Hori Reveals Split Pad Compact, A New Switch Controller For Handheld Mode

Hori has revealed the Split Pad Compact, a brand new handheld-only Switch controller that connects to the perimeters of the console similar to the Joy-Con. The title “Split Pad” would possibly sound acquainted already. Hori initially cornered the choice Joy-Con market in 2019 with the Split Pad Pro, an outstanding controller that beefed up the ergonomics, added typical handles, and bigger buttons and triggers. It has remained our choose for the most effective handheld Switch controller ever since. Suffice to say, we’re wanting ahead to the Split Pad Compact, a sleeker, redesigned possibility that can seemingly enchantment to those that assume the Split Pad Pro is simply too large.

Officially licensed by Nintendo, the Split Pad compact might be obtainable at Walmart, Best Buy, and Target in October. The controller prices $50 and is available in two coloration schemes: Apricot Red and a dual-color design that’s mild grey on the entrance and yellow on the again.

As the title suggests, the primary distinction between the Split Pad Pro and its youthful brother is measurement. The Split Pad Compact drops the beefy handles in favor of a design that does not look all that completely different from the Joy-Con controllers–at least when wanting on the two attachments head on. The Split Pad Compact continues to be wider than the Joy-Con, although. The bottom of every of the attachments has a curved design meant to supply improved ergonomics. The form is pretty much like the compact grips featured on our greatest Nintendo Switch grips roundup.

Like the Pro model, the Compact has bigger buttons and triggers in addition to full-length analog sticks. Another main bonus with the Compact over the common Joy-Con is that it has an actual D-pad, which is way extra superb for retro video games and side-scrollers than utilizing separated directional buttons. It additionally has a pair of remappable rear triggers, residence/screenshot buttons, and turbo performance.

Keep in thoughts that the Split Pad Compact is a handheld-only controller. It’s not powered by something however the console itself, so you’ll be able to’t use the controller wirelessly when enjoying on TV or in tabletop mode. Earlier this 12 months, Hori launched a Split Pad Pro that comes with an attachment so you should utilize it as a wired controller when gaming with the Switch docked. Hori hasn’t introduced plans to offer the Split Pad Compact the identical therapy. It’s additionally value noting that the Split Pad Compact would not have rumble, gyro, or NFC assist for Amiibo.

Nonetheless, the Split Pad Compact is an thrilling new Switch controller. If it is as high-performing because the Split Pad Pro, Switch homeowners could have one other intriguing controller to select from. Look for our Split Pad Compact evaluate within the coming weeks to see if it lives as much as the Split Pad title.