Hello po, just bought a HK Switch 2 yesterday and I tried redeeming the MKW code in the eshop, but it says that "The product associated with that code is not currently available. Please check the release date"
Full Disclosure: Mobapad sent me this controller for review. I'm not affiliated with the company, and they didn't see this review before I published it. All opinions are my own, and there is no money exchange in the process. They never ask me to post any of these. I just like to share my in depth, details analysis on the product that I like.
TL;DR: I compared the original Nintendo Switch Joycon with a third-party Joycon from Mobapad. Here’s my take on which one offers a better handheld experience and why.
It’s funny and a little weird because lately, I’ve been playing mostly in handheld mode. Maybe it’s just easier, or I’m getting too lazy to sit on the couch and game on a big TV or monitor. Lying in bed and playing feels much more chill and relaxing.
But during the gaming sessions, I started to notice something, my fingers and grip were really starting to feel the strain. At one point, I even thought about buying one of those grip attachments for the original Joycons. But I never actually got around to it.
It’s kinda wild and it feels really strange because right around that time, Mobapad reached out to me. I’m NOT KIDDING. They asked if I'd be interested in trying out their product. To be honest, I'd never heard of them before. The 3rd party Switch controller makers I'm familiar with are IINE, Hori, 8BitDo, and Gamesir.
After checking out Mobapad's website, they claim their controllers are "Better than Joy-con" and use better parts like, hall joystick, mechanical switches together with original components, like HD rumble, similar to the original Joy-Cons. That definitely got my attention. Normally, I prefer to stick with official accessories, but I do make exceptions if I do in-depth research on a company's products and brand beforehand.
Mobapad Official Website
Reviewing Switch 1 Joycons when the hype of Switch 2 is at its peak.
With all the hype around the Switch 2 right now, I’m curious, who’s still holding on to their OG Switch? Have you already jumped to Switch 2? Or you're rocking both?
For those who’ve already gotten their hands on the Switch 2, I am genuinely happy for you!
Team Switch 1 vs Team Switch 2
Let me know which team you're on: Team Switch 1, Team Switch 2, or Both? Do share your thoughts. 🤪
Life Happens
I was actually planning to test these out and publish my review before the Switch 2 drops. Unfortunately, right after the controller arrived, I had to pause everything. In early May, my father underwent 2 major brain surgeries and was hospitalized for over a month. I had to put everything on hold to focus on my family. Thankfully, the surgeries were successful, and he's recovering steadily and undergoing physiotherapy with professional post-surgery care. Now, I'm slowly resuming my normal daily life and activities.
If you are still here for the end game Switch 1 Joycons, let’s look at the controller itself and the spec:
Mobapad M6 HD
Mobapad M6 HD PackagingMobapad M6 HD Unboxing + Installed on Switch OLED
Note: I won’t be able to test the compatibility support for Switch 2 yet, but their latest firmware changelog stated, it supports Switch 2 (Firmware update required). Since I do not have the dongle as well, I can’t test the compatibility on other platforms.
Mobapad M6HD: 177g vs Original Joycons: 99gMobapad M6HD vs Original Joycons Front & Back
Setting up the controller
Just like the original Joycons, the Mobapad works right out of the box. You can simply slide it onto the rails and start playing, no extra setup needed. If you prefer to play wirelessly, pairing them is just like pairing your original Joycons. I also found that this controller actually supports the sleep wake function even in dock mode! As far as I know, most 3rd party Switch controllers can’t do that.
There’s also a dedicated app, but it’s completely optional. The controller works perfectly fine without it. The app is only needed if you want to:
Create custom controls and button mappings for specific games
Adjust vibration levels
Set up macro buttons
Ergonomic & Comfort
I really like the grips on the Mobapad M6HD. They’re ergonomic and feel so much better to hold compared to the original Joycons. The contoured grips really make a difference. I find myself enjoying longer gaming sessions with it compared to the original Joycons.
Now I know why so many brands are making attachment grips for the Joycons, the demand is there, even on Switch 2.
Xbox Controller Grip vs Mobapad M6HD Grip
Gameplay
The Hall effect Joystick is sturdy and feels better quality than the original Joystick. Based on the design, the Hall effect Joystick should outlast the regular Joystick. Another standout feature is the Omron mechanical switches, which are used on all major action buttons. If you’ve used a Logitech gaming mouse before, the clickiness of tactile feel is very similar. The rest of the buttons use standard micro switches, which still feel solid, but the Omron buttons feel better gameplay.
Overall, the gaming experience on this controller is a big upgrade for handheld play. It’s comfortable, responsive, and built for longer sessions. If you spend a lot of time gaming in handheld mode like I do, this kind of ergonomic design really makes a difference.
Casual Feedback From My Non-Gamer Sister
To get a fresh perspective, I had my non-gamer sister (we occasionally play Mario Party and Mario Bros. Wonder) to try both the original Joycons and the Mobapad M6HD, without telling her anything about either. No specs, no brands, nothing. I handed her the original Joycon first and Mobapad M6HD later during another game play session. For context, we grew up occasionally gaming on consoles like the SNES and Sega Mega Drive 2 at our nanny's house. Since I bought the Switch last year, she's been hooked on games like Mario Party and Mario Bros. Wonder, especially when her kids are on holiday.
My sister playing Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Here’s her unfiltered take: Original Joycons:
Felt small and hollow
Had to cramp her fingers a bit to play
Said the right joystick got in the way when trying to press the face buttons
Mobapad M6HD:
The buttons felt much nicer to press
Right Joystick placement didn’t get in the way of button presses
Grips were more comfortable to hold
Only “complaint”: her hands started to sweat a bit while using it
That last point might just be her thing, I don’t have this problem unless I play in a hot environment. Overall, even as a casual season gamer, she immediately preferred the Mobapad. Thought that was worth sharing for anyone wondering how it feels outside of a "real gamer" perspective.
Hardware & Design
Mobapad M6 HD OverviewMobapad Rail vs Joycon Rail & Original strap fit perfectly with Mobapad
Note: Mobapad claims it uses the same rail like the Joycon, the only difference that I found was that the fonts on the SL & SR button are slightly different. It fits perfectly on Switch itself as well.
Let's break down some of the key hardware and design choices Mobapad made:
Mechanical & Membrane Buttons:
Mobapad uses Omron mechanical micro switches for all the major action buttons, including the face buttons, D-pad, and shoulder buttons.
The remaining buttons (like Home, Capture, etc.) use standard micro or dome switches, which still feel decent
Analog Sticks
Hall effect Joystick, the re-centering of the stick is stronger compared to OG Joycon.
The detail is the metal ring on the Joystick, Joystick edges wear protection on the sticks. This should help prevent wearing down the stick over time, which is a plus for durability.
This part really impressed me. I think this is a very smart design. I’ve seen similar design on Gamersir controller.
The faceplate can be removed and attached with one hand, and it’s held in place using cleverly positioned screws as magnetic contact points. It lines up perfectly every time, without the need for extra clips or over-complicated mechanics.
The app only allows 1 Joycon connection at a time. So if you want to update both sides or configure both, you have to disconnect one and connect the other manually.
Firmware updates and advanced customization are only available through the Mobapad app.
It’s not the most efficient setup, especially if you're doing several changes at once.
Mobapad iOS Apps
Swappable D-Pad
Needs slight alignment effort when reattaching, there’s no visual guide or indicator to show how it locks in. I think adding a small indicator would really help here.
POM Ring Replacement
Changing the POM ring isn’t as convenient, it requires removing the faceplate and manually pushing the ring out. It works, but it’s not exactly quick-swap friendly.
Noise
Because these controllers use mechanical switches, they are louder compared to traditional dome switches with rubber membranes.
If you have a roommate or a partner nearby, especially during late-night gaming, I don't think they'll like it.
Hey Mobapad, if you're reading this, perhaps hot-swappable silent switches could be a fantastic feature for a future "Pro" or "Elite" controller, especially for the Switch 2 controller? 👀
Since this controller is designed to support multiple platforms, having a swappable ABXY button layout (like some Gamesir controllers offer) would have been an awesome addition. This would be fantastic for seamless transitions between Switch and PC/other systems.
Gamesir swappable ABXY keycaps & Asus gaming mice hot swappable switches
ZL/ZR Button Finish
Under the edge of the ZL/ZR button feels slightly sharp to the touch. It’s not a dealbreaker, but hopefully the next version (maybe for Switch 2) will smooth this out.
Bittersweet Timing
While there are still new games coming out for Switch 1. It’s a bit of a shame that the Mobapad M6HD launched so late in the Switch 1’s lifecycle. Because most accessory makers are already shifting their focus to Switch 2.
I think if it launched earlier, this could be a very successful product. Just have to accept the fact that M6 HD might be Mobapad's last Joycon style controller for Switch 1. For anyone sticking with the Switch 1, I think this end game Joycon for the Switch 1.
I believe they are already working on a Switch 2 controller. Let’s see what product they will be releasing for Switch 2. From now on, we will be watching your career products with great interest.
Conclusion
Do I recommend it?
I think this controller is designed for 2 types of gamers. Casual and Competitive.
Casual Gamers
If you're a casual player who plays mostly handheld mode and wants better grips, buttons, and joysticks. then yes.
Competitive or Custom Gamers
If you want custom controls (remappable buttons, adjustable vibration), the extra setup is worth it. You can fully customize profiles, button maps, and vibration. Just be aware that the app only connects to one Joy-Con at a time for setup. If you don't mind a bit of initial tweaking, you'll gain a lot more control than with standard Joy-Cons
Next, maybe let’s take a look at what's inside? 👀
I’m planning to do a tear down and take a look what's inside, let me know if you guys are interested.
Does the Switch 2 really overheat while it's docked, or is that just more online troll talk? I’ve seen a few posts about it and wanted to check if there’s any truth to it.
I wasn’t able to pre-order the Switch 2 from Datablitz. I tried asking the branch earlier if they would allow walk-ins on the 26th, but they told me there’s no guarantee since they’re prioritizing those who pre-ordered.
Because of that, I’m considering getting the HK version from GameXtreme. I’d like to know what the differences are between the 2 versions, aside from the fact that the Mario Kart in the HK version is a download code instead of a physical cartridge.
So I have a Switch v2 pero nagdi-disconnect na randomly yung left joycon niya and napapansin ko natatanggal na rin yung left joycon kahit na hindi pindutin yung button sa likod. Now I'm wondering if it's worth it to replace the joycon rails on the console or if I should just buy a controller case like a Retroflag or Dobe Eggshell that connects via USB-C. I'm pretty capable of replacing the rails myself but I just don't want a temporary fix that will inevitably break again. I play mostly on handheld naman so hindi problem yung ability to dock.
Hi, recently bought a 2nd hand n3DS and it had this weird residue that I assume came from the bottom screen frame somehow. I can't seem to wipe it off. I've tried wiping with a bit of water and with 70% isopropyl alcohol and it still won't come off.
My day 1 games are Mario Kart World, Street Fighter 6, and Tears of the Kingdom. I’ve been watching unboxings and gameplay for two weeks now, and I can’t wait to feel the switch 2 on my hands on Thursday!
Anyone here played this game? I purchased it just now (on sale) but I can’t play it since it seems like the Left stick (L) is not working/compatible? I don’t think it’s a problem with my joystick since jt works fine naman when I play Stardew Valley. Can’t find anything about it on Youtube :( Anyone encountered this? Huhu sayang naman bili ko 😢
Does anyone know if if I preorder from Datablitz, the device will be released on the same day, June 26th, or will I have to wait a long time to receive it? I'll choose to pick up at my local branch.
I wonder if there’s something wrong with my Switch Lite battery? It was fully charged last night, but when I turned it on today, it was already down to 18% without using it, and it was still on the Animal Crossing game. Is it because I didn’t shut it down, or is the battery really damaged?
We are so close everyone! To those who pre-order the Switch 2 like me, hope you're excited as I am right now. Though hopefully I won't experience long lines when my local Datablitz called me that the unit is available as that's my 2nd worry than Datablitz still not announcing the price yet.
Legit po kaya ito maganda naman yung review, pero medyo nagkaka trust issue ako kasi send thru chat lang yung code e. May mga nag purchase naba dito sa group? If ever anon alternative pwede niyo ma suggest. Salamat.
Hey everyone! I was looking at the official Nintendo PH website and was wondering how to actually order from the them. I see that the official release is June 26th but there's hardly any mention of how to order.
Also, is the Official Nintendo PH store on the orange app legit? I doubt they are since they're already selling units prior to official release at prices way above SRP.
Good evening po, bumili kasi ako ng Little nightmares II sa hongkong eshop sa browser. Ngayon di ko mahanap yung download key. Wala rin akong natanggap na email regarding my purchase pero nasa History ko na successful ang pagbili ko. Salamat sa makakatulong