Nintendo Switch Accessories Review: Which Add-Ons Are Worth Your Money?
This morning started, as most do, with me out in the garden trying to make sense of a flower bed that seems determined to ignore all instructions. The wind had a bite to it—typical Norfolk—and by the time I came inside, fingers a bit stiff, I thought I’d sit down with a record and something less stubborn to deal with.
That “something” turned out to be a box of Nintendo Switch Accessories I’d been meaning to test. Now, the Nintendo Switch itself is a clever hybrid system—half traditional console, half handheld—but once you start adding bits and pieces, things can quickly become either useful… or absolute clutter.
What They Don't Tell You in the Ads
Let’s address the common worries straight away.
First, compatibility and gimmicks. A lot of these Accessories—particularly portable gamepads and detachable controllers—promise to improve comfort or performance. Some do. Others are little more than plastic add-ons that make the device bulkier without adding much benefit.
Second, setup and usability. Many of these bits require pairing, adjusting, or attaching in ways that aren’t immediately obvious. Instructions tend to be printed in tiny text or vague diagrams. You’ll need your reading glasses, and possibly a bit of guesswork.
Third, the big one: build quality. Quite a few Accessories feel cheap straight out of the box. Buttons that wobble, grips that creak, stands that don’t quite hold steady. For something meant to enhance your experience, that’s not a promising start.
The Norfolk Stress Test
I spent several evenings trying different Accessories in both handheld mode and on the big screen via the dock.
A set of bulkier controllers designed to replace the standard detachable controllers did improve comfort. They were far more comfortable to hold, especially for longer sessions. My hands didn’t cramp as quickly, which is no small thing at my age.
However, they made the console noticeably larger. Fine if you’re sitting in your armchair, less so if you’re travelling or trying to slip it into a modest bag.
I also tested a simple stand for tabletop play. Left it in the conservatory overnight—around 6°C—and it held up well enough. No warping or slipping, though the hinge felt a touch loose after repeated use.
Charging docks and grips varied. Some worked flawlessly; others required a bit of wiggling to get a proper connection. That sort of thing becomes irritating quickly.
The Annoyances
Here’s where things begin to wear thin.
- Overly bulky designs: Some Accessories turn a neat handheld into something awkward and heavy.
- Loose fittings: Not everything clicks into place as securely as it should.
- Inconsistent quality: One item feels solid, the next feels like it came out of a Christmas cracker.
And frankly, a number of these Accessories don’t improve the experience enough to justify their existence.
Sifting Through the Amazon Reviews
A look through Amazon reviews tells a familiar story.
The 5-star reviews tend to focus on how something “looks great” or arrived quickly. Not especially helpful.
The more grounded 3-star reviews highlight:
- Poor fit or awkward design, especially with third-party controllers
- Accessories that feel good initially but wear out quickly
- Complaints about items being more decorative than practical
To be fair, there are a few genuinely useful pieces—particularly ergonomic grips and sturdier stands—but they’re mixed in with a lot of average offerings.
The Brass Tacks (Questions You Lot Keep Asking)
Do these accessories actually improve comfort in handheld mode?
Some do, particularly the bulkier controllers. Others just add weight without helping much.
Are third-party controllers as good as the originals?
Not usually. They can be comfortable, but often lack the same build quality or responsiveness.
Is it easy to set everything up?
Not always. Expect a bit of fiddling, especially with pairing and fitting parts together.
Do you really need all these accessories for the Nintendo Switch?
No. Most are optional, and many won’t add enough value to justify the cost.
Who Should Walk Away?
If you’re someone who prefers simple, straightforward setups, a lot of these Accessories will feel like unnecessary clutter.
Also, if you’ve got limited patience for fiddly attachments or inconsistent quality, you’re better off sticking with the basics.
The Pensioner’s Verdict
The world of Nintendo Switch Accessories is a mixed assortment of genuinely useful tools and unnecessary extras.
A few items—particularly ergonomic controllers and sturdy stands—are worth having and do improve comfort, especially for older hands. But much of what’s out there is either poorly made or simply not needed.
My advice is simple: buy selectively, not enthusiastically. The Nintendo Switch works perfectly well on its own. Add to it only where there’s a clear benefit.
Right, the tea’s getting cold and I need to check on the tomatoes.
Cheers,
William
