The Nintendo Switch 2 is here, but we can’t just forget about the original Switch. We’ve still got love for the console, and its many millions of owners, so we’ll keep recommending the best controllers for the Switch right here.

Now, you may already know that the best Switch controllers aren’t the ones that come with the console. The removable Joy-Cons included with all non-Lite Switch consoles are convenient, given they can be detached for wireless use for up to two players with a pair, but their tiny shape doesn’t do them many favors. They aren’t comfortable to hold for long gaming sessions — especially if you have large hands. And, you’re definitely not alone if you’ve experienced Joy-Con drift.

In this buying guide, we’ll focus on wireless controllers that are both comfortable and reliable, as well as a few options that come with unique features designed that may match your unique play style. We’re not covering wired controllers that plug into the Switch’s dock here, as they’re mostly similar to each other and don’t offer substantial savings in many cases. (PowerA and PDP make decent ones that will do in a pinch, but they’re very basic. Unless you detest recharging your controllers, it makes more sense to go wireless.)

Also, if you buy a third-party wireless controller (as in, one not made by Nintendo), it likely won’t support HD rumble, motion controls, NFC for Amiibo, or be able to wake the Switch remotely. However, there are exceptions, which we feature below.

If you’re playing your Switch while docked, it’s hard to go wrong with the official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. It’s the only traditional gamepad that includes every feature mentioned above, and it’s one of the most satisfying controllers to use that we’ve tested. The GuliKit KingKong 3 Pro and Max, meanwhile, offer more exhaustive customization, while the Hori Split Pad Pro is a Joy-Con upgrade for those who prefer to play in handheld mode. Then there’s 8BitDo’s PC-friendly Ultimate Bluetooth Controller and DualShock-esque Pro 2 controller, both of which are worth checking out.

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Best for TV mode: Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

The Switch Pro Controller remains tough to beat, even to this day. It offers an unmatched set of features — including motion controls, NFC, and HD rumble — and is one of the most comfy gamepads available.

Where to Buy:

• $69.99 at GameStop
• $69.99 at Best Buy
• $69.99 at Target

Best for handheld mode: Hori Split Pad Compact

Much like the Split Pad Pro, the Compact version is bigger than the standard Joy-Con, making the Switch more comfortable to hold. The Compact, however, is smaller and more colorful.

Where to Buy:

• $49.99 at Target
• $49.99 $45.99 at Amazon
• $49.99 at Hori

The best Nintendo Switch controller for TV mode

Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

Pros	Cons
High quality, sturdy build Supports HD rumble, gyro motion, and NFC Long battery life Mobile and PC compatibility	On the pricier side

Where to Buy:

• $69.99 at GameStop
• $69.99 at Best Buy
• $69.99 at Target

Supported platforms: Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PC, Steam Deck, mobile, Apple TV / Connectivity: Bluetooth, wired / Connector type: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: No / Software customization: No / Rumble: Yes, HD / NFC: Yes / Motion: Yes / Power: Built-in rechargeable / Console Wakeup: Yes (but not the Switch 2)

Ever since the Switch launched, Nintendo’s first-party Pro controller has been the best gamepad for the console. In many ways, it rivals the standard models from Sony and Microsoft in terms of comfort and build quality. And, it’s compatible with the Switch 2 (although it can’t wake the new console from sleep — you’ll need a Switch 2 Pro Controller for that).

Aside from the Joy-Cons, the Switch Pro Controller is the only wireless option that includes HD rumble, gyroscopic movement support, and an NFC reader for Amiibo cards and figurines. It’s one of a few controllers we’ve tested (aside from the Joy-Con and 8BitDo’s Ultimate series) that can power on the Switch without being plugged into it. The gamepad is built like a tank, and its battery life is so good that it sometimes seems like it’ll never run out. Nintendo says that it lasts around 40 hours per charge, so it’ll likely take casual gamers a long time to run down the battery.

The buttons and triggers have a satisfying bounce, while its directional pad is responsive and clicky enough to satisfy retro gamers. The controller charges via USB-C, just like the Switch, and it’s compatible with a slew of other platforms you might game on, aside from Xbox and PlayStation.

Given the high price, we wish that it had other features, like programmable buttons or a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio, even if wireless audio transmission from the Switch to a controller isn’t possible. If you really want the ability to listen via wired headphones without connecting your controller with a wire, you’ll need to get the Switch 2 and its Switch 2 Pro controller.

The best Switch controller for handheld mode

Hori Split Pad Compact (Pokémon Gengar)

Hori’s Joy-Con alternatives offer a roomier, comfier grip for your Nintendo Switch in handheld mode without the added bulk of its Split Pad Pro version. They also feature two customizable rear buttons and are offered in multiple colors and designs but do not support rumble or Amiibo figures.

Where to Buy:

• $59.99 at Amazon
• $59.99 at Walmart
• $49.99 at Hori (plain blue)

Supported Platforms: Switch, Switch OLED / Connectivity: Wired / Connector type: Joy-Con slots / Mappable rear buttons: Yes / Software customization: No / Rumble: No / NFC: No / Motion: No / Power: via Joy-Con slots / Console Wakeup: No

I’m sure there are some people who enjoy using Joy-Con controllers, but kids and small-handed folks aside, most people probably wouldn’t say they’re the most comfortable option. If you struggle with hand pain when you use the Switch, that’s where the Hori Split Pad Compact comes in.

The Split Pad Compact is a — you guessed it — a more compact alternative to the Split Pad Pro, which has unfortunately become tougher to find. Similarly, it comes in a variety of colorways, and it adds comfort to using the Switch in handheld mode. One half slides into each side of the Switch console like Joy-Cons, but unlike Nintendo’s default controllers, Hori’s gamepad features big, easy-to-reach buttons and generously sized triggers and analog sticks, all of which feel great in play. It also provides more grip than Joy-Con do, which is particularly useful for people who need to get a better handle on the console for fast gameplay or stay comfy over longer play sessions.

The Split Pad Compact doesn’t have batteries or sensors — or support for rumble, motion, IR, or NFC — so it’s completely useless when detached from the Switch. It’s only for handheld mode unless you purchase the Split Pad Compact Attachment that turns it into a wired controller. We don’t recommend most people go that route since the attachment usually (but not always) costs more than a Switch Pro Controller, which is a shame considering it doesn’t add any of the aforementioned features. It does add a 3.5mm headphone jack, however.

Read our Hori Split Pad Compact impressions.

The best Xbox-style controller for the Switch

GuliKit KingKong 3

Pros	Cons
Great ergonomics with Xbox-style shape Deep customization options Hall effect sticks and triggers Supports HD rumble, NFC, and motion Wide platform compatibility	Lacks companion app for customizations

Where to Buy:

• $59.99 $44.99 at Amazon (Pro, save 10% at checkout)
• $79.99 $62.99 at Amazon (Max, save 10% at checkout)

Supported Platforms: Switch, PC, Steam Deck, mobile, Apple TV / Connectivity: Bluetooth, wired / Connector type: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: Yes / Software customization: No / Rumble: Yes / NFC: Yes / Motion: Yes / Power: Built-in rechargeable / Console Wakeup: Yes

On the surface, the GuliKit KingKong 3 Pro and KingKong 3 Max are similar to the last-gen models they replaced, which took design cues from Microsoft’s standard Xbox controller but rivaled the Switch Pro Controller in terms of build quality and features. We tested them on the Nintendo Switch, PC, and mobile, but you can also use them with other Bluetooth devices, including the Steam Deck and Apple TV 4K.

But there are several notable improvements and additions if you scratch deeper. They each have Hall effect dual-mode triggers (both can switch between analog and digital, but the KK3 Max exclusively adds physical trigger stops), in addition to RGB LED-surrounded Hall effect analog sticks. It should make them virtually impervious to drifting and waning responsiveness, as iFixit explains here. They each have GuliKit’s powerful magnetic vibration motors with two intensity levels and three distinct modes (including the Switch’s HD rumble). You can even customize the hot-swappable face buttons to match your preferred platform, and to the delight of tournament players, you can play with a 1,000Hz polling rate for reduced input lag on PC (wired or wireless via a dongle).

Additionally, both controllers feature detachable rear-facing paddles. You get two metal moon-shaped paddles with the KK3 Pro that protrude further from the controller than the extra four you get with the KK3 Max, which are longer and curved to match the contour of the controllers’ rear grips. The latter are similar to the paddles on the Xbox Elite Series 2 and even borrow the same installation technique — just push them into the designated holes on the back. They require a lot more force, though they won’t easily dislodge. 

The longer paddles are comfortably reachable once installed, but if you have larger hands, you may need to make adjustments for the shorter variety. They only need a light tap, but since they occupy the space where your fingers usually rest, it can lead to increased misfires while gaming. You can map each back button to emulate any other button on the controller — including the rear triggers — but you can’t configure them to execute combo presses or macros.

In summary, the KK3 Pro and KK3 Max offer a lot for the money. In fact, there may be no better option for interoperability and value in a single multiplatform controller right now. If we’re nitpicking, our biggest gripe is that GuliKit still hasn’t created an app to manage all of its settings more easily.

The best Switch controller that’s also great for PC and Steam Deck

8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller

Pros	Cons
Ergonomically similar to the Switch Pro controller Uses GuliKit Hall effect sticks Wirelessly compatible with mobile and PC Shake to wake Switch	Lacks NFC Battery life falls short of Nintendo’s official gamepad

Where to Buy:

• $69.99 $49.99 at Amazon
• $69.99 $49.99 at Walmart
• $69.99 $50.99 at Best Buy

Supported Platforms: Switch, Switch 2 (with update), PC, Steam Deck, mobile, Apple TV / Connectivity: 2.4GHz, Bluetooth, wired / Connector type: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: Yes / Software customization: Yes / Rumble: Yes / NFC: No / Motion: Yes / Power: Built-in rechargeable / Console Wakeup: Yes

8BitDo’s Ultimate Bluetooth Controller feels like a Switch Pro Controller in shape, with a similarly short grip profile that larger hands may not prefer. Both share Switch and Windows PC support, but 8BitDo gets a leg up with full Steam Deck compatibility. Its haptics are decent but not as good as Nintendo’s, and it’s missing Amiibo support, though it does feature customizable back paddles and motion controls — along with a hidden trick that allows you to wake a docked Switch by giving the controller a little shake.

It also comes with a charging dock, which stores the 2.4GHz dongle when not in use. The included dock is handy for charging the battery. Speaking of, it typically lasts around 22 hours, which is still pretty generous but comes well short of the 40-hour mark set by Nintendo’s official controller.

The Ultimate controller comes in several variants, but we recommend the Bluetooth model over the 2.4GHz or wired options for a couple of reasons. One because it’s the only version of the Ultimate that’s compatible with the Switch. Plus, it includes both 2.4GHz connectivity and GuliKit Hall effect sticks, which the 2.4GHz-only version lacks. The analog sticks offer just the right amount of resistance and sport a comfortable concave top, but they’re just a tad short on the sides. All of the buttons offer great travel, though, and the analog triggers have a satisfying amount of resistance when pulled.

As for tweaks, you can customize button mapping profiles, macros, vibration intensity, and stick and trigger sensitivity using the Ultimate Software app on mobile or PC. The controller has a dedicated button that lets you swap between three profiles on the fly, plus an extra turbo button you can either reconfigure or remap. When it comes to Switch controllers, 8BitDo sets the standard for the breadth of these options and how to access them, which is another reason it’s high on our list.

A well-rounded Switch controller that looks like a DualShock

8BitDo Pro 2 Bluetooth Gamepad

Pros	Cons
Nostalgic design and layout Hall effect analog sticks Remappable buttons, including back paddles Available in a variety of translucent colors	Lacks NFC Larger hands may feel cramped

Where to Buy:

• $49.99 $42.99 at Amazon
• $49.99 $42.49 at Best Buy
• $54.99 $44.99 at 8BitDo (special edition)

Supported Platforms: Switch, Switch 2 (with update) PC, Steam Deck, mobile, Apple TV, Raspberry Pi / Connectivity: Bluetooth, wired / Connector type: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: Yes / Software customization: Yes / Rumble: Yes / NFC: No / Motion: Yes / Power: Built-in rechargeable / Console Wakeup: No

The 8BitDo Pro 2 is another great option with Hall effect sticks for the Nintendo Switch, especially if your hands are happiest with a PlayStation-style controller layout. The Pro 2 has a comfortable grip, a crisper D-pad than the Switch Pro Controller, and two easy-to-press paddle buttons on the underside.

It has rumble support (though not HD rumble) and motion control for games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Overwatch 2, both of which allow for gyroscopic aiming. PlayStation gamers will also appreciate that the left analog stick is located toward the bottom — just like on Sony’s controllers — rather than above the D-pad as on the Switch Pro.

With 8BitDo’s Ultimate software on a mobile device or a Windows computer, you can customize the Pro 2’s button mapping and the sensitivity of its triggers and analog sticks. You can even save up to three control scheme profiles and cycle through them with a button located between the analog sticks.

On its rear, there’s a switch that lets it toggle between Nintendo Switch, X-input for PC, DirectInput, and macOS modes, each with its own control customizations and Bluetooth profile. This controller offers a lot for around $40 (or slightly more if you want one of the incredibly cool translucent blue, purple, or green editions).

Read our 8BitDo Pro 2 review.

An adapter that lets you use your own controllers

8BitDo Wireless Bluetooth USB Adapter 2

Pros	Cons
Inexpensive Allows you to use any Bluetooth controller	Requires sourcing your own controller Only works in docked mode

Where to Buy:

• $19.99 at Amazon
• $19.99 $18.99 at 8BitDo
• $19.99 at Best Buy

There are many other devices that allow you to use third-party controllers, but 8BitDo’s might be the best value. Instead of spending $70 on multiple Switch Pro Controllers, the $19.99 8BitDo Wireless Bluetooth USB Adapter 2 lets you turn a Bluetooth controller you already own into a wireless Switch (or Switch 2) controller. It plugs into your Switch dock and supports a wide variety of models, from the latest Xbox and DualSense controllers to last-gen gamepads for the Wii and PlayStation 3. (Note: the first-gen model can’t connect to most Xbox Bluetooth controllers due to a Bluetooth incompatibility, so make sure you get the latest model.)

To our surprise, the PS5 DualSense controller we tested it with worked incredibly well, with better-than-average rumble and more responsive motion controls than many dedicated Switch controllers offer. What’s more, so long as you’re using one of the newer Xbox Series X or S controllers, an Xbox One Bluetooth controller, a DualSense, a DualShock 4, or the Switch Pro Controller, you can customize their button mapping, analog stick sensitivity, and more within 8BitDo’s computer and mobile app. 

8BitDo has an extensive support page that lists the steps required to set up your specific controller, as well as which features of those controllers it supports. That said, it’s best if you know the Switch’s button layout by heart if you plan to use either a PlayStation or Xbox controller with this adapter, as the layout on your controller will not match the on-screen prompts in games.

If you already have a controller you really like and don’t mind jumping through a few small hoops to connect it, 8BitDo’s affordable adapter deserves a spot in your entertainment center. If you plan to use more than one third-party controller at a time, you’ll need an adapter for each controller (and a USB hub), but if you have a lot of controllers sitting around, it might be worth it.

Other Switch controllers we tested

Nitro Deck / Nitro Deck Plus

We like CRKD’s Nitro Deck around here. It’s a cradle-style controller that holds the Switch between a pair of Hall effect sticks, outfitting it with a standard array of face buttons, four programmable back buttons, turbo functionality, gyro motion controls, and rumble. It has passthrough charging, though not passthrough video, which would allow it to double as a dock for TV gameplay. The step-up Nitro Deck Plus adds said functionality (with a USB-C to HDMI adapter), along with Bluetooth connectivity and adjustable vibration intensity / analog sensitivity. We’ve found these to be notable improvements, but we wish the passthrough solution was more elegant and that CRKD could solve the ergonomics (particularly on the right side, where the analog and button placement can cause discomfort).

GameSir T4 Cyclone Pro

We recently tested the GameSir T4 Cyclone Pro ($49.99) for consideration. It offers a few of the same functions as the GuliKit KingKong 3 — including remappable buttons, Hall effect sticks, and two distinct macro buttons — along with dedicated vibration motors in the triggers, which is something the GuliKit doesn’t match. That said, it falls just short due to mushy-feeling buttons. GameSir considers the extra padding under the buttons a feature that makes the impact softer, but we felt it takes away from the experience. Also, although it’s perfectly usable with the Switch, the Pro’s button labeling takes after Microsoft’s, which may not be ideal for those who have trouble memorizing inputs. We also found resyncing with the Switch to be a chore after switching from a mobile device or a Windows PC.

PowerA GameCube Style Wireless Controller

We also recently tried several wireless PowerA controllers, including the GameCube Style Wireless Controller ($59.99) and a Pikachu-themed version of the standard PowerA Enhanced Wireless ($44.99). We like the fun design of PowerA’s controllers, but they don’t live up to the quality of the models we recommend above, which is a shame considering some cost nearly as much. The GameCube-style wireless controller is a pretty faithful recreation of the original if you fancy a pure Super Smash Bros. experience, but it’s barebones with no rumble, NFC, or IR. It’s an easy way to get the old-school feeling back if you don’t already have a Bluetooth-based alternative to use with 8BitDo’s USB Adapter 2.

What’s coming next?

We’ll be testing both the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 and the Pro 3 controllers, which are compatible with the Switch and Switch 2, among other platforms. We’re also getting our hands on the EasySMX S10 controller.

Update, July 24th: Updated to reflect current pricing / availability. We’ve swapped the Split Pro Compact in as the best controller for handheld mode, swapping out the bulkier Split Pad Pro that’s tougher to find in stock at the moment. Also, we’ve added a mention of the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 and Pro 3 controllers we intend to test soon.

A glass screen protector is one of a few “set it and forget it” purchases that every Switch 2 owner should make, along with buying a microSD Express card and a protective case for the console. In fact, it should be a priority to stick one onto the console’s screen as soon as possible to avoid accidental scratches. 

I’ve been installing and removing Switch 2 screen protectors to test others on my console at an alarming rate, more than any sane person should, and here are the most important takeaways:

• Do not buy a flimsy plastic screen protector. They won’t protect your Switch 2 enough.
• It’s impossible to tell different brands’ protectors apart once they’re on your screen; product packaging and the installation process are the biggest differences (as well as the key factors that increase cost).
• Some protectors are glossy and some are anti-reflective, each with its own tradeoffs. For my money, glossy is the way to go. The matte finish looks good, but it reduces the screen’s vivid quality and its viewing angles.

Of the options below, it’s easiest to recommend amFilm’s three-pack of glossy screen protectors. Not only is the pack incredibly affordable ($7.19 from Amazon at the time of publication), but the tray also allows for perfect alignment of the glass protector for easy, bubble-free installation. I’ve used this company’s screen protectors on various gadgets for years, and I particularly like its glossy option over the matte finish, since it lets the Switch 2’s screen fully shine through.

amFilm three-pack of glossy screen protectors

My go-to screen protector brand for years has been amFilm. Three glossy tempered glass sheets come in the box, and the tools make installation fairly simple. JSAUX’s model is just as good based on my testing, and just as affordable.

Where to Buy:

• $8.65 $7.19 at Amazon

amFilm OneTouch two-pack of glossy screen protectors

In keeping up with some brands that offer faster installations, amFilm offers a two-pack of glossy protectors that includes a “OneTouch” tray. Remove the protector’s bottom film, attach the tray to your device, and then press gently on the protector until it’s fully applied.

Where to Buy:

• $15.99 $8.48 at Amazon

Dbrand Prism 2.0 two-pack of glossy screen protectors

Dbrand’s Prism 2.0 includes two glass protectors for the Switch 2, each nestled into plastic cases that fit perfectly around the edges of the console (with the Joy-Con 2 removed). $34.99 is expensive for two protectors, but if simplicity and elegant packaging trump value, then this is a good option.

Where to Buy:

• $34.95 at Dbrand

Genki Aegis Shield two-pack of glossy screen protectors

Genki offers a cheaper alternative to Dbrand with the Aegis Shield. It includes two protectors, and the installation process is nearly identical: just align the plastic frame with the console, pull the tab, and run your finger across the exposed section of the frame. Spigen makes a similar product that costs $24.99 for a two-pack.

Where to Buy:

• $19.99 at Amazon
• $19.99 at Genki

amFilm two-pack of matte screen protectors

Let’s start with one of the most affordable options if you want to go the matte-textured route. AmFilm sells a two-pack of protectors at Amazon for $8.99. The set includes a plastic frame that serves as a guide to align the protector just right. JSAUX makes a similar product that’s the same price.

Where to Buy:

• $12.99 $8.99 at Amazon

amFilm OneTouch two-pack of matte screen protectors

AmFilm also sells a two-pack with a OneTouch frame for easier installation. Again, keep in mind that opting for matte over glossy will reduce glare, but at the cost of viewing angles as well as the full vivid quality of the Switch 2’s screen. That’ll be an acceptable tradeoff for some, but not all people.

Where to Buy:

• $15.99 $12.34 at Amazon

What’s coming next?

JSAUX is launching a new screen protector in August called the Obsidian AR. I’ll be testing one soon. The company claims that it offers vastly better glare resistance as well as enhanced brightness and color accuracy compared to standard protectors.

Update, July 24th: Adjusted prices as needed, and included a “What’s coming next?” section.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 launch Friday, July 25th. That’s soon! Even if you’re not the type of person who usually pre-orders things, there’s good reason to consider doing it before then. The biggest perk is that you’ll get upgraded to the 512GB version of either device without paying the usual $119.99 premium, and trade-in values will be better before the launch versus after. The ability to get more for less expires at the end of tomorrow, July 24th.

As you might expect, each retailer and carrier is doing things a little bit differently with pre-orders. Of all your options, buying directly through Samsung may be the way to go. If you have a trade-in, you can save about half off your new device. If you aren’t trading up, you can instantly get $350 in Samsung credit to buy a Galaxy Watch 8, or something else.

My colleague Allison Johnson recently published her review of the Z Fold 7. Its biggest flaw is just how darn expensive it is, costing $1,999.99 for those who aren’t trading or taking advantage of a carrier promotion. If you can get past that (hopefully, you find a deal that works for you), this is as polished as foldable phones come these days. Stay tuned for her review of the Z Flip 7.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7

It costs a pretty penny, but the Z Fold 7 is Samsung’s finest foldable yet. When it’s closed it’s basically the size of a regular phone, so the big 8-inch inner screen feels like it’s all upside.

Where to Buy:

• $1999.99 at Samsung
• $1999.99 at Amazon
• $1999.99 at Best Buy

Other deals we think you’ll like

• If you want a smart lock that doesn’t look like a smart lock, the Level Lock Plus is a solid option. It has no branding, and it supports Home Key, letting you unlock it by holding your compatible iPhone or Apple Watch nearby. Its original $329 price made it tough to recommend to most people, but there’s a stellar bundle available on Level’s site that includes the Level Lock Plus (Wi-Fi), plus a physical keypad that can unlock it for $228. It’s a savings of $180. Read our review.
• Nearly all of Belkin’s cables, cases, and charging gadgets are 20 percent off for Verge readers through July 31st. Enter the code VERGE20 to save on your cart, but keep in mind that this offer excludes new products (including its great Switch 2 charging case) and refurbished products. What’s more, you can get free shipping on orders over $75. In case you need some ideas on what to get, its Pro Thunderbolt 4 Dock drops from $299.99 to $239.99, and its iPhone MagSafe laptop mount that lets you turn your phone into a webcam via Continuity Camera on a Mac Laptop is $23.99, down from $29.99.
• Costco is offering a wild discount to members on the 49-inch Samsung G91SD curved QD-OLED gaming monitor. While other retailers including Best Buy have knocked it down to $799.99, you can snag it for $200 less at Costco (originally $1,299.99). That’s not bad at all — in fact, it’s nearly as affordable as most flat 27-inch models with similar specs. The G91SD features a 32:9 5,120 x 1,440 QD-OLED panel with 110 pixels per inch (not great, but not terrible), and up to 144Hz refresh rate with G-Sync and FreeSync Premium Pro compatibility. It features two HDMI 2.1 ports and a single DisplayPort 1.4 port. If you’re alrighty with a curved display, this deal essentially puts two 25-inch OLED monitors side-by-side on your desk. What’s more, it has a three-year warranty that protects against burn-in and other defects.

The forthcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7 is Samsung’s thinnest foldable yet. Our own Allison Johnson just published her full review ahead of the phone’s launch on July 25th, and while there’s certainly no denying it’s a spendy device, know that various carriers and retailers are offering a host of preorder incentives, many of which will expire at launch.

Although the Z Fold 7 isn’t miles ahead of last-gen Z Fold 6 in terms of performance, it measures just 8.9mm thick when folded, making it look and feel like something of a next-gen foldable. The outer screen has also increased in size from 6.3 inches to 6.5 inches, which, when taken into account alongside its thickness, makes the Z Fold 7 feel more akin to a normal phone when folded. Alas, if only it had a “normal phone” price tag instead of an exuberant starting price of $1,999.

That being said, it’s still possible to save on a preorder purchase, or at the very least receive some credit you can then spend on accessories like the Galaxy Watch 8. Whether you plan to shop directly through Samsung, your carrier, or a traditional retailer, here are the biggest promotions along with the key details you’ll want to keep in mind.

You can get up to $1,100 in trade-in credit

The current trade-in savings are big enough to chop the Z Fold 7’s $1,999.99 price tag in half. Ahead of its release on July 25th, Samsung is offering up to $1,000 in credit for the last-gen Z Fold 6 and S25 Ultra — or less, if you’re trading in an older phone. Samsung will give you an instant discount based on the estimated value of your trade-in, which lowers the out-of-pocket cost to $999.99. That’s great, and thankfully, you can get instant trade-in credit even if you’re activating the phone on Verizon or AT&T through Samsung’s site. But that’s not how trade-in credit works if you’re buying directly through carriers.

Carriers across the board are currently offering a $1,100 trade-in credit toward the Z Fold 7, which will be paid back in the form of monthly installments. AT&T will provide $1,100 in credits over 36 months to customers on postpaid unlimited plans who purchase the new phone with an installment plan. As for the phones that AT&T is currently accepting, they include any Galaxy S, Note, and S-series phone, regardless of its age or condition.

Verizon is also offering up to $1,100 in monthly credits over 36 months with an eligible trade-in in “any condition,” although the carrier doesn’t list or even mention any eligible phones. You must also be on an Unlimited Ultimate plan to get that much credit.

T-Mobile is offering up to $1,100 in monthly credits for those auto-paying for a plan that costs $85 or more per month — no trade-in required.

Samsung is offering a lot of bonus credit, with a small catch

If you’re preordering directly through Samsung, you will receive a $50 Samsung credit to use on accessories as an extra perk. Those who aren’t trading in a device will get an extra $300 to spend, totaling $350. However, the credit is “use it or lose it,” so to speak; you’ll forfeit it all if you don’t use it at checkout. So, if you do go this route, you’ll want to pick up a pair of earbuds, a case, a Galaxy Watch 8, etc etc.

Keep in mind that the aforementioned credit is exclusive to Samsung’s online storefront and isn’t available when purchasing the Galaxy Z Fold 7 through a carrier, Best Buy, Amazon, or any other retailer.

Not all carriers are offering a free storage upgrade right now

Some retailers, but not all, are offering the 512GB Z Fold 7 for no extra charge through July 24th. This includes Samsung, T-Mobile, Best Buy, and Amazon, the latter of which is also throwing in a $300 Amazon gift card with each purchase. However, AT&T and Verizon aren’t, at least through their respective sites. They each are offering the 256GB model at the same $1,999 price that you can get the 512GB model for elsewhere. That said, activating the Z Fold 7 via Best Buy will allow you to purchase the 512GB variant for $1,899.99 as a one-time payment (or as a $55.55-a-month payment for 36 months).