Hardware Mobapad M6 HD Review

First released in 2017, the Nintendo Switch is arguably on its last leg. Sure, there is no official word of a successor, so this makes the hybrid device Nintendo's current-gen system. But rumors have been building up around a "Switch 2", with recent leaks providing some convincing glimpse at the Switch's imminent end as Nintendo's current-gen system.

This has nevertheless not deterred accessory manufacturers from coming up with new products this late in the Switch's lifespan. CRKD has made excellent Nitro Deck docks and now Mopapad is offering the Mobapad M6 HD. We'll take a closer look at this Joy-Con replacement in this review.


The Mobapad M6 HD retails for $80 on the official Mobapad website and comes with the following items:


There's also the option to include a hard carry case, with the bundle costing $97. If you use your Switch while travelling, then it might be worth considering getting the carry case as it fits the Switch with the Mobapad M6 HD attached. There is also cartridge slots and an inner compartment to store some accessories.


Some of the specs of the Mobapad M6 HD are as follows:

• Omron mechanical keys
• ALPS dual-axis linear motors
• Six-Axis Motion Sensing
• NFC Support
• Supports Bluetooth connection
• Replaceable Directional Discs
• Omron Microswitches

The Mobapad M6 HD stands out from other Joy-Con alternatives, and indeed from official Joy-Cons themselves, with its modularity. Each half has swappable faceplates for both form and function. Mobapad sells panels of different colors and the base package also includes faceplates with different shapes of the joystick outlet. There is a regular circular one and a Gamecube-like octagonal one that can provide greater precision or feedback when reaching for diagonals. Changing panels is very easy as they are held by a magnetic mechanism; and can be quickly popped in and out.


Also modular is the D-pad. Mobapad has included a retro-styled D-pad and an Xbox-styled one in the package. These cater to various playstyles and preferences; and it's great to find them included in the package, instead of having to buy them separately.

I'm all in for modular designs and was thrilled to find them in a Switch accessory as they can prolong the longevity of the accessory. But while they were at it, Mobapad could also have made the other buttons replaceable in case of damage, or just for customization.


Attention has been paid with the ergonomics of this device. It fits neatly in the hands, with every button accessible. It is also curved and textured at the back to provide better grip. The rear features mappable back buttons which are always great to have for a custom playstyles. The M6 HD slides neatly into the Switch's rails and is held firmly, with no wobbling in sight.

As for the overall plastic shell, it feels nice in the hands and not cheap. These replacements do provide added heft to the Switch, compared to the original Joy-Cons, and also make the handheld wider. These are small compromises over what the device can offer while in use.



As far as functionality goes, the Mobapad M6 HD is a net improvement over virtually every aspect of the original Joy-Con. Just like the latter, the M6 HD supports motion control, NFC and Bluetooth connectivity but it has some extra features.

The device has mappable back buttons and supports extensive macros. The back buttons can be remapped with the companion app, while the macros can be programmed on the device itself; but it can be a bit finicky. Having an option to map the back buttons without the need of an app would also be welcome.

However, the app is not officially listed on Google Play or the App Store and has to be downloaded on Mobapad's website. This can lead to security concerns. That said, the range of customization is very welcome and makes the Mobapad M6 HD among the most customizable Joy-Con alternatives out there.


Once you have configured the controllers to your liking, the buttons are very responsive and accurate. They are noticeably clicky, likely as a result of the Omron microswitches used. Personally, I'm not much of a fan of the audible feedback, and would prefer a softer option. That said, opinions will vary about this.

With Hall effect-based joysticks, stick drift anxiety is a thing of the past and they deliver a nice feeling in use. Having back buttons is a personal must as keys such as R/L and R3/L3 are more accessible. The built-in 2*500mAh batteries also provide ample gaming time of up to 15h.



All things considered, the Mobapad M6 HD is a compelling Joy-Con alternative. They have all features of the originals and come packed with extra ones on both hardware and software fronts. It's just a shame that it comes so late in the Switch's lifespan.

But then again, if you have some failing Joy-Cons, these are definitely worth considering as replacements. My only qualms are with the dodgy third-party app and the audibly clicky buttons.

This accessory also bodes well for the Switch successor, if recent leaks are to be believed, as Mobapad can transfer its expertise to the new device which looks like it will also have controllers akin to Joy-Cons.