- Nintendo's Switch is a versatile handheld gaming console, and a few key accessories can make it even better.
- Our picks for the best Nintendo Switch accessories include controllers, wireless headphones, and portable essentials.
- See also: The best Nintendo Switch deals available now
The Nintendo Switch is one of the most innovative gaming consoles of the past decade and one of the highest selling, with more than 50 million units sold since March 2017.
The handheld includes a dock that will let you play on the big screen in your living room when you're not on the go, and features two removeable wireless controllers, called Joy-Cons, for multiplayer games. The Switch also has some of the most popular games around, with iconic exclusives like "Super Mario Odyssey,""Animal Crossing: New Horizons," and "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild."
The Switch already provides a great experience whether you're playing at home or using it as a portable, but a few key accessories will help make the Switch even better. Of course, there are hundreds of available accessories for the system, but we've narrowed down our list to the essentials.
Note that most of these accessories are designed to work with the standard Nintendo Switch and dock rather than the cheaper Nintendo Switch Lite. The Switch Lite requires smaller screen protectors and cases than the standard Switch, and accessories designed for the Switch Joy-Cons or dock will not be compatible with the Switch Lite. However, wireless controllers and MicroSD cards will still work with the Switch Lite.
Here are the best Nintendo Switch accessories:
- Best Nintendo Switch controller: Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
- Best Nintendo Switch power bank: Anker Powercore 13400 Nintendo Switch Edition
- Best Nintendo Switch microSD card: Samsung Evo Select 256GB
- Best Nintendo Switch carry case: RDS Industries Nintendo Switch Deluxe Carrying Case
- Best Nintendo Switch headset: SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless
- Best Nintendo Switch screen protector: amFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector
- Best Nintendo Switch charging dock: PowerA Joy-Con and Pro Controller Charging Dock
- Best Nintendo Switch Joy-Con alternative: Hori D-Pad Controller
- Best Nintendo Switch Joy-Con grip: MoKo Grip
- Best Nintendo Switch retro controller: PowerA GameCube Style Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch
- Best Nintendo Switch wired internet adapter: UGreen USB 2.0 Ethernet Adapter
The best Nintendo Switch controller
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is the best controller for playing Switch games on a TV.
Pros: Excellent battery life, HD rumble support, motion control, compatible with Nintendo's Amiibo collectibles
Cons: More expensive than third party controllers and standard Xbox and PlayStation controllers
The Joy-Cons are intended to be the Nintendo Switch's primary controllers, but Nintendo also launched an updated version of its Pro Controller alongside the Switch in 2017.
The Pro Controller has the same layout as the Joy-Cons but much larger analog sticks and buttons, including a full directional pad. The Switch Pro Controller's rechargeable battery lasts more than twice as long as the PlayStation 4 and PS5 controllers, and it's USB-C compatible.
While its starting price is a bit higher than the competition, Nintendo's official Pro Controller also has some advantages over third party picks. The Pro Controller supports Nintendo's Amiibo collectibles and the Switch's enhanced HD rumble feature, unlike the otherwise excellent 8BitDo SN30 Pro+.
For more Switch gamepad recommendations, check out our guide to the best Nintendo Switch controllers. — Kevin Webb
The best Nintendo Switch power bank
Extend the Switch's battery life with the Anker Powercore 13400 Nintendo Switch Edition so that your gameplay doesn't get interrupted.
Pros: Licensed by Nintendo, compact, fast charging (USB-C Power Delivery), USB-C cable included, can be used with phones and some laptops
Cons: Pricey compared to other power banks with similar or larger capacities, no fast-charging wall adapter included
According to Nintendo, the battery life on the original Nintendo Switch (2017) is approximately 2.5 to 6.5 hours, while an updated version (2019), with more efficient power usage, yields about 4.5 to 9 hours; the Switch Lite averages between 3 to 7 hours. If you're an avid gamer and you have all the settings on high — brightness on high and Wi-Fi enabled, for example — you should bring along a portable USB power bank to lengthen the battery life. Our pick is the Anker PowerCore 13400 Nintendo Switch Edition.
You might be thinking, can't you use any power bank since they are all the same? No: Because of the significant amount of power the Switch draws (more so when it's in use), you need a power bank that supports USB-C Power Delivery (PD) fast charging. As for capacity, you would want as your budget allows; 10,000 mAh should be the minimum. And, you'll need a USB-C-to-USB-C cable.
Considering speed, capacity, and price, we like Anker's PowerCore 13400 Nintendo Switch Edition. Switch-brand licensing aside, the battery is rated to support the full amount of power that the Switch draws. You can expect between 3 to 4 hours of playtime, depending on settings; it has a capacity of 13,400mAh. There's no way to neatly attach the battery to the back of the Switch, but the PowerCore 13400 Nintendo Switch Edition is compact enough for travel. The power bank also works with smartphones and other portable devices and comes with a USB-C-to-USB-C cable. When used with a PD power adapter, the power bank recharges in about 4 hours, but the adapter is optional.
There aren't many portable batteries specifically designed for the Switch. The few we found either came from unfamiliar brands or had batteries that were too small, not to mention pricey. For your money, we didn't feel they were worth considering and you'd get more value out of a standard power bank, as they can also be used to recharge phones, tablets, and other small USB-powered devices.
We also didn't consider power banks that use Qualcomm's Quick Charge technology, since the Switch does not support it. We want to note that you could theoretically use a power bank you already own, but unless it supports fast charging, it may not deliver the performance that's needed. However, it's probably fine for recharging overnight when you're not playing.
The big downside might be the cost. For around the same price or less, you can usually find higher-capacity USB-C PD power banks, including ones from Anker, like the PowerCore Essential 20000 PD. If the Nintendo certification doesn't matter to you, opt for something less expensive — just use a reliable brand with a good warranty. On a positive note, Anker's power banks tend to be value products. We have used them for years and found them to be reliable and perform well.— Les Shu
The best Nintendo Switch microSD card
The Samsung Evo Select 256GB is the best microSD card for expanding the Switch's measly internal storage.
Pros: Great value for a high-capacity card, meets Nintendo Switch's speed requirements for SD cards, durable
Cons: None
The Switch's 32GB internal storage can fill up almost instantly with individual major games taking up anywhere between 10 to 20GB of space. We recommend the Samsung Evo Select 256GB microSD card as an essential purchase for any new Switch buyer.
The Samsung Evo Select 256GB microSD card adds eight-fold more storage to the Switch and should comfortably hold a large collection of AAA, retro and indie games. Samsung's card is rated with 100MB/s read and 90MB/s write speed, which should enable shorter game load times over lower performance cards.
While you could do with a 128GB card initially, if you plan on buying mostly digital games, then you would be better served going with the larger-capacity 256GB card since it costs only slightly more and is more future proof.
SanDisk makes a Nintendo-licensed microSD card. It has specs which are similar to our pick but often retails for a higher price. Pass on this and save the money unless you really want the card with Mario art on it. — Siladitya Ray
The best Nintendo Switch carry case
The RDS Industries Nintendo Switch Deluxe Carrying Case is a sturdy hard case with room for a Switch, Joy-Con controllers, and game cartridges.
Pros: Hard exterior, room for Switch and eight games, built in kickstand for gaming on the go
Cons: Not large enough to carry the dock and other accessories
The RDS Industries Nintendo Switch Deluxe Carrying Case is an officially licensed case that protects a Nintendo Switch and accessories with a hard, water-resistant exterior.
The case is available in multiple designs apart from the standard black that includes artwork from Mario, Zelda and Splatoon 2. Besides the Switch with Joy-Con controllers attached, there's room for up to eight games in two separate plastic cases, cables, two SD cards, and other small accessories. We also like that the screen-protecting cushion doubles as an adjustable kickstand for gaming while on the road. There's also a carry-handle. — Siladitya Ray
The best Nintendo Switch headset
The SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless is the best headset for Switch gaming on the go for its price and versatility.
Pros: Comfortable, light, stellar battery life, great audio for gaming
Cons: Plastic build quality, occasional interference due to Wi-Fi signals.
SteelSeries is known for making great gaming headsets, and the Arctis 1 Wireless continues that tradition. The wireless headset comes with the same drivers that were present on our previous pick, the SteelSeries Arctis 7, offering immersive audio and a wide soundstage. The cushioned ear cups make it comfortable to use during extended gaming sessions.
The SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless comes bundled with a USB-C transmitter dongle that plugs into the Switch and allows you to connect the headphones wirelessly to the Switch. The Arctis 1 uses 2.4GHz wireless on its dongle instead of Bluetooth to connect to the Switch, which ensures that there is no noticeable lag and crystal-clear audio. While in console mode, the dongle can be connected to the Switch's dock using an included USB-C to USB-A adapter.
Priced at $100, the SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless lacks the premium build quality that you would expect from top shelf SteelSeries headphones, but the plastic-clad device is adequately sturdy for regular use. The design aesthetic is unassuming and doesn't scream "gamer", making it more versatile for use with other devices, like your phone. The most impressive part is that the headset lasts for 20 to 22 hours on a single charge, which is close to three times the Switch's average battery life.
One downside of the 2.4Ghz band used by the headset's dongle is that you may deal with occasional choppiness in an area crowded with Wi-Fi devices, but this shouldn't be an issue for most people. — Siladitya Ray
The best screen protector
The amFilm Tempered Glass screen protector protects the display from dings and bumps.
Pros: Thick, two in the box, inexpensive
Cons: Thickness makes it noticeable
As with any portable device, the screen on the Nintendo Switch can be easily scratched if it isn't properly protected — like throwing it into a backpack. For a strong, protective screen protector, we recommend the amFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector.
It's a little thicker than other screen protectors, at 0.3 millimeters, which makes it harder to cut through it. In the box, you get two screen protectors — if one gets damaged, there's another one to replace it — and wet wipes and microfiber cloth to clean the screen before applying the protector.
The downside: Given the thickness, it's more noticeable than other screen protectors. — Christian de Looper
The best controller charging dock
Charging Joy-Con and Pro controllers is relatively easy with the PowerA Joy-Con and Pro Controller Charging Dock.
Pros: Charges Joy-Con and Pro Controllers, well-designed, inexpensive
Cons: Wire is flimsy
While the Joy-Con controllers can be recharged when attached to the Nintendo Switch, it's more convenient to use the PowerA Joy-Con and Pro Controller Charging Dock. In addition, if you own the Pro Controller, it will recharge that too.
The dock is a great way to keep things organized. It looks basic, but it complements the Switch dock. It is also cheaper than many other charging docks for the Nintendo Switch, and, if you care about such things, it's officially licensed by Nintendo.
In our test, the dock works well, but the included USB-C cable for charging the Pro Controller isn't very strong. — Christian de Looper
The best Joy-Con alternative
The Hori D-Pad Controller is perfect for 2D platformers, NES and SNES games while on the go.
Pros: Cheap, fairly solid design, the best way to play 2D-platformers in handheld mode
Cons: Lack of wireless, rumble and motion controls
Despite being loaded with sweet features, the Switch's Joy-Con has one major flaw: the lack of a true D-Pad. Every single one of Nintendo's previous consoles came with its iconic plus-shaped D-Pad, but the Switch's unique design did not allow for the same. The Hori D-Pad Controller, which replaces the left Joy-Con, helps fix that flaw as it comes with a directional pad.
The Hori D-Pad Controller is frugal by design, and comes with no wireless connectivity, no rumble, no motion control and no battery. It only works when it's connected to the left rail of the Switch in handheld mode. Despite these limitations, the controller is simple to use and delivers precise directional inputs.
The precision of a D-Pad is immediately evident if you play a lot of 2D side scrolling or fighting games. Games like Sonic Mania, Metal Slug, and Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap are ideal to play using the controller. The peripheral also shines when used with NES and SNES classic games that come bundled with the Switch's online subscription. If you want to speed-run classic Mario in handheld mode, the Hori D-Pad Controller is your best weapon.
Other parts of the controller are well designed too, the analog joystick and both shoulder buttons work just as you would expect on an original Joy-Con. The assembly feels sturdy but significantly lighter than a real Joy-Con as it lacks a lot of the additional wireless, gyroscope and rumble hardware that add heft.
The Hori D-Pad Controller is officially priced at $25, which makes it significantly cheaper than the $80 Nintendo charges for a pair of new Joy-Cons. Additionally the gamepad is officially licensed by Nintendo, and is available in three separate designs; a black-and-gold Zelda version, a red Mario version and a yellow-and-black Pokemon version. — Siladitya Ray
The best Joy-Con controller handles
The MoKo Grips turn your Joy-Con controllers into console-style controllers, making them easier to hold and more convenient for multiplayer games.
Pros: Comfortable, inexpensive, great for multiplayer games
Cons: Not for games that require vertical use of Joy-Con controller
The Pro Controller we recommended is more conducive to console-style gaming, but if the price is a turn-off or you just don't want a bulky controller, stick with the Joy-Con controllers but add this affordable accessory, the MoKo Grip.
Coming in a pack of two, the grip, made of resin, is a sleeve that you wrap around a Joy-Con controller, giving it handles that make holding a Joy-Con more comfortable. It also has left and right buttons trigger buttons. There are plenty of similar products like this, but we like the MoKo because it provides a better fit.
Having tested the MoKo Grips, we find them to enhance the experience of playing multiplayer fighting games like "Super Smash Bros." where you would want a tighter hold on the controller as you mash those buttons, as well as lengthy solo gameplay like "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild."
Where the grips don't work are games where you need to use the controller vertically, like "Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!" or "Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee." Also, it's not an improvement over the Pro Controller since they don't offer those large buttons and analog sticks, but it's an affordable upgrade nonetheless. — Christian de Looper
The best controller for 'Super Smash Bros. Ultimate'
The PowerA GameCube-style Wireless Controller looks and feels like the original, but works better.
Pros: Feels like original GameCube controller, wireless, great for "Super Smash Bros. Ultimate"
Cons: Expensive, AA batteries instead of rechargeable, no rumble
"Super Smash Bros. Ultimate" is an immensely popular Nintendo Switch game, and die-hard fans swear by a controller for an old Nintendo console that actually came out in 2001: the GameCube. Nintendo took notice — so much so that it introduced a GameCube controller for the Switch specifically for "Super Smash Bros. Ultimate," which is now hard to come by. If you don't own an old GameCube controller (you can use it with the Switch via an adapter), you can get a third-party option, like this licensed product from PowerA, the GameCube Style Wireless Controller.
This controller looks identical to the classic GameCube controller, but it has extra buttons for the Nintendo Switch: home, plus, and minus. Apart from that, you get the large "A" and shoulder buttons that make this controller popular with gamers. Since it works over Bluetooth, no wires are required. Unlike using an original GameCube controller, this one has motion controls.
While the controller works with nearly all Switch games, it doesn't have the rumble function. And, it's powered by two AA batteries instead of a rechargeable one; PowerA claims 30 hours of gameplay, so either have spares handy or use rechargeable AA batteries. Another downer: It's expensive. — Christian de Looper and Les Shu
The best Nintendo Switch wired internet adapter
The UGreen USB 2.0 Ethernet Adapter is the best wired internet solution for Switch owners seeking a more reliable and faster connection while the console is docked.
Pros: Enables a better internet connection when the Switch is docked, affordable
Cons: Requires slightly more setup than simply relying on a Wi-Fi connection
Nintendo officially recommends that Switch owners access the console's online features via Wi-Fi. That recommendation makes sense — a wireless connection doesn't care if the Switch is being used in TV mode, portable mode, or kickstand mode — but Wi-Fi isn't always ideal.
Luckily the Switch does support a wired connection when it's docked. That is, as long as you use an Ethernet-to-USB adapter, like the UGreen 20254, to bridge the gap between the console and your network.
That extra setup can be worth the hassle, though, especially if you play a lot of games online. Wi-Fi is great when you want to be able to play no matter where you are in your home, and it complements the Switch's versatility well. But, sometimes wireless connections are less reliable and slower than their wired counterparts. Those drawbacks can lead to increased download times as well as potentially game-breaking performance issues in online titles.
Wired connections don't suffer from those problems, which is why Nintendo's Masahiro Sakurai recently told"Super Smash Bros. Ultimate" players that the best way to improve performance for online battles was to use an Ethernet adapter. Having a more reliable connection leads to better performance in competitive games like "Smash," faster downloads from the Nintendo eShop, and improved experiences in games that feature significant online components.
Here's the good news: There isn't a significant difference between adapters. Some cost more than others, sure, but most offer similar performance. It's kind of like buying an expensive HDMI cable. Sometimes it's necessary, but the reality is that most people will be content with any cable that meet's the relevant standards (USB 2.0 and Ethernet in this case). Don't feel pressured into buying the most expensive Ethernet-to-USB adapter for your Switch.
That's why our pick for the best Nintendo Switch wired internet adapter is the UGreen 20254. It's an affordable and versatile adapter, with support for many other devices besides the Switch. Swapping it out if you decide you don't need that competitive edge in "Smash" should be a cinch. Just remember that you'll have to supply your own router and Ethernet cable as well.
Setting up the adapter is as easy as plugging an Ethernet cable into the appropriate port on your router, connecting that cable to the adapter, and then plugging the adapter's USB 2.0 cable into the USB port on the official Nintendo Switch dock. The console should automatically switch between the wired connection when it's docked and a Wi-Fi connection when it's not. — Nathaniel Mott