From precision controllers by 8BitDo to sleek Hori docks and durable Samsung Skull Co. cases, the right accessories can completely reshape how you play on your Nintendo Switch. Here’s how the best gear transforms handheld comfort, boosts performance, and keeps your console safe on every adventure.
Whether you’re looking to boost your comfort with new thumbstick grips or a gaming pillow, or you want to optimize your Switch’s portability with a smaller dock and powerful battery, you can find all the best ways to upgrade your Switch setup below.
Our 4 must-have Nintendo Switch accessories
Protect your Nintendo Switch with a sturdy Samsung Skull Co. case that absorbs shocks during travel. Pair it with an 8BitDo controller for precise inputs and longer battery life than the stock Joy-Cons. Hori’s split pad adds ergonomic grips for handheld comfort on extended sessions. A reliable dock completes the setup, letting you charge and play on your TV without hassle.
Samsung 512 GB Evo Select microSD memory card
$40$5629% off $40
One of the first purchases you should make after buying a Switch is a microSD card. It’ll give you more space for downloading games, which is something you’ll need unless you’re devoted to buying physical copies of games. For reference, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is 16 GB in size, which will take a huge chunk of out the Switch or Switch Lite’s 32 GB internal storage (and some Switch games are even bigger). The Switch OLED has 64 GB, but that likely won’t last you long, either.
Prices for high-capacity microSD cards keep falling as the years go by, and it’s relatively easy to find a 512 GB model for $40 to $50. I suggest getting the most capacious one you can afford, as to limit the likelihood of having to buy another in the future.
Read More $40 at Amazon
Skull & Co. thumbstick grips
$10 $10
The Joy-Cons included with each Switch work well for some people. For others, they become uncomfortable during long play sessions. A quick, affordable enhancement to boost your comfort is a pack of Skull & Co.’s thumbstick grips, which easily fit onto the analog sticks. It comes with three varieties, all of which increase the grippiness of the sticks. And if it’s extra stick height you’re after, there are two options for increasing the sticks’ height and radius, in addition to the standard model.
Read More $10 at Amazon (Switch, PS)
amFilm screen protector for Switch
$7$813% off $7
We highly suggest getting a screen protector for your Switch. This one covers the screen and bezel, so it’ll take the initial hit from a drop or a rough jab before the Switch’s panel gets damaged. Plus, given that the regular Switch and Switch Lite have plastic-coated displays, putting one of these on will make the screen look and feel a little more premium. The Switch OLED does have a glass-covered screen, but we still recommend sticking a protector on it for added peace of mind.
Read More $8 at Amazon (standard Switch)$8 at Amazon (Switch OLED)$7 at Amazon (Switch Lite)
A USB-to-Ethernet adapter
$14$157% off $14
Remedy the Switch’s lackluster Wi-Fi download speeds and improve online gaming performance with a gigabit-ready USB 3.0 to Ethernet adapter. Feed an Ethernet cable from your modem into the adapter, then plug it into one of the USB type A ports on your Switch’s TV dock.
If you own a Switch OLED, the dock that came with that console already has an Ethernet port, so in that case this adapter is unnecessary.
Read More $14 at Amazon
Best Switch controllers
The best Switch controllers combine comfort, precision, and versatility for every play style. Nintendo’s Pro Controller remains a reliable choice with its sturdy build and long battery life, while Joy-Cons offer flexibility for handheld or multiplayer sessions. Brands like 8BitDo and Hori provide excellent alternatives with customizable layouts and responsive buttons that cater to both casual players and competitive gamers. Whether you prefer wireless freedom or a wired connection, there’s an option that enhances gameplay across all genres.
Nintendo Switch Pro wireless controller
$68 $68
Unlike the Switch Joy-Cons – which are two small controllers trying to mimic one large controller – the Pro Controller feels like the complete package. It has a dedicated D-pad, larger face buttons, more prominent analog sticks, and much easier-to-hit shoulder buttons. This is in addition to an amiibo reader, HD rumble, and a gyroscope.
This standard-size controller also has a similar size and weight to other controllers from Sony and Microsoft, which helps it feel more familiar – and often more comfortable – than the Switch’s Joy-Con setup.
Read More $70 at Best Buy$68 at Walmart$70 at GameStop
8BitDo USB Adapter 2
$18$2010% off $18
Here’s a scenario many Switch owners have faced: You own an Xbox or PlayStation controller, and purchasing a new one that works for your Switch isn’t viable.
Thankfully, there’s an option that’ll let you use any of your preexisting controllers with your Switch. 8BitDo’s USB Adapter 2 transmitter plugs into one of the USB ports of your Switch’s dock and with a push of a button allows you to pair a controller. This will work with any controller dating back to the Wii and PS3 era, though you’ll need two USB Adapter 2s if you want to pair two of the supported controllers.
After connecting my PlayStation 5’s DualSense, I was shocked to be able to play Splatoon 3 with accurate rumble and motion control support. Granted, the on-screen button prompts in Switch games may not accurately reflect the buttons on your controller, but this is a good, affordable option if you’re operating on a strict budget.
Read More $18 at Amazon$20 at Best Buy
8BitDo Ultimate 2C Bluetooth controller
$30 $30
8BitDo appears in many of AELGAMES’s accessory roundups for good reason: The company excels at making great accessories at multiple price points.
Its Ultimate 2C controller works seamlessly with the Nintendo Switch, yet only costs $29.99. While it lacks the ability to set multiple control profiles (something the pricier Ultimate Bluetooth controller below can do), it has some stellar features at this price, like Hall-effect joysticks that won’t develop drift over time and the ability to wake your Switch from sleep by turning on the controller and shaking it (as the Ultimate Bluetooth can, too). Plus, it supports motion controls and has rumble.
Read More $30 at Amazon (blue)$30 at Amazon (pink)$30 at 8BitDo (dark blue)
8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth controller
$51$7027% off $51
If you want a more premium wireless Switch controller that works with multiple devices, the Ultimate Bluetooth from 8BitDo is a great option. In addition to the usual set of buttons, sticks, and triggers, it includes two rear back paddles that can be customized within 8BitDo’s PC or mobile app.
In addition to connecting via Bluetooth to Switch, mobile, PC, and other platforms, it includes a charging dock that connects via USB-C. It houses an 8BitDo USB Adapter 2 transmitter, allowing the controller to communicate with it via a reliable 2.4 GHz connection.
Read More $60 at Amazon$51 at Best Buy
Hori Split Pad Pro
$50 $50
The Hori Split Pad Pro is a pair of detachable controllers that you can use in place of the much smaller standard Joy-Cons. These large gamepads significantly increase the bulk of the Switch, making them more comfortable for those with larger hands. They also have bigger… just about everything. The sticks, triggers, and buttons feel akin to other console controllers. However, they miss out on Joy-Con-exclusive functionality, like rumble, amiibo support, and the ability to operate while disconnected from the Switch; these only work when attached to it.
We praised the Split Pad Pro for working well with most games in our review, and we found it was especially helpful when playing games with complicated control schemes. The gamepads even have additional buttons on the back that you can assign to customize your experience.
If you prefer a smaller, more colorful alternative, Hori makes the $49.99 Split Pad Compact. I tested out that model for The Verge, and I prefer its smaller design over the standard model.
Read More $50 at Best Buy
Best Switch mounts
A sturdy mount keeps your Nintendo Switch secure whether you’re gaming at a desk, on the couch, or in bed. Adjustable stands like Hori’s PlayStand or Skull Co.’s GripCase bundle provide flexible viewing angles and improved stability during docked or tabletop play. For wall or car setups, switch mounts with strong clamps and cooling support help maintain comfort and performance through long gaming sessions.
Lamicall gooseneck holder for Nintendo Switch
$32 $32
If you suffer from any kind of pain that makes using the Switch in portable mode a no-go, or you want to more easily play wherever you want without holding it, you should check out this gooseneck cradle.
By detaching your Switch’s Joy-Cons, you can clamp the Switch (or another screen) onto this articulating stand so that you can view it from whatever angle is most comfortable for you. AELGAMES’s Nicole Clark makes a great case for the gooseneck holder in her post on the peripherals that help her game with chronic pain.
Read More $32 at Amazon
Mechanism gaming pillow
$58$649% off $58
The Nintendo Switch is one of the lighter portable consoles, especially compared to the Steam Deck. However, why hold it when devices exist that can do that for you? Mechanism’s gaming pillow is one of the most clever pillows out there, letting you snap the Switch onto it, then position it so it’s both comfortable to look at and to reach.
It’s also a great gateway into Mechanism’s ecosystem of accessories, which make it easier to mount the Switch where you want, as well as easier to lug accessories along during travels.
Read More $58 at Mechanism
Best Switch docks
Nintendo Switch docks expand your console’s versatility with TV output, charging, and USB ports. The official Nintendo dock delivers reliable performance for docked play. Hori’s compact model suits travel without sacrificing stability. 8BitDo’s wireless dock adds Bluetooth convenience for controllers. Samsung’s option integrates smart TV features, while Skull Co.’s retro design appeals to collectors. Pick based on portability needs or extra connectivity.
Genki Covert Dock 2
$60 $60
The Covert Dock 2 can connect your Switch to a TV with its USB-C and HDMI inputs, plus you can plug in a USB-A accessory. It can charge a little faster than the 20 W Covert Dock Mini below, thanks to its 45 W charging, and it can display up to 4K at 60 frames per second. This model can also be used with a host of other gadgets, serving just as well as a USB-C hub for your iPad, laptop, and more.
Read More $60 at Amazon$60 at Genki
Genki Covert Dock Mini
$40 $40
The Switch dock that Nintendo includes is bulky when bringing it along on trips. And while the Covert Dock 2 is great smaller option, if you’re looking to save even more space, Genki’s Covert Dock Mini is the way to go. It has a USB-C port (20 W charging) and an HDMI port with 4K/30 frames per second support – more than you need to output your Switch’s interface to a TV or monitor. In addition to serving as a Switch dock that fits in your pocket, it’s compatible with any device that can output video via USB-C, like the Steam Deck, some iPads, Android phones, and laptops.
Read More $40 at Genki
Best Switch portable battery
A reliable portable battery keeps your Nintendo Switch powered during long trips or marathon gaming sessions. Models like the Anker PowerCore 20100 or the RAVPower PD Pioneer offer fast charging with USB-C compatibility, ensuring minimal downtime. A high-capacity pack provides several full charges, while compact designs make them easy to carry. Choosing one with Power Delivery support ensures smooth performance even while running demanding titles on the go.
Baseus 20,000mAh 65 W portable USB-C battery
$35$6042% off $35
The Nintendo Switch consoles have a decent battery life when playing in handheld mode, but they won’t last as long as, say, your phone. If you’re away from your dock and need to charge the system after a few hours of intense gameplay, you can simply plug a USB-C cable into the console. (Chances have never been higher that it’s the same connector your laptop or phone uses.) This charger will also work great with the Steam Deck, which has the same type of charging connector.
Our favorite portable battery is the Baseus 65 W USB-C battery that has a 20,000mAh capacity. Its charging speed is definitely overkill for the Switch’s maximum power usage (perhaps it’ll be just right for the Switch 2, though), but at its affordable price, who cares? It’s nice to have a product you won’t need to replace when you upgrade your tech.
Read More $35 at Amazon
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller vs 8BitDo Ultimate comparison
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller and 8BitDo Ultimate are both premium wireless controllers priced similarly around $70, with the 8BitDo often including extras like a charging dock for better value.
Design and Build
The Pro Controller features a semi-translucent black finish with subtle concave grips and weighs about 235g, prioritizing a sleek Nintendo aesthetic.
The 8BitDo Ultimate offers white or black solid colors, more textured convex grips, and slightly heavier build at 246g, feeling premium with Hall Effect sticks to prevent drift.
Key Features
Pro Controller excels with NFC for amiibo support, HD rumble, reliable wake-from-sleep on Switch, and up to 40 hours of battery life.
8BitDo Ultimate adds back paddles, a 2.4GHz dongle for low-latency PC use, gyro controls, customizable profiles via mobile/PC app, and an included charging dock.
Input Quality
Both have responsive analog sticks, but 8BitDo’s D-pad stands out with its concave, textured design-ideal for retro or 2D games-while Pro’s is simpler.
Triggers differ: Pro’s are shallow and clicky; 8BitDo’s mimic DualSense depth for analog feel, with switchable modes.
| Feature | Switch Pro Controller | 8BitDo Ultimate |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | ~40 hours | ~22 hours (dock extends) |
| Customization | Basic remapping | Full app (profiles, sensitivity) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth | Bluetooth + 2.4GHz dongle |
| Extras | NFC, rumble, amiibo | Back buttons, Hall Effect sticks |
| D-Pad | Standard | Superior textured |
| Best For | Official Switch integration | Multi-platform, customization |
Which is best for competitive fighting games
For competitive fighting games on Nintendo Switch-like Street Fighter 6, Guilty Gear Strive, or Mortal Kombat-the 8BitDo Ultimate edges out as the better choice over the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
D-Pad Precision
The 8BitDo Ultimate’s concave, textured D-pad delivers superior responsiveness and accuracy for directional inputs, quarter-circles, and charge moves critical in fighters.
Pro Controller’s D-pad, while solid, feels mushier and less precise for rapid sequences, leading some pros to prefer fight sticks.
Customization Edge
8BitDo’s back paddles allow mapping jumps or specials without finger movement, and its app enables sensitivity tweaks for sticks/triggers tailored to fighter needs.
Pro Controller lacks paddles and deep customization, though it has reliable gyro aiming.
Latency and Versatility
Both have low Bluetooth latency on Switch, but 8BitDo’s 2.4GHz dongle shines for PC cross-training in competitive scenes.
Hall Effect sticks on 8BitDo prevent drift during long sessions.
| Aspect | Switch Pro Controller | 8BitDo Ultimate | Winner for Fighters |
|---|---|---|---|
| D-Pad | Standard clicky | Textured, precise | 8BitDo |
| Back Buttons | None | 2 programmable | 8BitDo |
| Customization | Limited | App profiles | 8BitDo |
| Drift Resistance | Standard | Hall Effect | 8BitDo |
| Multi-Platform | Switch-focused | PC/Switch dongle | 8BitDo |
