03/09/2020
A simple search for accessories will most likely lead you to a plethora of results which can no doubt be overwhelming. From cases to chargers to controllers, both Nintendo and third-party brands are constantly churning out new peripherals for the Switch.
To help you out, we’ve crafted this list of what we think are the best Nintendo Switch accessories that will further enhance your gaming experience. Although, as much as we love them, this list will be leaving out products that are meant for aesthetic enhancement or protection, such as cases and skins. And for full disclosure, this is not a sponsored post, but simply personal recommendations from a fellow gamer.
Anker PowerCore 20100 Nintendo Switch Edition
Let’s start with the basics. You’ve got a new (or old) Switch and, being the genre-bending, portable console that it is, you take it everywhere and probably play any chance you get. You wouldn’t want to run out of juice just as you’re finishing a boss battle, that’s why we highly recommend the Anker PowerCore 20100 Switch Edition. This Nintendo-licensed power bank has been specifically optimized for the Nintendo Switch, as the name so obviously points out, so it works well.
Utilizing a USB-C output like its dock, it can charge up the Switch pretty fast. Fast enough that you can actually play while it’s charging. At 20100mAh, it can charge the Switch 2.5 times and takes about three hours to fully charge when drained. If you don’t need to charge, it also has PowerIQ with Intelligent Device-Detection that works perfectly well for phones and tablets.
Nintendo Joy-Con charging grip
One of the main weaknesses of the Nintendo Switch is the controllers’ ergonomics or lack thereof. The thin Joy-Cons are fine when mounted on the unit but when you’re zoned out during an at-home gaming session, you’d most likely end up with cramped fingers. The Nintendo Switch Joy-Con Charging Grip will take your joy-cons and fit them into a more familiar design.
This grip is very similar to the one shipped with the switch but with one major difference: it has a charging port. This small addition makes it a worthwhile upgrade especially for those who are just starting out and not ready to commit to a more expensive controller.
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
If you’re ready to invest in something a bit more premium, your first choice will most probably be the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. This officially licensed controller may be a bit of an investment but thousands of users have already considered it a must-have addition.
Reminiscent of an Xbox controller, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller addresses the ergonomic problems of the original joy-cons and is perfect for extended gaming sessions. And since it’s an officially licensed product, you can be sure its performance will be up to par.
8BitDo Wireless Bluetooth Adapter
Now, it’s quite possible that you already own a Bluetooth controller and don’t really want to shell out for a brand new one. The 8Bitdo Wireless Bluetooth Adapter may just be the accessory for you.
Once plugged into the USB port on the Switch’s dock, you can pair and use a number of supported controllers such as PS4 or PS3 controllers, XBOX One controller, or even a Gamecube controller. Additionally, you can get headphone support from controllers like the DualShock 4 and Xbox controllers because of their onboard 3.5mm jacks.
Genki Bluetooth Audio Adapter
Another issue the Nintendo Switch has is the lack of support for wireless headphones. The Genki Bluetooth Audio Adapter aims to solve this problem by providing Bluetooth connectivity for your wireless audio.
This simple plug-and-play device that fits into your Switch’s USB-C slot allows connection for up to two wireless headphones simultaneously. And should you need to charge, this adapter comes with a passthrough charging port so you can still connect your headphones while charging at the same time.
Afterglow Deluxe + Audio Wired
Another cost-effective controller option would be going the wired route. The Afterglow Deluxe + Audio Wired offers a 10-foot long wired controller with a 3.5mm jack for wired headphones. This is the first Nintendo-licensed controller that offers a 3.5mm jack. It’s not only a lot more affordable than the Switch Pro Controller but also sports a really cool and impressive design.
PowerA Joy-Con and Pro Controller Charging Dock
Once you’ve got all your headphones and controllers, it only makes sense to get an upgraded charging stand as well. The PowerA Joy-Con and Pro Controller Charging Dock is an affordable, licensed product that’s able to charge two joy-cons and one Nintendo Switch Pro controller. It’s well-designed and allows the controllers to easily slip in and out of the dock for those quick gaming sessions.
Hori Nintendo Switch Multiport USB Playstand
The Nintendo Switch is intentionally made to be portable and, more often than not, it fulfills that intention. Unfortunately, the original Nintendo Switch dock just missed the mark in terms of portability. While it is quite small, it’s still not as travel-friendly as it could be. With the Hori Nintendo Switch Multiport USB Playstand, you get an extremely portable charging dock that’s also been upgraded with extra ports.
This officially licensed folding playstand has not one, not two, but four extra USB-A ports. This means that you can connect more peripherals than the original dock just as long as they’re compatible. You can even use this with the aforementioned 8BitDo adapter to add wireless controllers. It can also be easily adjusted into different positions so you can find the perfect viewing angle. And, of course, it similarly charges your Nintendo Switch through a pass-through USB-C port on the side.
So there you have it. Hopefully, these peripherals step up your gaming experience on-the-go. If you have any suggestions for more Switch accessories, be sure to drop by your comments below.
