Hori Split Pad Pro Review: The Ultimate Nintendo Switch Controller

If you're a Nintendo Switch player, you probably know that the Joy-Con controllers, while versatile and compact, may not always offer the level of comfort and precision that some gamers desire. Enter the Hori Split Pad Pro, an alternative Joy-Con experience. In this review, we'll take a close look at this must-see Joy-Con alternative and explore its features, design, and performance.

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Hori Split Pad Pro Review

Today, we'll be looking at the three main features of the Hori Split Pad Pro to give you a comprehensive review: design, features, and performance.

Read on to see a detailed breakdown of each element.

Hori Split Pad Pro Design

The Hori Split Pad Pro's primary focus is on comfort and ergonomics, and it excels in this department. Unlike the small and skinny form factor of the Joy-Cons, the Split Pad Pro boasts a larger, more comfortable design with real grips and a textured surface. The full-sized controls and chunkier build ensure that your hands won't cramp during extended gaming sessions.

The thumbsticks, bumpers, and triggers have a more satisfying feel, providing greater precision and accuracy in games. Playing FPS genres, in particular, become more enjoyable with enhanced support and control. Additionally, the face buttons offer softer and slightly rounded edges, ensuring a more tactile experience compared to the sharp edges of the Joy-Con buttons.

The Hori Split Pad Pro comes in various colorways, allowing you to personalize your gaming experience to match your favorite franchise. However, the larger form factor might make it less appealing to those who prioritize style, as it deviates from the sleek Nintendo Switch vibe. Moreover, it won't fit into a standard Nintendo Switch case, making portability a consideration for on-the-go gamers.

Hori Split Pad Pro Features

The Hori Split Pad Pro sacrifices some features found in the Joy-Cons to prioritize better control and comfort. It lacks HD rumble, NFC, and wireless connection, which means it can only be used when connected directly to the Nintendo Switch or through the included attachment accessory.

However, the gamepad offers two back paddles that can be easily remapped using the dedicated Assign button on each side. This remapping feature is beneficial for FPS and online shooters, providing players with customizable controls for a more tailored gaming experience. The turbo function, which allows you to choose between three different speeds for repeat presses, harkens back to the classic gaming days and can be a useful tool in certain games.

Hori Split Pad Pro Performance

With its larger size and extra spacing, the Hori Split Pad Pro delivers a satisfying gaming experience. The responsive buttons, satisfying snaps, and clicks ensure a smooth and accurate performance, whether you're playing action-packed shooters or navigating intricate menus in RPGs.

The thumb sticks offer enhanced precision, making aiming and shooting feel more reliable and precise across a variety of games. However, the re-mappable back paddles may not see extensive use in certain genres, as they are more suited for games with complex control schemes.

How to Buy the Hori Split Pad Pro

You can buy the Hori Split Pad Pro today by using our link below!

The Wrap

The Hori Split Pad Pro is an excellent investment for Nintendo Switch players who prioritize comfort and precision in their gaming experience. Priced at $79.99 for the full set or around $40-$50 for the controllers alone, it offers a more luxurious experience compared to the standard Joy-Con controllers. Handheld players, in particular, will find the Split Pad Pro a must-have accessory for enhancing their gaming comfort - or even as a pairing to your favorite special edition Nintendo Switch console!

For those who enjoy both handheld and docked gaming, the attachment set can be a viable option, covering all aspects of solo play. However, it's not suitable for multiplayer gaming due to the lack of wireless connection. If multiplayer gaming is your focus, you may want to consider alternative options. For gamers looking at a kid-friendly option, the Hori Split Pad Compact is an excellent choice.

In conclusion, the Hori Split Pad Pro delivers on its promise of offering a more comfortable and precise gaming experience for Nintendo Switch players. If you're looking to upgrade your Joy-Cons, this excellent alternative is worth the investment.

Check out our side-by-side comparison of both Hori Split Pad models if you're trying to find which is the right choice for you!

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