When you're looking for controllers gaming accessories for an older console, the decision usually comes down to a trade-off between wireless convenience, button feel, and what you're willing to spend. The four options here span PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo 64, with prices running from $13.99 to $22.99. The cheapest is wired, the priciest is wireless, but that doesn't automatically make the more expensive pad the better fit for your setup.
Quick Take
- For PS2: the 2x For Sony PS2 2.4G Wireless Twin Shock Game Controller Joystick Joypad is wireless and includes twin-shock feedback.
- For PS3: the 2x Black Wireless Bluetooth Video Game Controller Pad uses Bluetooth 3.0 and supports six-axis movement.
- For Switch: the Pro Wireless Game Controller Gamepad Joystick Remote offers a turbo button for rapid-fire actions.
- For N64: the New Wired Controller Joystick delivers a classic button layout and a 6-foot cord at the lowest price.
Price Comparison
| Product | Price | Price Bar |
|---|---|---|
| 2x For Sony PS2 2.4G Wireless Twin Shock Game Controller Joystick Joypad | USD 22.95 | [#########-] |
| 2x Black Wireless Bluetooth Video Game Controller Pad For Sony PS3 Playstation 3 | USD 17.88 | [#######---] |
| Pro Wireless Game Controller Gamepad Joystick Remote For Nintendo Switch / Lite | USD 22.99 | [##########] |
| New Wired Controller Joystick Compatible With Nintendo 64 N64 Video Game Console | USD 13.99 | [######----] |
Decision Matrix
| If you own a... | Pick this controller | Why |
|---|---|---|
| PlayStation 2 | 2x For Sony PS2 2.4G Wireless Twin Shock | Built for PS2 |
| PlayStation 3 | 2x Black Wireless Bluetooth Video Game Controller Pad | Built for PS3 |
| Nintendo Switch | Pro Wireless Game Controller | Built for Switch / Lite |
| Nintendo 64 | New Wired Controller Joystick | Built for N64 |
Product Notes
2x For Sony PS2 2.4G Wireless Twin Shock Game Controller Joystick Joypad
If your PS2 setup is buried in cables, this two-pack uses 2.4GHz wireless to free things up. The twin-shock feedback is a solid reason to choose it, letting you feel in-game impacts without plugging into the console. At $22.95, it's on the higher end of this group, but you're getting two controllers in return. The catch is that it's made for the PlayStation 2, so if you have a PS3, Switch, or N64, you'll need a different pad for those systems. This is the only wireless PS2 controller in the bunch, which makes it the obvious pick if that's the console you're trying to revive.
2x Black Wireless Bluetooth Video Game Controller Pad For Sony PS3 Playstation 3
This $17.88 set gets you two Bluetooth 3.0 pads for the PS3, and the six-axis movement support adds motion control to games that use it. The built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack is a practical plus, so you won't need a stash of AA batteries. Wireless range is 5-10 meters, which covers most living rooms. The limiting factor is that it's built for the PlayStation 3, so it's not a multi-console controller. As a two-pack at this price, it's a reasonable middle ground between the lowest-priced N64 pad and the higher-priced wireless options.
Pro Wireless Game Controller Gamepad Joystick Remote For Nintendo Switch / Lite
At $22.99, this is the most expensive controller here, but it brings Switch-specific extras. The turbo button assigns rapid-fire to any action button, which can give you an edge in fast-paced games. It also has a built-in rechargeable lithium battery, so you can top it up between sessions. The design is meant for the Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite, so you're covered if you own either model. The downside is the price: it's the top of this range, and it's built for the Switch and Switch Lite, so it won't cover other consoles. If you're not playing on a Switch, this one won't help you, but Switch owners get a feature-rich wireless gamepad.
New Wired Controller Joystick Compatible With Nintendo 64 N64 Video Game Console
The $13.99 price makes this the cheapest of the four, and it gives N64 fans the classic layout: 10 active buttons, a Z-trigger, and an analog stick. The 6-foot cord is long enough to sit back from the TV, and it works with the N64 Rumble Pak and Memory Pak, so your existing accessories stay useful. The caveat is that it's wired, so you're tethered to the console, and it's a third-party product rather than official Nintendo hardware. If you just want a functional replacement pad for an N64 without spending much, this is the way to go.
Final Recommendation
- PS2 gamers should go with the 2x For Sony PS2 2.4G Wireless Twin Shock for wireless PS2 play.
- PS3 players who want motion control should pick the 2x Black Wireless Bluetooth Video Game Controller Pad.
- Switch owners who want a wireless pad should choose the Pro Wireless Game Controller.
- N64 fans who want a classic wired feel should grab the New Wired Controller Joystick.
