8 must-have Nintendo Switch accessories for better gaming

By Vikka Abat-Francisco

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.

Philips Ultinon Access lights are easy-install, halogen-like LEDs, now available in PH

A look inside the Ferrari showroom in the Philippines

TP-Link Wi-Fi 7 devices are coming this month

Fujikina MNL 2024: Photo walks, workshops, and X100VI showcase

Roadtrip essentials for your next adventure

05/04/2023

Whether a short trip or an overnight drive, a roadtrip with friends or family or even just by yourself is an experience worth having. And with modern technology, there are more ways than one to make the trip more comfortable, more convenient, and, in the end, more memorable.

1. Dashcam

Whether you’re driving alone or with passengers, safety should always be a priority. And what better way to stay safe than to have extra eyes on the road?

This particular dashcam set comes with two cameras — front and rear — and can be connected to your smartphone for easy viewing and transfer of footage. It also comes with a bunch of useful features like 24-hour parking monitor, built-in GPS, and emergency recording so your whole trip is covered if ever you get into an accident.

@themoderncreatures A front and rear dashcam that’s connected to your phone? That’s the DDPAI Z40. #dashcam #dashcamfootage #dashcamvideos @ddpai.dashcam ♬ original sound – The Modern Creatures

2. Portable jump starter

Another device for safety. And while you may possibly not need a portable jump starter, you’ll be glad to have one when you do.

A portable jump starter can save you from being stranded if your car battery dies. It’s a convenient and easy-to-use tool that can get you back on the road quickly. And this particular one even doubles as a power bank that can also charge your devices.

3. Phone mount

A proper cradle or mount not only adds convenience but also makes for a safer drive.

There are many options to choose from and you can pick the mount that’s best for you. You can go for a suction cup mount that you can put on your dashboard or windshield or you can get one that you can insert into the aircon vents.

The latter is useful in cooling down your phone if ever you’re using nav apps like Waze, too.

4. Cameras

There are many kinds of cameras that can use for your drives.

Want to get the whole picture? You can opt for action cameras like the Insta360 X3 or the GoPro Hero11. Not only can you take advantage of wide-angles and long recording, but you also get a lot of versatility from action cams like these.

You can mount them on the windshield, windows, and even on the vehicle itself. Just make sure to grab a reliable suction mount so they don’t fall off.

But if action cameras are not for you, you can always opt for smaller, easy-to-learn cameras like the Sony ZV-E10 or Canon EOS R50.

Looking for something even simpler? Grab yourself a smartphone with an amazing camera system like the Samsung S23 Ultra. You can even pair that with a stabilizer to get more impressive shots for your socials.

5. Electric cooler

Snacks are essential during a road trip. Beat the summer heat or just have a refreshing cold drink anytime by upping your roadtrip game with a fancy electric cooler.

This particular one is robust enough to store not just drinks but even fresh food like fish or meats. This is great if you’re the camper type or maybe wamt to store cold or frozen souvenirs on the way home.

6. Portable car audio

What’s a roadtrip without good music? And you can easily make your car audio sound better with the JBL BassPro Go.

What makes this worth the investment is the fact that it doubles as a portable speaker too. When attached to your vehicle, it acts as a subwoofer but you can easily take it out and use it as a regular Bluetooth speaker. And it sounds great too.

7. Multi-purpose indoor/outdoor charger

These days having a charger is pretty much a necessity. And while your vehicle may have its own charging ports, there may not be enough for everyone.

This multi-purpose charger is good investment because you can use it both in your car or as emergency backup for your home in case of power outages.

Unlike your ordinary powerbank, this particular charger can even power laptops, projectors, and even rice cookers if you plan on camping outdoors. There are multiple input options including USB ports and AC ports and even has a built-in lamp for emergencies.

Final thoughts

With the proper gadgets and devices, you can be equipped to handle whatever you may encounter on the road, There are tons of modern-day devices that can help you with various aspects of the drive. Whether it’s for navigation, comfort, or even for safety, you can make your adventure more memorable and less hassle-free.