When will the Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave controller be available for the Nintendo Switch 2?

The controller is planned for release in November 2025. It was announced in October 2025 as part of a new line of licensed tools for the new Nintendo system.

What makes the thumbsticks on the Afterglow Wave controller better than standard ones?

The wireless version uses TMR sticks and the wired version uses Hall Effect sticks. These parts are built to be very exact and last a long time without breaking or moving on their own.

How long does the battery last on the wireless version of the Afterglow Wave controller?

The wireless controller can stay powered for up to 20 hours on a single charge. It also works from up to 30 feet away from the console with very low delay.

Can I use the Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave controller with my PC or Xbox?

Yes, the wired version of the controller works well with PC and Xbox systems. However, it does not work with the PlayStation 5 console.

Does the Afterglow Wave controller have buttons I can change for different games?

Yes, it has two buttons on the back that you can set to do different actions. You can change what these buttons do by using a special app from Turtle Beach.

How the Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave controller improves your Nintendo Switch 2 gaming

Turtle Beach, a known name in gaming, recently announced many new items for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. These items, planned for a November release, include a range of controllers, cases, and headphones. Among these, the Afterglow Wave controller stands out as a new option for players. This report looks closely at what the Afterglow Wave offers, its design, how it performs, and its place in the market. Understanding its features helps players decide if this controller meets their gaming needs, especially as new gaming systems become available.

Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave Review – A Nice Player 2 Gamepad for Switch 2 That’s Missing One Too Many Features - 1

Product Overview

In October 2025, Turtle Beach announced a suite of licensed accessories for the Nintendo Switch 2. This collection includes controllers, carrying cases, and screen protectors (Source 1, 9). The controllers come in three main styles: Afterglow, Afterglow Wave, and Rematch. Each style has both wired and wireless versions (Source 1). The Afterglow Wave controller, a part of this new line, is shaped like the official Nintendo Switch 2 Pro controller, or a standard Xbox gamepad, aiming for a familiar feel for players (Source 1, 2, 3). It is designed to be a dependable choice, offering several features often found in more expensive options, yet available at a mid-range cost (Source 2, 4). The controller is officially licensed by Nintendo, showing it has passed strict quality and safety tests (Source 5, 6).

Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave Review – A Nice Player 2 Gamepad for Switch 2 That’s Missing One Too Many Features - 2

Design and Build Quality

The Afterglow Wave controller aims for a solid feel in a player's hands.

Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave Review – A Nice Player 2 Gamepad for Switch 2 That’s Missing One Too Many Features - 3

Weight and Shape: It feels "reassuringly hefty" and looks like a standard Xbox gamepad, according to some reports (Source 2). The wireless version weighs about 0.38kg (Source 5). Its shape is similar to the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller (Source 3).
Visuals: A key part of the Afterglow Wave is its RGB lighting. It has eight RGB zones with four preset light modes, making the controller "visually pop" and allowing for many lighting looks (Source 3, 5, 6).
Grip: Both wired and wireless versions feature textured thumbsticks and grips, helping players keep hold during games (Source 5, 6).

Key Performance Features

The Afterglow Wave offers several technical features to improve gameplay.

Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave Review – A Nice Player 2 Gamepad for Switch 2 That’s Missing One Too Many Features - 4

Thumbsticks: The wireless version uses TMR thumbsticks for smooth and exact play (Source 3, 5). The wired version uses Hall Effect sticks, which aim for better precision, quick response, and long life (Source 6, 7).
Back Buttons: Both versions have two quick-action back buttons that players can change to do different things. This customization can be done using a Turtle Beach app (Source 2, 5, 6). However, some reports note that while these buttons are good, their usefulness might vary (Source 4).
Triggers and D-Pad: The wired Afterglow Wave includes trigger stops with three settings, letting players change how far they need to press the triggers (Source 4). For the D-pad, opinions differ; some found it to feel "great," even for those who usually dislike 8-way D-pads (Source 4). Others did not "particularly like" it (Source 7).
Audio and Chat: The wired controller has a 3.5mm headphone jack for sound and chat, with audio controls on the D-pad (Source 6). Both versions have a "C button" for GameChat functions (Source 5, 6).
Motion Controls: The wireless Afterglow Wave includes built-in motion controls, adding to the immersive feel of games (Source 5).

Compatibility and Connectivity

The Afterglow Wave controllers offer broad compatibility within the Nintendo Switch family and beyond.

Nintendo Switch Systems: The controller works with the Nintendo Switch 2, as well as older models like the original Nintendo Switch, Switch Lite, and Switch – OLED Model (Source 5, 6).
Other Platforms: The wired Afterglow Wave controller works well on many platforms, but it does not work with the PlayStation 5 (Source 2). It is also a choice for PC and Xbox players (Source 7).
Wireless Range: The wireless version connects with low delay up to 30 feet away and has a battery life of up to 20 hours on one charge (Source 5). The wired version comes with a 3-meter USB cable (Source 6).

Market Position and Value

The Afterglow Wave controller is often seen as a good choice for its price.

Budget-Friendly: Reviewers describe it as an "affordable but dependable controller" and a "feature-rich wired option on a mid-tier budget" (Source 2, 4). It is seen as a way for gamers to get good features without spending too much money (Source 4).
Features for Price: It includes options "that you wouldn’t normally see on a controller in this price range" (Source 2). This makes it a strong contender for those looking for value.

Expert Analysis

Experts note the Afterglow Wave offers a solid package, especially for its price point. Its feel, the quality of its thumbsticks (TMR or Hall Effect), and its customizable lighting are often praised. The addition of mappable back buttons and, in the wired version, trigger stops, adds value not always found in controllers at this cost. However, some players might find the D-pad design less than ideal for all game types. The absence of certain advanced features common in more expensive controllers, while expected for a budget-friendly device, might be a point of consideration for players expecting every possible function. Overall, the controller seems to be a reliable choice for players seeking good performance and a custom look without the highest price.

Conclusion

The Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave controller, available in both wired and wireless versions, appears to be a well-built option for Nintendo Switch 2 players and other platforms. Its official Nintendo license confirms its quality. The controller offers a comfortable, sturdy feel and bright RGB lighting. Key features include advanced thumbsticks, customizable back buttons, and in the wireless model, motion controls. The wired model adds trigger stops and direct audio connections. While generally praised for its strong features at a good price, some reports note concerns about the D-pad. The controller aims to offer many good options without the cost of premium controllers. It presents itself as a valuable choice for players looking for a reliable and visually striking gamepad for the Nintendo Switch 2 and other gaming systems.