Types
There are technically 4 different Nintendo Wii controllers. The first controller, called the Wii Remote, is the default controller for the system. This controller is usually played vertically and features a directional pad, a large "A" button, a back "B" button, two numbered buttons and two buttons used for menus and options.
The second controller is the Nunchuk, an expansion for the Wii Remote. The Nunchuk is a directional analog joystick, with two back buttons that are labeled "C" and "Z". This is used only when the Wii Remote is being used.
The third one is the "Classic Controller." This looks like a flatted out PlayStation 2 controller featuring two analog sticks, four lettered buttons, a directional pad and two top buttons. This controller is activated by plugging it into the Wii remote.
The fourth controller option is using an old GameCube Controller. GameCube controllers are compatible with all GameCube games that you play in the system and many recent Wii games that do not require interactivity.
Features
The Wii Remote is great for any game involved interactivity. For example, Wii Sports is best played on the Wii Remote, because it offers the most comfort when doing all of the different sports.
The Wii Remote is also used for any classic games that are downloaded into your Nintendo Wii. To use it for the classic games, you simply turn the remote horizontally and use the 1 and 2 buttons as the "A" and "B" of a regular Nintendo or Sega Genesis.
Function
The Wii Remote can also be expanded into different add-on accessories. For sports, you can adapt your remote into a golf club, tennis racket and a baseball bat. For Zelda, there is a special gun kit that your remote has a spot for, and there are steering wheels available for any driving games like Mario Cart racing.
Benefits
The best time to use the Classic Controller or GameCube Controller is when you want to sit and relax from doing physical activities with the Wii remote. Some games also work better with these controllers instead of grappling two controllers in separate hands.
Size
All of the Wii controllers are relatively small, and the biggest you may come across is the Wii steering wheel for Mario Kart. They fit in the hands comfortablly, and the buttons are easy to press. The cord from the Wii remote to the Nunchuk may get annoying, but you can purchase a wireless adapter for the Nunchuk to make this process easier. You can also purchase wireless GameCube controllers so there is room to play when using that controller.