5 affordable ways to accessorise your Nintendo Switch
Personalise your Switch with these simple ideas.
It's no secret that gaming is one of my favourite hobbies. And if you're anything like me, then you'll know that it's not exactly the most affordable pick of the bunch. But over the years, I've learnt tons of handy tips on how to save money on video games, so you can too.
I've researched everything from gaming subscriptions to renowned gaming sale events, and even tested the Nintendo Switch 2 to see if it's worth the upgrade. And now, it's time to talk accessories.
Nintendo Switch Controllers
It's no secret that official Nintendo products can be pricey. Even today, a pair of official Joy-Cons can set you back £56, but you can get some third-party models that work just as well, if not better.
HORI Split Pad Pro
HORI are masters when it comes to making top of the line Nintendo products, even so much as becoming an official partner with Nintendo for Switch accessories. So if you're looking to upgrade your controllers, HORI provide a unique solution.
One of the biggest issues with Nintendo's Joy-Cons is that they're small. Like really small. I've always found myself struggling to play any kind of game that includes shooting or aiming in general when using them. I don't know if it's because the sticks are too small or if there's just something uncomfortable with the design.
That's where HORI come in. They've developed their own unique design of controller for the Switch that suits bigger hands and is designed to be far more comfortable.
They also have a range of controllers inspired by your favourite games such as Zelda, Pokémon and Sonic. These controllers are priced around £30 - £50, depending on the model.
Does the Split Pad Pro have rumble or gyro?
No, HORI sacrificed these features to create a nicer weight to the controllers and make the design more ergonomic. Cutting back on these features also increases the battery life on the controllers.
CRKD Nitro Deck Controller
If you're a serious Switch gamer and the Joy-Cons and other controllers just aren't doing it for you, maybe the CRKD Nitro Deck is exactly what you need.
Providing gamers a more serious controller, packed with 4 extra triggers, zero stick drift and lightning fast response rates, the Nitro Deck is an impressive bit of kit.
The biggest comparison in terms of appearance is Valve's Steam Deck. Not just two new controllers to stick on the sides of your Switch, the Nitro Deck is more of a dock that you place your Switch in.
The price of the Nitro Deck starts at £34.99.
Is the Nitro Deck worth it?
Yes, over on our sister-site, GamesRadar+, it was reviewed by Duncan Robertson, who gave the Nitro Deck 4 out of 5 stars and said that it makes the Nintendo Switch feel like "The Switch Pro model that never was".
Joy-Con Grip
If you're happy with your Switch controllers but bored with looking at the dull Joy-Con grip that comes packed with your Switch, maybe it's time for an upgrade?
You can pick up a range of varied Joy-Con grips, all designed around your favourite video games, including The Legend of Zelda, Pokémon and Animal Crossing. So you can finally ditch the boring dark grey of your current Joy-Con grip and choose something a little more 'you'.
These customised Joy-Con grips are priced around £14.99.
Does the Nintendo Switch Joy-Con grip charge?
The grip that comes bundled with the Switch does not charge the Joy-Cons. But you can purchase a grip that charges your Joy-Cons while you're using them! You can pick up a charging grip for £24.99 at the My Nintendo Store.
Thumb Grips
One of the easiest and cheapest ways to customise your Switch is to purchase customised thumb grips. Not only will they provide you with extra support on your thumbs while gaming, but they also just look very cute.
Where can I buy Switch thumb grips?
These thumb grips are basically placed on top of the thumb sticks of your controller to add a much more personal touch. And on Etsy, you can find a wide range of adorable grips to add much-needed personality to your Switch.
You'll find thumb grips for essentially any piece of pop culture that you love. From Studio Ghibli to Pokémon, you'll find something to love at Etsy.
These thumb grips range in price from £5 to £20, depending on the size of the pack of grips.
Are thumb grips worth it?
On Etsy, many of the thumb grips have fantastic reviews from verified customers. Many are giving the products 5 stars and saying that they're easy to put on and are a great replacement if your original thumb sticks are starting to wear away.
Switch Carrying Case
If you're a gamer on the go and are worried about damaging your Nintendo Switch, it's definitely worth picking up a carrying case. And you don't have to go with a standard black or grey case; there are many, many different options available to better match your preferences.
What is the best Nintendo Switch case?
It all depends on what you're looking for, but I would always recommend going with a case that's a bit tougher on the outside. Any Switch case that has a hard shell, you're good to go.
Thankfully, GAME has an extensive range of hard shell Switch cases that are designed around video games, including Fortnite, Pokémon, Super Mario and many more. The price of these cases starts at £12.99.
Do Nintendo Switch cases fit the Switch 2?
Unfortunately, no. Due to the increase in size with the Switch 2, no Switch 1 case will fit the Switch 2. If you have a Switch 2, you'll have to look at picking up a new case.
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