is a commerce reporter for The Verge writing about the best deals and gadgets. He previously wrote for Business Insider, Rolling Stone, Futurism, and Popular Science.
The Nintendo Switch 2 comes with a pair of Joy-Con 2 controllers, but it’s always good to have a second set around in case more people come over for a few rounds of Mario Kart World. BJ’s Wholesale Club is offering a set of Joy-Con 2 controllers for $79.99 ($20 off), a new all-time low. The store requires a paid membership to shop there, but anyone can take advantage of the deal by clicking “Get a 1-day online pass” during checkout.
The Joy-Con 2 are the default Nintendo Switch 2 controllers, and they attach magnetically to the sides of the console. The magnets are strong enough that they won’t accidentally pop off, but you can detach them by pressing a button on their back side. Once detached, the Joy-Con 2 controllers can be used wirelessly. Each Joy-Con 2 has a control stick, four face buttons, a pair of top buttons, and either a “+” or “-” button, which allow you to use each one as a standalone controller. A pair of Joy-Con 2 can also be used simultaneously by one player.
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The Joy-Con 2 controllers have a built-in accelerometer and gyroscope, which allows them to detect motion. Similarly, each one has a mouse sensor, which you can enable by putting either controller down on a flat surface on its side. Only certain Nintendo Switch 2 games, including Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, have a supported mouse mode. While they look like their predecessors, the Joy-Con 2 controllers are only compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2 and cannot be connected to the original Nintendo Switch.
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