Best Nintendo Switch accessories 2024

The best Nintendo Switch accessories
(Image credit: Hori)

The best Nintendo Switch accessories can take your entire hybrid gaming experience up a notch. If you already own a Switch, then you already know how much fun Nintendo’s latest console can be, whether you’re playing at home in docked mode or taking it on the go in handheld mode. But the console doesn’t really include everything it needs right out of the box. You’ll need to augment your Switch with some accessories if you really want to get the most out of it.

Our list of the best Nintendo Switch accessories covers everything from controllers, to cases, to portable chargers. The list includes headsets to improve the system’s audio experience, as well as a variety of other adapters to make the Switch more amenable to your own home setup. Whether you need to connect to the Internet via Ethernet cable, or you need a better D-pad on your Joy-Con, there’s something on this page to suit your needs.

Just be aware that while most of the gear on this page works fine for both the Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch Lite, we’ve rounded up the best Nintendo Switch Lite accessories on a separate page. You might also want to check out our Nintendo Switch OLED starter guide for more tips on how to get the most from your console.

The best Nintendo Switch accessories you can buy today

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Best Nintendo Switch controllers

Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: $69 @ Best Buy

Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: <a href="https://shop-links.co/link?publisher_slug=future&exclusive=1&u1=hawk-custom-tracking&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fpro-wireless-controller-for-nintendo-switch%2F5748618.p%3F&article_name=hawk-article-name&article_url=hawk-article-url" data-link-merchant="bestbuy.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">$69 @ Best Buy
If you want a more traditional gaming experience on your Switch, you can pick up a Pro Controller and enjoy new features such as built-in NFC (for use with Nintendo's Amiibos) and the share button for sending pics and clips to all your friends. Plus, this controller has a seriously remarkable battery life of approximately 40 hours. 

Hori D-Pad Controller: $19 @ Amazon

Hori D-Pad Controller: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=45724&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB01AJRN4CE%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">$19 @ Amazon
If you play <a href="/us/pictures-story/1557-best-fighting-games.html" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"">fighting games or <a href="/us/pictures-story/1584-best-platformers-for-switch.html" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"">platformers on the go on your Switch, Hori’s <a href="/us/hori-switch-d-pad,review-5833.html" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"">D-Pad Controller is essential. This accessory replaces your left Joy-Con and gives you a rubbery, precise d-pad that the Switch always should have had in portable mode, which is perfect for landing those tight Street Fighter combos or split-second Mega Man jumps. Just keep in mind this is only the left Joy-Con, so it won't work as a wireless controller.

8BitDo SN30: $47 @ Amazon

8BitDo SN30: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=45724&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB07BNR6HG9%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">$47 @ Amazon
If you play tons of retro games on your Switch, <a href="/us/8bitdo-sn30-review,news-28216.html" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"">8BitDo’s SN30 is the definitive way to do so – and just a great, affordable spare controller at just $30. This wireless gamepad feels just like your old Super Nintendo controllers, but with wireless functionality and a slick set of color options inspired by the Game Boy Pocket series.

PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller: $54 @ Amazon

PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=45724&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB07GXK8DJX%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">$54 @ Amazon
Of the many solid alternatives to Nintendo's Pro Controller, PowerA's <a href="/us/powera-enhanced-wireless-switch-controller,review-5923.html" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"">Enhanced Wireless Controller just might be the best. For $15 less than Nintendo's official pad, you get a sturdy, responsive controller complete with motion control support as well as extra programmable buttons for getting that extra edge in Fortnite or Splatoon 2. 

Best Nintendo Switch cases

FastSnail Joy-Con Grips: $14 @ Amazon

FastSnail Joy-Con Grips: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=45724&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB06Y6BX6HT%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">$14 @ Amazon
Want those tiny Joy-Cons to feel more like actual controllers? These Joy-Con grips from FastSnail will do the trick for cheap. The grips come in black, red, blue and neon yellow, allowing them to match your controllers no matter which color Joy-Cons you own. These can really come in handy for casual multiplayer games, such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

RDS Game Traveler Deluxe Travel Case: $14 @ Amazon

RDS Game Traveler Deluxe Travel Case: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=45724&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FNINTENDO-SWITCH-DELUXE-TRAVEL-CASE-MULTI-GAME%2Fdp%2FB01MY9JB2U%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">$14 @ Amazon
RDS Industries' Game Traveler is one of the most popular Nintendo Switch cases out there, and for good reason: it's durable, affordable and loaded with features. This Switch case packs a sturdy hard shell design complete with a convenient carry handle, and has a padded interior designed to keep your Switch's screen and Joy-Con analog sticks safe.

amFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector: $8 @ Amazon

amFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=45724&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB01N3ASPNV%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">$8 @ Amazon
If you are looking to keep the screen on your Switch sharp and scratch-free, instead of getting the flimsy official screen protector, what you really want is one made out of tempered glass like this one from amFilm. Not only are tempered glass screen protectors significantly stronger than those made out of plastic, they're also easier to install.

Best Nintendo Switch headsets

SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless: $99 @ Amazon

SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=45724&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB07X96DFR5%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">$99 @ Amazon
The <a href="https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/steelseries-arctis-1-wireless" data-link-merchant="tomsguide.com"" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"">SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless is one of the best wireless gaming headsets you can get for under $100, and far and away the best wireless headset solution for the Switch. Thanks to the Arctis 1's handy 2.4GHz USB-C dongle, you can enjoy instant wireless gaming audio in both portable and docked mode without the need for any complicated pairing.

HyperX Cloud Earbuds: $29 @ Amazon

HyperX Cloud Earbuds: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=45724&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB07GW283KL%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">$29 @ Amazon
HyperX's <a href="/us/hyperx-cloud-earbuds,review-5859.html" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"">Cloud Earbuds are an excellent choice for on-the-go Switch gamers, offering impressive audio within a slick red design for a compelling price. The Cloud Earbuds include multiple sets of silicone tips to accommodate different ear sizes, and pack a solid inline mic for chatting with friends in Fortnite (or making calls on your smartphone).

Astro Legend of Zelda A10 Headset: $52 @ Amazon

Astro Legend of Zelda A10 Headset: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=45724&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB07MTRRHJL%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"">$52 @ Amazon
The Astro 10 was already a great gaming headset in its own right, and this special <a href="/us/zelda-astro-a10-switch,review-6090.html" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"">Astro 10 Breath of the Wild edition is a great add-on for hardcore Zelda fans or anyone who simply wants quality Switch sound on the go. This headset's durable, lightweight frame and soft fabric earcups will have you gaming in comfort for hours on end.

Best Nintendo Switch adapters and cables

Cable Matters USB-C cable: $3 @ Amazon
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Cable Matters USB-C cable: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=45724&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB018X3IP4I%2F%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">$3 @ Amazon
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f you want to charge your Nintendo Switch on the go, you'll need a spare USB-C cable. This Cable Matters cable is a braided, 3-foot USB-C cord for just a few bucks, providing a cheap, durable option for juicing up your system wherever you are.

AccuPoint Active Stylus: $26 @ Amazon

AccuPoint Active Stylus: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=45724&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB01EBJMMZ6%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"">$26 @ Amazon
If you're playing touch-intensive games like Super Mario Maker 2, you're going to need a stylus. The AccuPoint Active Stylus is the best Switch-friendly stylus we've tested, with a comfortable design, accurate tips on both ends, and 12 hours of battery life.

8BitDo Wireless Bluetooth Adapter: $19 @ Amazon

8BitDo Wireless Bluetooth Adapter: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=45724&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB09M8CVMYF%3Fth%3D1%26tag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">$19 @ Amazon
Why shell out for a pricey Pro Controller when you can use the PS4 or Xbox pad you already own? 8BitDo's handy Wireless Bluetooth Adapter makes that possible, allowing you to connect PS4, PS3, Xbox One (Bluetooth models only), Wiimote and Wii U Pro Controllers to your Nintendo Switch. 

Rocketfish Extended Play Battery Pack For Nintendo Switch: $24 @ Best Buy

Rocketfish Extended Play Battery Pack For Nintendo Switch: <a href="https://shop-links.co/link?publisher_slug=future&exclusive=1&u1=hawk-custom-tracking&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2F6406595.p%3F&article_name=hawk-article-name&article_url=hawk-article-url" data-link-merchant="bestbuy.com"">$24 @ Best Buy
If you wish you could charge your Nintendo Switch while using it in tabletop mode, this charging stand from Rocketfish is a great option. We used to recommend the Nintendo Switch Adjustable Charging Stand but unfortunately, it is sold out. Luckily, this small dock from Best Buy's house brand lets you prop up your Switch while charging it with a built-in rechargeable battery. That's a big win for all those impromptu multiplayer sessions at the park.

Hori Wired Internet Adapter: $29 @ Amazon

Hori Wired Internet Adapter: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=45724&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB01N6S068R%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">$29 @ Amazon
If you want to play competitive online games like <a href="/us/splatoon-2,review-4518.html" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"">Splatoon 2 and <a href="/us/ultra-street-fighter-2,review-4404.html" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"">Ultra Street Fighter 2 without any pesky lag getting in your way, Hori's Wired Internet LAN Adapter is essential. This adapter allows you to connect an Ethernet cable to your Switch, so you won't have to worry about spotty Wi-Fi causing you defeat in the last minute.

How to choose the best Nintendo Switch accessories for you

Choosing the best Nintendo Switch accessories boils down almost entirely to what you need. Obviously, an Ethernet adapter isn’t going to do you much good if you need a controller, and vice versa. Instead, focus on the problem you’re currently having with your Nintendo Switch, then figure out which product can address it.

For example: If you feel that your Joy-Cons are not giving you the level of precision you need in a game, consider the Pro Controller or the Hori D-Pad. If your wireless Internet connection isn’t stable, the Hori LAN Adapter is probably the way to go. If you’re concerned about your screen getting scratched, them amFilm screen protector could help assuage some of your worries.

There is no single indispensable Switch accessory, for better or for worse. My one big recommendation for everyone would be a travel case — but even that’s negotiable, if you don’t take your Switch outside of the house much.

Michael Andronico

Mike Andronico is Senior Writer at CNNUnderscored. He was formerly Managing Editor at Tom's Guide, where he wrote extensively on gaming, as well as running the show on the news front. When not at work, you can usually catch him playing Street Fighter, devouring Twitch streams and trying to convince people that Hawkeye is the best Avenger.

With contributions from