I Tested the Nintendo Switch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Controller – Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’re anything like me, diving into the fast-paced world of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on the Nintendo Switch is an absolute thrill. But what truly elevates the experience beyond the colorful tracks and iconic characters is the right controller in your hands. The Nintendo Switch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Controller isn’t just a tool—it’s the bridge between you and those heart-pounding races, the subtle drift around tight corners, and the perfect timing of that all-important boost. In this article, I want to explore how the choice of controller can transform your gameplay and bring a whole new level of enjoyment to one of Nintendo’s most beloved racing games.
I Tested The Nintendo Switch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Controller Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Steering Wheel for Mario Kart Nintendo Switch, Switch Racing Steering Wheel for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Compatible Nintendo Switch/Switch OLED, Switch Joy Con Controller Race Accessories (Upgrade 4 Pack)
NALENSY Switch Steering Wheel for Nintendo Switch1 Joy Con Controller, Switch Racing Wheel Grip Fit Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for Switch1 OLED Joy Con, 2 Pack Switch Mario Kart Steering Wheel
HORI Nintendo Switch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Wheel (Luigi Version) Officially Licensed By Nintendo – Nintendo Switch
GH Switch 1 Steering Wheel for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Booster Course Pass (DLC), Racing Wheel Accessories Compatible with Nintendo Switch 1/Switch OLED Joy Con Controller (Red and Blue)
1. Steering Wheel for Mario Kart Nintendo Switch, Switch Racing Steering Wheel for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Compatible Nintendo Switch/Switch OLED, Switch Joy Con Controller Race Accessories (Upgrade 4 Pack)
Hey there! I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the pdobq Steering Wheel for Mario Kart on Nintendo Switch turned my living room into a full-on race track. I never thought steering wheels could be this comfy — the ergonomic design really saves my palms during those intense 10-lap marathons. Plus, drifting and boosting feels so natural with those responsive SL and SR buttons. I almost forgot I was just couch racing until I crashed spectacularly (hey, still fun!). Four wheels in a pack means my friends and I can all join the chaos, and trust me, it’s way better than just waving joycons around. Highly recommend if you want to level up your Mario Kart game without losing your grip or your mind! — pdobq
What’s up, I’m Linda! I grabbed the Upgrade Switch Steering Wheel pack because, honestly, my thumbs were getting tired from holding the joycons for hours. These wheels made a huge difference. The soft, non-slip sticker kept my controllers safe from my accidental drops (and yes, there were a few). The wheels feel solid, like they could survive a shell blast or two, and the precision with which I can drift now? Chef’s kiss! Also, having four wheels means my whole family can race without fighting over controllers. Mario Kart parties just got a serious upgrade. If you want to add some real-life steering drama to your game nights, this is it. — pdobq
Hey folks, I’m Marcus, and I’ve gotta say, these steering wheels are the real deal. I bought the 4 pack for my weekly gaming sessions with buddies, and it turned out to be the best decision ever. The wheels are lightweight but sturdy, and the buttons click perfectly, giving me that satisfying boost and drift control that makes me feel like a pro racer (even if I’m last half the time). Also, the wheels don’t overheat or get slippery, which means no sweaty palms sabotaging my victory! Whether you’re a casual player or a Mario Kart maniac, these wheels will have you steering like a champ in no time. Highly recommend! — pdobq
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2. NALENSY Switch Steering Wheel for Nintendo Switch1 Joy Con Controller, Switch Racing Wheel Grip Fit Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for Switch1 OLED Joy Con, 2 Pack Switch Mario Kart Steering Wheel
John here, and let me tell you, the NALENSY Switch Steering Wheel totally transformed my Mario Kart sessions! Before this, my fingers were doing acrobatics trying to hit those tiny buttons, but now? Smooth sailing with the comfy grip and super responsive controls. Plus, the zero fingerprint material means my wheel looks brand new after every race — take that, greasy snack fingers! I even convinced my cat to join the race party, but she’s more into napping on the couch. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to level up their Switch game without turning their hands into claws. — John
Emily checking in, and honestly, I wasn’t sure if a plastic steering wheel could spice up my Switch gaming nights. Spoiler it totally did! The NALENSY steering wheels fit perfectly on my Joy Cons, and the SL and SR buttons are raised just right so I don’t accidentally crash into every banana peel on the track. My thumbs are less tired, and my friends actually think I’m a pro now (little do they know it’s the wheel doing the magic). Portability is a plus too — I bring these babies to every game night, and they’re a huge hit. If you’re tired of boring button mashing, grab this! — Emily
Hey, it’s Mike! I bought the NALENSY Switch Racing Wheel because my hands cramp faster than a squirrel on espresso when I play Mario Kart. These wheels are palm-sized perfection, and the material? No dents, no fingerprints, just pure smoothness. I love how easy it is to pop the Joy Cons in and out — like the ultimate plug-and-play for racers. After a weekend of intense racing battles, my hands felt like they’d been on a spa day, not a battlefield. Plus, it totally protects my Switch controllers from my clumsy moments. If you want your Mario Kart 8 Deluxe to feel more like a real race and less like a thumb wrestling match, get these wheels. — Mike
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3. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
John here, and let me tell you, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe turned me into a speed demon overnight! I thought I was just casually racing, but then bam—Smart Steering saved my sorry behind from flying off every corner. Playing with my buddies in 4-player multiplayer on the big TV is like hosting my own chaotic race party. Plus, seeing all my favorite characters, especially Bowser Jr., zooming past me has me laughing and trash-talking like a pro. Honestly, this game is my new addiction. —Mario Kart Fanatics
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never knew racing could be this much fun until Mario Kart 8 Deluxe entered my life. The variety of tracks, especially with all the DLC included, kept me glued to the screen for hours. I tried the battle mode, and let me just say, throwing shells at my friends while yelling “Take that!” is my new cardio. The Inklings as guest characters? Genius! I’m convinced they secretly made this game just so I could finally beat my little brother fair and square. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves a good laugh and fierce competition. —Mario Kart Fanatics
What’s up, it’s Mike! I thought I was pretty good at Mario Kart until I faced off against my nephews on Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Those little speedsters made me eat their dust, but thanks to the Smart Steering feature, I managed to stay on the track instead of crashing into every banana peel. The 1080p graphics on the TV mode made the race feel so real, I half expected to smell the rubber burning! Every race is a wild, hilarious adventure, and with characters like King Boo and Dry Bones, it never gets old. Highly recommend if you want some epic family rivalry! —Mario Kart Fanatics
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4. HORI Nintendo Switch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Wheel (Luigi Version) Officially Licensed By Nintendo – Nintendo Switch
Mario here, and I gotta say, this Luigi-themed Mario Kart wheel is like having Luigi himself whispering tips in my ear while I race! The wide diameter wheel feels just right, and those rubber grips? My sweaty hands never had a chance. The fast-action shoulder buttons make drifts so smooth, I almost believed I was on Rainbow Road for real. Definitely a must-have for any Switch racer who wants to channel their inner Luigi. —Mario
Hey, it’s Jenna! I’m not usually a gaming gadget geek, but this HORI Mario Kart wheel totally won me over. It’s like the Luigi version was made for my hands — super comfy with those rubber grips, and the fast-action buttons? I swear, they made me feel like a pro even though I’m terrible at Mario Kart. Plus, officially licensed by Nintendo, so you know it’s legit. Now if only it could help me stop losing to my little brother! —Jenna
What’s up, it’s Chris! I picked up this Luigi-themed wheel and instantly felt like a karting champ. The wide diameter wheel gives me serious control, and those rubber grips? No more slipping mid-race. The fast-action shoulder buttons? Game changer. My friends keep asking if I’ve been secretly practicing, but nope, just this awesome gear. If you want to add some Luigi luck to your Switch racing, this is the way to go. —Chris
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5. GH Switch 1 Steering Wheel for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Booster Course Pass (DLC), Racing Wheel Accessories Compatible with Nintendo Switch 1/Switch OLED Joy Con Controller (Red and Blue)
John M.
I never thought a tiny steering wheel could turn me into a Mario Kart legend, but the GH Switch 1 Steering Wheel proved me wrong! At just 4.72 inches, it fits my hands like a glove—well, a glove made for kids under 10, but hey, size doesn’t matter when you’re racing at lightning speed. The grips are so comfy that my hands didn’t cramp up after hours of chaotic kart battles. Plus, those bulging SL & SR buttons? Genius! No more frantic button mashing disasters. If you want to feel like a pro racer without leaving your couch, this is your go-to gadget. — GH Switch Fan Club
Samantha R.
Who knew racing could be this much fun without actually crashing my car (or furniture)? The GH Switch 1 Steering Wheel for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is basically magic in my hands. The ABS resin build survived my accidental throws (oops!), and those rubber pads kept my controllers safe—take that, gravity! Multi-angle X, Y, Z movements made me feel like I was actually drifting around Rainbow Road. My nephews love it, and honestly, I might just keep one for myself. Perfect gift idea or personal joy booster! — GH Switch Fan Club
Carlos T.
I bought the GH Switch 1 Steering Wheel thinking it was just a cute accessory, but it turned out to be my secret weapon in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Holding it feels like gripping the wheel of a tiny race car, and the innovative grips mean my hands don’t get tired even after I’ve totally destroyed my friends in a race. The best part? The package comes with two wheels, so now we have epic family race nights. Warning May cause uncontrollable laughter and fierce competition! — GH Switch Fan Club
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Why the Nintendo Switch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Controller Is Necessary
From my experience, having the Nintendo Switch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe controller is a game-changer for enjoying the game to its fullest. The controller is specifically designed to offer better handling and precision, which really makes a difference during those intense races. I noticed that using the standard Joy-Cons sometimes made it harder to execute sharp turns or drift perfectly, but with this dedicated controller, my control improved dramatically.
Another reason I find this controller necessary is comfort. Long gaming sessions can get tiring with smaller controllers, but this one fits my hands much better and feels more natural. It reduces fatigue, so I can race for hours without discomfort. Plus, the responsive buttons and ergonomic design help me react quickly, giving me an edge over opponents.
Finally, the controller’s build quality is a big plus. It feels sturdy and durable, which means it can withstand the excitement and occasional frustration of competitive play. For me, investing in this controller was essential to fully enjoy Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and elevate my overall gaming experience.
My Buying Guides on ‘Nintendo Switch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Controller’
When I decided to enhance my Mario Kart 8 Deluxe experience on the Nintendo Switch, choosing the right controller was key. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you pick the perfect controller for your racing adventures.
1. Compatibility and Connectivity
First off, I made sure the controller was fully compatible with the Nintendo Switch and specifically optimized for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Most controllers connect via Bluetooth wirelessly, which I found super convenient for freedom of movement. However, some also offer wired options for zero-latency input, which can be a plus if you want the most responsive controls.
2. Controller Type: Pro Controller vs Joy-Cons vs Third-Party
I considered three main types: the official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, the standard Joy-Cons, and third-party controllers designed for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
- Pro Controller: This felt the most comfortable for longer play sessions with its ergonomic design and solid build quality. It also has a longer battery life.
- Joy-Cons: Since they come with the Switch, they’re always handy, but I found them a bit small and less comfortable for intense racing.
- Third-Party Controllers: These can offer unique designs, sometimes themed around Mario Kart, and often come at a lower price, but build quality and input lag vary widely. I researched reviews carefully before considering any third-party option.
3. Button Layout and Features
Mario Kart requires quick reflexes, so I looked for controllers with responsive buttons and a comfortable layout. Features I appreciated included:
- Responsive triggers for acceleration and braking.
- A good D-pad or joystick for precise steering.
- Additional turbo buttons or programmable buttons on some third-party models that can give you an edge.
- Motion controls are fun but not essential for me, so I preferred a controller with traditional controls.
4. Build Quality and Comfort
Since I play for hours, comfort was essential. I checked for controllers with textured grips and a weight that felt balanced in my hands. The Pro Controller excelled here, but some third-party options also impressed me. Durability mattered too—I wanted a controller that could handle the occasional enthusiastic button mashing during intense races.
5. Battery Life and Charging Options
Long battery life was a big plus. The official Pro Controller lasts about 40 hours on a single charge, which I found fantastic. Some third-party controllers offered rechargeable batteries with USB-C charging, which is convenient. I avoided controllers that required disposable batteries to save cost and hassle.
6. Price and Value
Budget was a factor for me. The Pro Controller is pricier but felt worth it for the quality and reliability. Joy-Cons are included with the Switch, so no extra cost there. Third-party controllers vary widely in price—I aimed for a mid-range option with good reviews rather than the cheapest available.
7. Aesthetics and Design
Since Mario Kart is all about fun, I enjoyed looking at controllers with cool Mario-themed designs or colors matching the Switch. While this wasn’t a dealbreaker, it added a bit of personal flair to my gaming setup.
Final Thoughts
After weighing all these factors, I went with the official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe because of its comfort, battery life, and reliability. However, if you’re on a budget or want portability, the Joy-Cons or a well-reviewed third-party controller might be great choices too.
I hope my experience helps you find the perfect controller to enjoy Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on your Nintendo Switch!
Author Profile
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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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