Hori’s Split Pad Compact is my new favorite controller for handheld gaming on Nintendo Switch. It has everything you could want in a Joy-Con replacement: great sticks, an actual D-pad, ample triggers, remappable back buttons, and, most importantly, truly sublime ergonomics. After spending the past month using the Split Pad Compact almost daily, I can say that I’ll never go back to any other handheld-focused controllers or grips I own.
As a frame of reference, I have quite a few different options that I switched back and forth between up until now. Hori’s great Split Pad Pro was my go-to for awhile. Earlier this year, I started using NexiGo’s Gripcon and the Joypad (both are solid). I’ve also dabbled with various Switch grips, including form-fitting case grips and larger grips with conventional handles like Satisfye’s ZenGrip Pro.