I bought my Nintendo Switch 2 on launch day, June 5, 2025, and within three hours I had already dropped it off my lap onto a hardwood floor. Left Joy-Con took a scuff, nothing tragic, but enough to make me realize something important. The $449 console does not come with everything you need right out of the box. No screen protector. No carrying case. No expanded storage. And no, your old Switch 1 accessories will not fit.
Over the past year, I have spent over $400 on Nintendo Switch 2 accessories alone. Some were worth every penny. Others went straight into the junk drawer. This guide covers everything that survived the testing period and earned a permanent spot in my daily setup. I am talking controllers, cases, microSD Express cards, screen protectors, docks, and the little things nobody tells you about until it is too late.
If you just picked up a Switch 2, or you are planning to grab one before the $50 price increase hits on September 1, 2026, this is the accessories list that will save you from wasting money on garbage.
What Changed From Switch 1: Why Your Old Gear Will Not Work
Before I get into specific products, let me save you a trip to the return counter. Most of your old Switch 1 accessories will not fit the Switch 2. The display grew from 6.2 inches (or 7 inches on the OLED) to a larger 7.9-inch screen, the Joy-Con 2 controllers attach magnetically instead of sliding on rails, and the overall dimensions of the console changed significantly. Screen protectors, carrying cases, grip shells, and most mounts from the original Switch are physically incompatible.
The only real exceptions are some USB-C charging cables, certain headsets, and a few third-party Pro Controllers that support both systems via Bluetooth. Everything else needs to be Switch 2 specific.
According to Nintendo’s official support page, the Switch 2 is only compatible with microSD Express cards for game storage. Your existing standard microSD, microSDHC, or microSDXC cards from the original Switch cannot be used to save or load digital games on the Switch 2. You can import old screenshots and videos, but that is it.
This is the single biggest gotcha that catches new owners off guard, so I wanted to address it upfront.
Best Nintendo Switch 2 Controllers
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller ($79.99)
The Switch 2 Pro Controller is the best controller Nintendo has ever made, and I say that as someone who spent years defending the GameCube pad. The build quality feels genuinely premium in your hands. Buttery smooth joysticks, responsive face buttons, and the new C Button for quick access to GameChat make this feel like a purpose-built companion for the console.
It ships with mappable GL/GR buttons on the back, a 3.5mm headphone jack (finally), and a USB-C charging cable in the box. The HD Rumble 2 feedback is noticeably more nuanced than the original Pro Controller, especially in games like Mario Kart World where you can genuinely feel different road surfaces through the controller.
Here is my honest gripe though. At $79.99, this is an expensive controller. And it does not include hall-effect joysticks, which means drift could become a problem over time. I have had mine for over a year and have not experienced drift yet, but the original Switch Pro Controller developed issues for many users after 18 to 24 months, so the long-term picture remains uncertain.
If you are playing a lot of docked games, the Pro Controller is borderline essential. If you mainly play handheld, save your money.
Alt text suggestion: Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller with C Button and GL GR remappable buttons sitting on a desk
8BitDo Pro 3 ($49.99)
For anyone who does not want to spend $80 on a controller, the 8BitDo Pro 3 is the alternative I keep recommending to friends. It is shaped like a modernized Super NES pad with symmetrical joystick placement that will feel natural if you prefer PlayStation-style ergonomics.
What makes the Pro 3 genuinely compelling is the feature list. You get TMR joysticks that resist drift, swappable face buttons and joystick caps, hall-effect triggers with lockable travel, four programmable back buttons, and a charging dock included in the box. The 8BitDo companion app lets you fine-tune vibration intensity and joystick sensitivity, which I used to dial in tighter aiming in Metroid Prime 4 docked play.
The tradeoffs are real though. No headphone jack. No amiibo scanning. No dedicated GameChat button. And the plastic build quality feels noticeably cheaper than the official Pro Controller. The face buttons have a harsher, clickier sound that might bother you during late night sessions. But at roughly $30 less than Nintendo’s offering, and with drift-resistant joysticks that the Pro Controller lacks, the value proposition is strong.
If you are building a multiplayer setup and need multiple controllers without destroying your budget, grab two Pro 3 units for roughly the same cost as a single official Pro Controller plus an extra set of Joy-Con 2s.
For more controller recommendations across platforms, our best PC controllers roundup covers options that also work with the Switch 2 over Bluetooth.
Nintendo GameCube Controller (Switch Online Exclusive)
This one is for the nostalgic crowd and I count myself firmly in that camp. Nintendo sells official GameCube controller replicas exclusively through the Nintendo Store, available only to active Switch Online members. It is a near-perfect recreation of the 2001 original with the nubby C-stick, stiff Z button, and analog triggers that make a satisfying thud at full press.
Playing Wind Waker and Luigi’s Mansion through the GameCube Nintendo Classics app with this controller is the most authentic retro experience you can get on the Switch 2. My only complaint is that the GameCube app only has nine titles as of this writing, so the controller’s usefulness is limited compared to a full Pro Controller. But for those nine games, nothing else compares.
Best Nintendo Switch 2 Cases and Protection
Dbrand Killswitch 2 ($59.99 essential kit / $79.99 travel kit)
I have tested five different Switch 2 cases over the past year, and the Dbrand Killswitch 2 is the one that stayed on my console. The main chassis wraps the Switch 2 body in impact-resistant thermoplastics with precisely cut openings for every button, vent, port, and the cartridge slot. Both USB-C ports remain accessible for charging, and the redesigned kickstand gets its own opening so you can still use tabletop mode without removing the case.
The Joy-Lock grip covers transform the ergonomics of the Switch 2 in handheld mode. If you have adult-sized hands (I wear size large gloves), the grips make the console feel like a proper handheld gaming device rather than a tablet with tiny controllers stuck to the sides. It genuinely changes how long you can comfortably play before hand fatigue sets in. I went from about 90 minutes of comfortable handheld play to easily three hours with the Killswitch grips attached.
Here is a caveat though. The Killswitch makes the Switch 2 too thick to fit in the standard dock. Dbrand includes a dock adapter that repositions the USB-C connection to the front of the dock, and honestly, I actually prefer this setup to Nintendo’s default docking experience. It is easier to place the console, there is less risk of screen scratches on the dock edges, and it looks cleaner on a shelf.
The travel cover with its magnetic game card holder is the cherry on top. I throw my Switch 2 into a backpack three to four times a week, and the screen has stayed pristine.
Fair warning: The initial June 2025 launch batch had an issue where Joy-Cons could disconnect during gameplay. Dbrand shipped revised Joy-Lock grips that fix this problem. If you are buying in mid-2026, you are getting the updated version, but I mention it for transparency.
Alt text suggestion: Dbrand Killswitch 2 case on Nintendo Switch 2 showing ergonomic grip covers and dock adapter accessory
Belkin Charging Case ($69.99)
If you travel frequently, the Belkin Charging Case is the smartest single purchase you can make. Instead of cramming a battery into the case itself, Belkin included a separate 10,000 mAh power bank with a right-angle USB-C cable and a dedicated cutout inside the case to hold it. The case also stores up to 12 game cartridges and has a hidden pocket for an AirTag or other tracker.
I took this case on a five-hour flight from San Francisco to New York in March 2026 and played Cyberpunk 2077 the entire time. The power bank kept the Switch 2 alive with about 30% charge remaining on landing. Not bad for a case that costs less than a nice dinner.
If you already own a power bank, Belkin sells the case alone for $29.99, which undercuts most comparable hard-shell cases on the market.
For more about playing games on the go, check out our guide on how to play PC games on your phone for complementary mobile gaming tips.
Spigen Rugged Armor ($34.99 with screen protector)
The budget pick. Spigen’s Rugged Armor is a slim protective skin that wraps around the Switch 2 without adding much bulk. It changes the grip texture just enough to prevent slipping, and it comes bundled with an AluminaCore glass screen protector. At $34.99 for both, this is the cheapest way to get basic protection handled in a single purchase.
It will not transform ergonomics the way the Killswitch does, but if you mainly play docked and just want peace of mind for the occasional handheld session, Spigen gets the job done without making your console feel like a tank.
Best MicroSD Express Cards for Nintendo Switch 2
This is where most new Switch 2 owners get confused, and where bad purchases happen most frequently. So let me be very clear.
The Nintendo Switch 2 only accepts microSD Express cards. Not standard microSD. Not microSDHC. Not microSDXC. Not SanDisk “Extreme” branded cards (those are not Express despite the similar name). You need cards with the “EX” logo on them. According to Nintendo’s official microSD Express FAQ, any card up to 2TB that meets the microSD Express standard will work with the Switch 2.
The Switch 2 ships with 256GB of UFS 3.1 internal storage, which is a massive upgrade from the original Switch’s 32GB. But games are bigger now too. Mario Kart World takes about 22GB, Cyberpunk 2077 is around 40GB, and if you buy primarily digital, you will fill 256GB faster than you think.
MicroSD Express Card Comparison
| Card | Capacity | Price (June 2026) | Max Read Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PNY microSD Express | 256GB | $59.99 | 800 MB/s | Best value pick |
| Samsung P9 Express | 256GB | $79.99 (often on sale for ~$40) | 800 MB/s | Budget when on sale |
| Lexar Play Pro Express | 512GB | ~$109 | 880 MB/s | Large digital libraries |
| SanDisk Nintendo Licensed | 256GB | $74.99 | 800 MB/s | Official branding, peace of mind |
| PNY microSD Express | 1TB | $229.99 | 800 MB/s | Serious collectors |
Here is the thing that surprised me after weeks of testing. Performance differences between microSD Express cards are nearly undetectable on the Switch 2 in actual gameplay. Load time differences between the fastest and slowest cards I tested amounted to roughly one to two seconds across games like Mario Kart World and Cyberpunk 2077. The PNY 256GB card loaded Mario Kart World in about 19 seconds. The Samsung did it in about the same. The Lexar 512GB was maybe a second faster.
My recommendation: grab the PNY 256GB at $59.99 unless you find the Samsung P9 on sale for less. The 256GB sweet spot gives you enough room for about 8 to 12 major games alongside the 256GB of internal storage, and the price gap between 256GB and 512GB is steep enough that most people will not benefit from the jump.
One important note from Nintendo’s support documentation: game save data is stored on the system memory and cannot be saved to a microSD Express card. You can store downloaded games and captured media on the card, but saves always live on the console itself. Keep this in mind for backup planning.
If you are coming from a setup where storage management is already familiar, our guide on Steam Deck troubleshooting covers similar storage and installation issues.
Best Nintendo Switch 2 Screen Protectors
The Switch 2’s 7.9-inch LCD screen is the largest and most exposed surface on the console. One bad drop or an errant key scratch in your bag and you are looking at a repair bill. A screen protector costs under $15 and takes five minutes to apply. There is no reason not to have one.
JSAUX 3-Pack Tempered Glass ($10.99)
This is what I use. The JSAUX tempered glass protectors come in a three-pack with an alignment frame that makes bubble-free installation almost foolproof. I have applied protectors on three different handhelds over the years (Switch OLED, Steam Deck, and now Switch 2), and the JSAUX alignment frame is the easiest I have used. 9H hardness, scratch resistance, and full touch sensitivity without any noticeable lag or dimming.
At $10.99 for three protectors, you have replacements ready if one gets damaged. This is genuinely the best value accessory you can buy for the Switch 2. Period.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Camera ($49.99)
The Switch 2 Camera is Nintendo’s newest accessory category, designed to work with the GameChat feature for video chatting with friends during online multiplayer. It connects via USB-C on top of the console and captures at 1080p resolution in docked, handheld, or tabletop mode.
I have mixed feelings about this one. The image quality is perfectly fine for casual video chat during Mario Kart sessions. The wide-angle lens fits multiple people in frame during couch co-op, which is a nice touch. But at $49.99, it feels overpriced for what amounts to a basic webcam that only works within Nintendo’s own GameChat ecosystem. You cannot use it for Discord, Zoom, or streaming.
If you have a group of friends who all own Switch 2 consoles and play online together regularly, the camera adds a social layer that genuinely enhances the experience. If you mostly play solo or with local friends, skip it.
There is also a cheaper Piranha Plant Camera from a licensed third party that captures at 640×480 resolution for around $25. It looks hilarious sitting on your desk, and honestly the lower resolution does not matter much for a tiny chat window. I bought it as a novelty and ended up using it more than the official camera because it makes people laugh every time they see it on screen.
Other Accessories Worth Considering
Joy-Con 2 Wheel Set ($19.99 for two)
If you play Mario Kart World regularly, these little wheel attachments are surprisingly fun. They magnetically attach to individual Joy-Con 2 controllers and make motion-controlled racing feel more arcade-like. My nine-year-old nephew refuses to play Mario Kart without them now, which tells you everything about the target audience. Not essential for serious players, but great for family game nights.
Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip ($29.99)
The charging grip lets you combine both Joy-Con 2 controllers into a traditional controller shape while simultaneously charging them via USB-C. It also adds the mappable GL/GR buttons that you would otherwise only get with the Pro Controller. If you want a Pro Controller-like experience without spending $79.99, this is a smart middle ground. Not quite as comfortable as a dedicated Pro Controller, but functional and considerably cheaper.
Extra Dock Set ($199.99)
Expensive, but useful if you game in multiple rooms. The official dock set comes with an additional dock, AC adapter, USB-C cable, and high-speed HDMI cable. I have one in my living room and one in my office, and not having to unplug and move the dock every time I want to change rooms is worth the price for my use case. It will not be worth it for everyone, but if you switch between two TVs regularly, it eliminates genuine daily friction.
Complete Accessories Pricing Quick Reference
| Accessory | Price | Essential? | My Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Switch 2 Pro Controller | $79.99 | Yes (docked play) | 9/10 |
| 8BitDo Pro 3 | $49.99 | Budget alternative | 8/10 |
| Dbrand Killswitch 2 (travel kit) | $79.99 | Yes (handheld play) | 9/10 |
| Belkin Charging Case | $69.99 | Yes (travelers) | 8.5/10 |
| PNY 256GB microSD Express | $59.99 | Yes (digital buyers) | 9/10 |
| JSAUX Screen Protector 3-pack | $10.99 | Absolutely essential | 10/10 |
| Switch 2 Camera | $49.99 | Optional | 6/10 |
| Joy-Con 2 Wheel (2-pack) | $19.99 | Fun extra | 7/10 |
| Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip | $29.99 | Nice to have | 7.5/10 |
| Official Carrying Case + Protector | $34.99 | Good starter bundle | 7/10 |
What I Would Buy First: The $100 Starter Kit
If I were setting up a Switch 2 from scratch on a tight budget, here is exactly what I would buy first, in priority order.
1. JSAUX tempered glass screen protector ($10.99). Non-negotiable. Apply this before you even finish setting up the console.
2. PNY 256GB microSD Express card ($59.99). You will run out of internal storage faster than you expect, especially if you buy games digitally.
3. Belkin Travel Case ($29.99). Basic protection for transport. You do not need the charging version unless you travel frequently.
Total: $100.97. That covers protection, storage, and portability, the three things every Switch 2 owner needs from day one. Everything else on this list is a luxury that you can add over time as your gaming habits settle.
For more setup and gear recommendations, check out our must-have PS5 and Xbox Switch accessories guide and our best gaming chairs roundup if you are building a full gaming station around your Switch 2.
FAQ
Do I need to buy a microSD Express card for my Nintendo Switch 2?
Not immediately. The Switch 2 comes with 256GB of internal UFS 3.1 storage, which is enough for roughly 8 to 12 major titles. But if you buy games digitally, you will eventually need to expand. Nintendo confirms that only microSD Express cards are compatible, so standard microSD cards from your old Switch will not work for game storage.
What is the best Nintendo Switch 2 case for everyday use?
For handheld-heavy players, the Dbrand Killswitch 2 is the best overall. It improves ergonomics, protects the console body, and includes a dock adapter. For travelers, the Belkin Charging Case with its built-in 10,000 mAh power bank is the smarter choice.
Is the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller worth $79.99?
If you play primarily in docked mode, yes. The build quality, HD Rumble 2, headphone jack, and mappable back buttons make it the best controller experience on the platform. If you mostly play handheld, save the money and put it toward a grip case instead.
Can I use my old Switch Pro Controller on the Switch 2?
The original Switch Pro Controller does not work with the Switch 2. You need either the new Switch 2 Pro Controller, a compatible third-party controller like the 8BitDo Pro 3, or the included Joy-Con 2 controllers.
What microSD Express card size should I buy?
256GB is the sweet spot for most players. Combined with the 256GB internal storage, you get roughly 500GB total, which holds 15 to 25 games depending on their size. The jump to 512GB costs significantly more and most players will not need it unless they maintain a massive all-digital library.
Should I buy the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera?
Only if you regularly play online with friends who also own Switch 2 consoles and want to use the GameChat video feature. For solo players or local multiplayer households, the camera adds minimal value at its $49.99 price point.
Will Switch 2 accessories prices drop during sales?
Yes. During Amazon Prime Day 2026 in late June, several accessories saw significant discounts. The Samsung P9 Express 256GB card dropped from $79.99 to $39.99, and several third-party controllers and cases were 20 to 33% off. Black Friday and holiday sales will likely bring similar or better deals.
What accessories come in the Switch 2 box?
The console package includes the Switch 2 unit, a pair of Joy-Con 2 controllers with straps, a dock, an AC adapter, and an HDMI cable. No screen protector, no carrying case, no microSD Express card.
Final Thoughts: Spend Smart, Protect First
The Nintendo Switch 2 is an incredible piece of hardware, but Nintendo clearly designed it with the expectation that you will spend additional money on accessories. The good news is that you do not need everything on this list. A screen protector and a basic case will cover most people for months. A microSD Express card becomes necessary once your digital library grows. And a Pro Controller or Killswitch grip case only matters once you know whether docked or handheld is your primary play style.
My biggest regret from the past year was not buying a screen protector on day one. Do not make that mistake. The JSAUX three-pack costs less than a coffee and could save you hundreds in screen repairs.
For more Switch 2 coverage, read our complete breakdown of the best Nintendo Switch 2 games in 2026 and our look at the upcoming Star Fox Nintendo Switch 2 remake. And if you are weighing whether to pick up the console before the September price hike, our best console comparison guide can help you decide where the Switch 2 fits alongside PS5 and Xbox in your setup.
