Nintendo Switch 2 Accessory Compatibility: What Works and What Doesn’t in 2025

With the Nintendo Switch 2 officially launched on June 5, 2025, many Switch 1 owners are wondering whether their existing accessories will work with the new console. The Switch 2 brings exciting upgrades like a 7.9-inch 1080p LCD display, 4K support when docked, and the new GameChat feature, but it also introduces hardware changes that affect compatibility. Drawing from Nintendo’s official documentation and hands-on insights, this blog post breaks down which Switch 1 accessories are compatible with the Switch 2, which ones aren’t, and what you might need to budget for as you upgrade. Let’s dive into the details to help you make the most of your Switch ecosystem in 2025!

Controllers: A Mixed Bag of Compatibility

The good news for Switch 1 owners is that most controllers are compatible with the Switch 2, but there are some limitations due to hardware differences. The Switch 2 introduces Joy-Con 2 controllers with magnetic attachments, mouse control, and a new “C” button for GameChat, but you can still use many of your older controllers.

• Joy-Con Controllers: Switch 1 Joy-Cons can be paired wirelessly with the Switch 2, which is great for multiplayer games. However, they cannot be physically attached to the Switch 2 due to the new magnetic rail system, and you’ll need a separate charging grip or stand to power them since they can’t charge via the Switch 2 console itself. Certain games like Ring Fit Adventure, Nintendo Switch Sports, and WarioWare: Move It! require Switch 1 Joy-Cons because Joy-Con 2 lacks the IR Motion Camera and has reduced haptic feedback intensity.
• Pro Controller: The Switch 1 Pro Controller works seamlessly with the Switch 2, pairing wirelessly and charging via a USB cable on the Switch 2 dock. This is a cost-saver since the new Switch 2 Pro Controller, with its updated features like programmable back buttons and a GameChat “C” button, retails at $79.99.
• Retro Controllers: Nintendo’s retro controllers, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System Controller, Nintendo 64 Controller, and Sega Genesis Control Pad, can be paired wirelessly with the Switch 2 and charged via the dock’s USB port. However, the Nintendo Entertainment System Controller requires a separate charging accessory, as it cannot connect directly to the Switch 2.

Controller Compatibility Table

Docking and Charging Accessories: Mostly Incompatible

The Switch 2’s new dock supports 4K resolution at up to 60 FPS (or 1080p at 120 FPS) with HDR and VRR, but this upgrade comes at the cost of compatibility with Switch 1 docking accessories.

• Switch 1 Dock and Charging Stand: The Nintendo Switch Dock and Adjustable Charging Stand are not compatible with the Switch 2 due to hardware differences, including size and port configurations. You’ll need to use the Switch 2 dock included with the console or purchase a replacement for $99.99 if you want a second setup.
• AC Adapter: The Switch 1 AC adapter can charge the Switch 2 in handheld mode, but it cannot be used with the Switch 2 dock for TV mode due to differing power outputs. The Switch 2’s included AC adapter is required for docked play.
• HDMI Cable: The Switch 1 HDMI cable won’t work with the Switch 2, as it doesn’t support the new console’s 4K output requirements. You’ll need an HDMI 2.1-compatible cable, which is included with the Switch 2, or a third-party cable that supports 4K at 60 FPS or 1080p at 120 FPS.

Docking and Charging Compatibility Table

Storage: MicroSD Cards Require an Upgrade

The Switch 2 comes with 256GB of internal storage—eight times the 32GB of the Switch 1—but if you rely on a microSD card for extra space, you’ll need to upgrade. The Switch 2 exclusively uses microSD Express cards for faster data transfer speeds, meaning your Switch 1 microSD card won’t work for saving or loading games. You can still use it to view screenshots and videos, but for gameplay, a new microSD Express card is required. Prices for these cards are steep, with SanDisk offering 128GB for $54 and 256GB for $135. To transfer saved games, you’ll need to perform a console-to-console data transfer.

Storage Compatibility Table

Fitness and Specialty Accessories: Some Workarounds

Fitness games and specialty accessories present a mixed picture. The Switch 2’s larger Joy-Con 2 controllers don’t fit into many Switch 1 accessories, but there are workarounds.

• Ring-Con and Leg Strap: The Ring-Con (for Ring Fit Adventure) and Leg Strap (for Nintendo Switch Sports) are incompatible with Joy-Con 2 due to size differences and the lack of an IR Motion Camera. However, you can use them with Switch 1 Joy-Cons paired wirelessly to the Switch 2.
• Nintendo Labo: Most Labo kits work with Switch 1 Joy-Cons on the Switch 2, but the Labo VR Kit is completely incompatible because the Switch 2 console doesn’t fit into the Toy-Con VR Goggles, making it the only Switch 1 game that cannot be played on the Switch 2.

Specialty Accessory Compatibility Table

New Accessories to Consider for Switch 2

The Switch 2 introduces new accessories that take advantage of its features, like the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera ($50) for video chats via GameChat and the Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip with programmable GL/GR buttons. If you’re planning to use Switch 1 Joy-Cons, investing in a Joy-Con charging stand is a smart move since they can’t charge on the Switch 2 console. Additionally, the Switch 2 supports most USB-C webcams for video features, offering flexibility for GameChat users.

Final Thoughts: Plan Your Upgrade Carefully

The Nintendo Switch 2 offers solid backward compatibility for controllers, but docking, charging, and storage accessories largely require replacements due to hardware advancements. If you’re heavily invested in fitness games or Labo, holding onto your Switch 1 Joy-Cons is essential, as many of these accessories don’t work with Joy-Con 2.

Budget-conscious gamers can save by reusing controllers, but expect to spend on a new microSD Express card and possibly an HDMI 2.1 cable for the best experience. Nintendo’s tariff-related price hikes on Switch 2 accessories (e.g., Joy-Con 2 and Pro Controller) make reusing what you can even more appealing. Are you upgrading to the Switch 2? Let me know in the comments which accessories you’re bringing along!