Hardware Which "non-switch" controller is the best?

[Lallo]

I just recently bought a used Switch which will probably be used mostly to play multiplayer couch games like Mario Party, Super Smash, Mario Tennis, Mario Kart etc with my friends.

The first problem would be that I don't really want to go and buy additional 4 Pro controllers or additional Joy-Cons.
However, I own 4 additional PS3 controllers (which we use when we play couch-multiplayer on PC) and also 4 great working Gamecube controllers which we always use for Smash 4 ( I have the Nintendo Adapter for Wii U).

Now I heard that connecting at least the GC controller shouldn't be a problem, is connecting PS3 controller also easy or do I need any additional adapters? (I also have a Wii U Pro controller so I would love to now how to connect this).
I've also heard that the Joy-Cons have a "Left Z-button" which is missing on the GC-controller, making it hard to play some games. Which controller works the best? Any advice for me who want to play with my friend but not pay additional money for brand new pro controllers?

 

[TheCyberQuake]

I just recently bought a used Switch which will probably be used mostly to play multiplayer couch games like Mario Party, Super Smash, Mario Tennis, Mario Kart etc with my friends.

The first problem would be that I don't really want to go and buy additional 4 Pro controllers or additional Joy-Cons.
However, I own 4 additional PS3 controllers (which we use when we play couch-multiplayer on PC) and also 4 great working Gamecube controllers which we always use for Smash 4 ( I have the Nintendo Adapter for Wii U).

Now I heard that connecting at least the GC controller shouldn't be a problem, is connecting PS3 controller also easy or do I need any additional adapters? (I also have a Wii U Pro controller so I would love to now how to connect this).
I've also heard that the Joy-Cons have a "Left Z-button" which is missing on the GC-controller, making it hard to play some games. Which controller works the best? Any advice for me who want to play with my friend but not pay additional money for brand new pro controllers?

I may be wrong, but I believe I once heard that the gamecube controllers have hotkeys for accessing the other missing buttons. Can't guarantee that though.
As for PS3 controllers, you will need an adapter. The 8bitdo wireless controller adapter should work

 

[slaphappygamer]

I’m looking at this one. From what I’ve read, more people like this is better than the 8bitdo. I’m waiting though, Im hoping there may be some “plugin” to enable Bluetooth headphones or other controller pairing. I’m not holding my breath.

 

[RedHotSgtPeppers]

Can confirm that the GCN controllers use the Z button as a hotkey for missing buttons (Z+L is ZL etc). It makes playing Mario Odyssey sort of difficult.

And the Mayflash Magic NS adapter works great. However, using that takes over Player 1, so you can't use it in conjunction with Switch controllers for Player 2, the Switch thinks that both controllers are P1.

 

[slaphappygamer]

And the Mayflash Magic NS adapter works great. However, using that takes over Player 1, so you can't use it in conjunction with Switch controllers for Player 2, the Switch thinks that both controllers are P1.

Whoa wait, you can re-pair the switch controllers for player 2, right?

 

[RedHotSgtPeppers]

Whoa wait, you can re-pair the switch controllers for player 2, right?

I'm sure you can actually, the review video I watched wasn't successful at it, but then again I play video games by myself so I haven't really tried to pair a Player 2.

 

[Lallo]

So I need 4 adapters if I wanna play 4 people? Now that sucks...
Hmm... I hope I can just stick to using Gamecube controllers for most multiplayer games and maybe get an adapter to play some singleplayer games for myself

 

[Trappie]

I prefer xbox1/ ps4, they work great

 

[starburst]

I prefer xbox1/ ps4, they work great

May I ask you which adapter you are using for PS4 controllers? I have an extra PS4 controller and I would like to use it when the Switch is docked.

 

[The Real Jdbye]

One extra set of JoyCons do the job. That's the route I went. I also have a pro controller which I use myself so 3 player the other players get a set of JoyCons each and if we're 4 (or maybe even more if there's a game that supports that) then they share the JoyCons.
But, the absolute best non-Switch controller for Switch would be the 8bitdo SF30/SN30 Pro as it has the motion controls needed for some games, it does cost more than the other options though but it also makes a good wireless controller for on the go use with laptop/tablet etc. or even a phone with the optional phone grip.

 

[Scarlet]

I will always recommend the SN30 Pro for things like this. The controller has everything you need in a Switch controller, looks great, and works with Android and PC as well as the Switch. Like Jdbye said, it's more expensive than getting an adapter for other controllers but it really is worth it. You can check out a full review here if you're curious: https://gbatemp.net/review/8bitdo-sn30-pro.703/

 

[Trappie]

May I ask you which adapter you are using for PS4 controllers? I have an extra PS4 controller and I would like to use it when the Switch is docked.

I use one that allows you to use mouse/keyboard on ps4/xb1/nsw, it also allows cross platform controllers

 

[Trappie]

May I ask you which adapter you are using for PS4 controllers? I have an extra PS4 controller and I would like to use it when the Switch is docked.

I use one that allows you to use mouse/keyboard on ps4/xb1/nsw, it also allows cross platform controllers