The Best Nintendo Switch Accessories
As opposed to the other members of the "Big Three" video game hardware manufacturers, Nintendo has always tended towards interactive games as opposed to triple-A blockbuster shooters. Given that flavor of product design, one of the most exciting aspects of owning a Nintendo Switch is mixing and matching it with the countless accessories available. With that in mind, we have gathered a few of our favorite Switch accessories for your review, so take a look and see what you think.
What to Look For
When it comes to shopping for accessories for your Nintendo Switch, there is no universal standard for determining the best of the best. There are a huge variety of Switch accessories available, and which is right for you will depend on your own needs and preferences. If you’re looking to play your Switch more like a conventional gaming console, an accessory like the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller may satisfy your wants. Similarly, if you’re looking to extend the life of your device and shield it from wear and tear, a screen protector like the one from AmFilm is an absolute necessity. There are plenty of other options, though, so read on to find the one that’s right for you.
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Control your destiny
While Nintendo’s unique product designs are a major selling point for their loyal fans, not everyone is comfortable playing with a non-standard game controller. With this in mind, Nintendo released its Switch Pro Controller, a cause for jubilant celebration from Nintendo’s fanbase. The Switch Pro Controller offers ultimate handling with ergonomic grips and responsive joysticks. Once you’ve had time to get a feel for the controller, you’ll quickly realize the buttons’ spacing makes gameplay more fluid and commands easier to execute, making this choice worth every penny.
Pros:
- Despite its comparatively bulky size, the built-in motion sensors are impressively accurate for games that use gyroscope aiming, like Mario Kart and Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
- If you have kids or you’re as clumsy as us, you’ll be pleased to know that this controller takes quite the beating. Even after several dings and drops, it’s still working.
Cons:
- The trigger buttons are not pressure-sensitive.
AmFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector for Nintendo Switch
Temper your expectations
When you’re gaming, you don’t want to just protect your pride — you want to protect your Switch, too. This tempered glass screen protector is ultra-thin, scratch-resistant, and won’t ruin your touchscreen’s sensitivity. Whereas many screen protectors are difficult to install, this one is easy-peasy. And most importantly, with a 9H surface hardness, this is a formidable opponent for any would-be cracks or scratches.
Pros:
- We were happy to note that if you crack your screen protector, it comes with a backup.
- It was a relief to see that the included cleaning wipes don’t leave any fibers, dust trails, or streaks.
Cons:
- Air bubbles may develop under the screen protector during the installation process, but they’re easy to remove as long as you follow the instructions.
Nintendo Joy-Con
Jump for joy
If your game of choice calls for a controller that can function as a steering wheel, tennis racket, or golf club, the layout of traditional gamepad controllers can be less than ideal. Luckily, Nintendo has consistently led the pack when it comes to breaking with controller-design orthodoxy, and the Joy-Con controllers are no exception. While a pair of these controllers come included with every Switch, adding a new pair will allow you to recruit new players into the multiplayer fun. Each Joy-Con comes with a safety strap for interactive gaming and can be docked into a Joy-Con grip to turn these two lightweight tools into one fully functional controller for ultimate accessibility.
Pros:
- The joysticks may be small, but we thought they were very responsive, which is essential for platform games.
- Despite its size, this controller really can rumble.
- While this has nothing to do with functionality, we loved the diversity of colors available for the Joy-Con.
Cons:
- The D-Pad positioning for individual use is awkward for some, but you probably won’t even notice it over time.
Orzly Protective Carry Case for Nintendo Switch
Just in case
Look, you don’t need us to explain why it’s important to invest in a case for your Switch. But where we might be of use is explaining why this one is the one for you. Designed with a rigid EVA shell on the outside and soft material on the inside, this case was created to protect your Switch from whatever life might throw at you while you’re in transit. Whether you’re going across the street or the world, this one’s storage compartments are ultra-useful. With enough room to fit multiple Joy-Con controllers, games, cables, and other accessories, the storage of this case combines with the rugged build to make this a purchase you don’t want to pass up.
Pros:
- For the price, this case is strong enough to handle drops and falls.
- It can hold a lot of games and accessories, but it’s compact enough for backpacks and small suitcases.
Cons:
- The case is too small to hold Pro controllers, but it can carry two pairs of Joy-Cons.
Ponkor Docking Station for Nintendo Switch
Don't forget the dock
Whether you’re looking to buy a new dock to replace the original one you got with your Switch or you’re looking to add another to your home, this is a great option. By docking your Switch here and connecting the right cables, you can display your Switch’s screen onto your TV or monitor. The docking station is designed with ventilation holes to keep the console cool and conserve battery, and it does this effectively. You can also use the dock to charge your Switch — even while you’re in-game. Thanks to its compact build, you can bring the dock along with you to a friend’s house quite easily, too.
Pros:
- Unlike Nintendo’s official docking station, the Ponkor fits in the smallest of spaces, making it perfect for dorm rooms, offices, and crowded entertainment centers.
- Because of its size, we found the Ponkor the ideal docking station for travel. You can throw it in your case or even use it on the airplane as an alternative to the shaky Switch kickstand.
Cons:
- A cable isn’t included, so if you want to use this to charge, you’ll need to supply your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular Nintendo Switch games?
If you’ve ever played on a Nintendo console in the past, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to know that nearly all of the franchises available in past generations have been given reboots on the Switch. Game-night classics such as Super Smash Brothers and Mario Party have new super-popular releases. And if fantasy RPGs are more your speed, the Legend of Zelda: Breath of The Wild is still one of the most sought-after titles, even several years after its release. If you’re not as accustomed to Nintendo-based releases, don’t worry: popular titles such as Minecraft, The Elder Scrolls Skyrim, and even Doom 3 are available for your gaming pleasure, too.
How can I protect my Nintendo Switch?
Unlike traditional gaming consoles, the Nintendo Switch should be cared for similarly to any mobile other device. In fact, the Switch has more in common with a tablet than it does with an Xbox. First and foremost, protecting the screen and body from cracks and falls is paramount. Once you’ve installed a proper case and screen protector, the next two points you should focus on are the charging port and buttons. Both of these parts can lose their efficacy over time due to the collection of dust and debris. Regularly cleaning the port, buttons, and triggers with compressed air should ensure proper functionality well into the future.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.