I had fun playing it, and while I didn’t fall down the rabbit hole of gaming addiction, I liked it enough to buy my own. I only play on long flights, so am always in handheld rather than full controller mode. While the ergonomics of Nintendo’s stock Joy-Con aren’t too bad, HORI’s Split Pad Pro delivers game-changing (pun intended) comfort.
The Split Pad Pro is for use in handheld mode only, and doesn’t include HD rumble, an IR camera, or any motion-sensing capabilities. What it does do is bring the full-size controller experience to portable Switch play, with standard-sized analog sticks, a good D-pad, and pretty good shoulder buttons. The Pro also packs in turbo functionality and button assignment, including two extra triggers on the back.
The HORI Split Pad Pro is officially licensed by Nintendo, and is the only dedicated Switch accessory I’ve tested that I continue to use. It’s also the reason I didn’t upgrade to the Switch Lite. When the rumored Switch Pro makes its debut, I’m hoping either it will either be compatible or HORI makes a compatible accessory.
Side story: On a flight last December, I was seated beside a young man I guessed to be about twelve years old. His communication was limited to two grunts and a jerky nod the first hour. But after I used my travel-sized USB-C adapter to plug my Switch into the in-seat power, attached my Split Pad Pro, then added my RHA Flight Adapter to pair the Switch’s audio to my AirPods Pro, the kid couldn’t help himself. He launched into questions about the set-up, which were my favorite games, etc. I, of course, let him play. The flight literally and figuratively flew by for both of us.
Twist’s Take: Add the HORI Split Pad Pro to your Nintendo Switch and enjoy the full-size controller experience while in handheld mode.
