Nintendo Switch Batteries & Chargers Review: Which Ones Actually Charge Properly?
It was one of those grey Norfolk afternoons where the garden looks like it’s given up for the day. I’d just finished staking a rather stubborn tomato plant when the drizzle set in properly, so I retreated indoors, dried off, and put on a bit of Miles Davis.
Sitting there with a cup of tea, I noticed the Nintendo Switch blinking at me—battery nearly gone again. That’s what led me down the path of testing a handful of Nintendo Switch Batteries & Chargers from Amazon. If you’re going to rely on the thing, you need power that’s dependable, not temperamental.
What They Don't Tell You in the Ads
Let’s start with the obvious concern: Compatibility.
A fair number of these chargers—particularly from Amazon “Exclusive Selections”—claim universal compatibility. That’s not entirely rubbish, but it’s not entirely true either. Some USB Cable setups charge slower than a proper AC Adapter, and a few simply don’t deliver enough power to keep up while you’re actually playing.
Then there’s charging speed. Many listings promise “fast charging,” but in reality, some are barely quicker than a trickle. If you’re playing something demanding, the battery can still drain while plugged in. That’s not charging—that’s treading water.
And finally, build quality. Cheap Wall Outlet adapters can feel worryingly light, with cables that bend too easily near the connector. That’s usually where they fail first.
The Norfolk Stress Test
I put several chargers through their paces over a week—using them in the living room, bedroom, and once in the conservatory where temperatures dipped to around 7°C overnight.
The official-style AC Adapter performed best. Plug it into the Wall Outlet, and it charges steadily without fuss. No overheating, no odd noises. Does what it says on the tin.
Some third-party USB Cable options, however, were less impressive. One took nearly 3 hours to charge the console from low to full. Another became slightly warm at the plug end—not alarming, but not entirely reassuring either.
I also tested a portable battery pack. Useful in theory, especially if you’re travelling, but it added noticeable weight. Holding the console with a cable dangling and a battery pack nearby felt a bit of a faff, particularly with hands that aren’t as steady as they once were.
The Annoyances
A few persistent irritations cropped up.
- Loose connections: Some USB-C cables didn’t sit snugly, leading to intermittent charging.
- Short cables: You’d be surprised how many are under 1 metre. Not ideal if your socket isn’t right next to your chair.
- Charging indicators: On some units, the lights are either too dim or unnecessarily bright—neither particularly helpful.
And of course, there’s the usual issue of needing multiple chargers if you move between rooms. It adds up.
Sifting Through the Amazon Reviews
A look at Amazon reviews paints a familiar picture.
The 5-star reviews often focus on “Great Prices” and quick delivery, but say very little about long-term reliability. That’s always a red flag.
The more honest 3-star reviews mention:
- Slow charging speeds, especially with non-official adapters
- Cables fraying after a few months
- Concerns about inconsistent Compatibility with different Nintendo Switch models
To be fair, the better-reviewed chargers—usually slightly more expensive—tend to hold up well and deliver consistent performance.
The Brass Tacks (Questions You Lot Keep Asking)
Do you need the official AC Adapter, or will any USB Cable do?
Not any cable will do. Cheaper ones often charge slowly or inconsistently—best to stick with something properly rated.
Can you play while charging without draining the battery?
Only with a decent charger. The weaker ones won’t keep up, especially with demanding games.
Are third-party chargers safe to use?
Some are, some aren’t. If it feels cheap and flimsy, it probably is—best avoided.
Do you need to be careful about cable length and fit?
Yes. Short or loose cables quickly become irritating, especially if your socket isn’t nearby.
Who Should Walk Away?
If you’re hoping to save a few pounds by buying the cheapest option on Amazon, you’ll likely end up disappointed.
Also, if you don’t want to deal with trial and error on Compatibility, stick to well-reviewed, reliable chargers rather than bargain-bin offerings.
The Pensioner’s Verdict
The world of Nintendo Switch Batteries & Chargers is, frankly, a bit of a minefield.
A good AC Adapter is reliable, steady, and worth the investment. Cheaper USB Cable options can work, but many fall short when it matters most.
If you value your time and patience, spend a little more on something solid. Otherwise, you’ll be left watching a charging icon that moves at a snail’s pace.
Right, the tea’s getting cold and I need to check on the tomatoes.
Cheers,
William
