, you can easily purchase a new gamepad controller to replace the broken one.
Your local store is likely to have one of these, and if not, they are almost always available on platforms like Amazon and eBay, making them quite easy to find. Just ensure that you are purchasing your gamepad from a reputable seller.
Explain that they have the option to purchase the new one.
Conclusion
If you are willing to sacrifice some quality for nostalgia or simply have an unused Wii U Pro controller lying around, using it with a new Switch console is quite straightforward.
However, there will be a noticeable decline in performance since this console is quite old.
FAQ
How many pro controllers can connect to Wii U?
Nintendo Wii U is an amazing console for multiplayer games, primarily due to the fact you can connect up to 10 Wii u pro controllers to it at once, allowing a large family or a group of friends to play all together.
How long does the Wii U Pro Controller last?
If you take good care of your Wii U Pro controller, it can easily last you for years. What you need to care about the most are the batteries, as they can sometimes cause significant damage to the controller if it is left unattended for too long.
