Editor’s Note, April 26, 2026: With this update, we are adding the 256GB SanDisk microSD card. Existing selections have been examined for validity and availability.
The bigger and more powerful Change 2 is Nintendo’s approach at the moment, but the original Change (and OLED switch) is still a brilliant gaming system and by far the least expensive of all the major gaming consoles. It has a deep library, a fantastic hybrid handheld console design, and plenty of new titles coming out all the time. That said, you can improve the Switch with more powerful controllers, more storage, and a faster network connection, just to name a few possible improvements. If you’re ready to level up your Switch, start with these recommended accessories and peripherals. And if you’re wondering what to play, take a look the best nintendo switch games.
Recommended by our editors
Best own gamepad
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Nintendo makes excellent accessories and the Switch Pro Controller is one of the company’s best. It feels good in the hand, works well, and has almost all of the same features as the Joy-Con, including Amiibo scanning and motion sensing technology. If you primarily play with a Switch docked, this is a much more ergonomic option than using the Joy-Con and grips.
Best budget Nintendo Switch Pro controller
The Switch Pro Controller is a good gamepad in its own right, but the more affordable 8Bitdo Pro 2 surpasses it on almost every front. Works perfectly with Switch, PC and Android devices; It has programmable rear buttons; and supports full control remapping with macros through its Windows app, all for under $50. It can’t scan Amiibo, but otherwise it’s a Switch Pro Controller killer with even more to offer.
Best Nintendo Switch arcade device
The Switch has plenty of classic arcade games, so you’ll want to capture the authentic feel with a joystick. The 8Bitdo Arcade Stick is just that: a rugged joystick controller that connects to the Switch or a PC via Bluetooth or a USB transmitter. It works well and, although it may not have the authentic component of more “serious” products, fighting sticksIt’s also much less expensive than that kind of competitive controller.
Do you want more buttons? 8bitdo also offers a leverless Hit Box system. All Buttons Arcade Controller which replaces the stick with buttons. It is an affordable alternative for anyone interested in getting into fighting games.
Best Joy-Con Replacement
Joy-Con controllers are smart and flexible, but they’re not the most convenient input devices. However, the Hori Split Pad Pro is a great alternative when using the Switch as a portable device. These Joy-Con controllers only work when plugged directly into the system, but they are large, comfortable to hold, and have a well-designed direction pad for gaming. fighting games and platforms.
The best budget wireless headphones
The Switch supports Bluetooth, but not all headphones support multiple connections well. The Razer Barracuda X does this, using a USB-C transmitter that works with the system and can provide even better sound than most Bluetooth connections. It also has Bluetooth, so you can switch between your Switch and your phone with the press of a button, all for under $100.
Best for expanding your Switch storage
The Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite each have 32GB of storage and the OLED Switch has 64GB. That’s enough to get you started in the early days of Switch ownership, but not enough to build a decent game library that doesn’t require you to constantly uninstall games to make room for new ones. Fortunately, the Switch has a microSD card slot that accepts standard microSD cards up to 2TB. MicroSD cards have become more expensive in the past year, but you can still get a 256GB card like this SanDisk drive for under $80. It doesn’t have to be a Nintendo brand card either; any UHS-1 microSD card will work with the system.
Best for 4K video capture
The Capture button on the Switch lets you take screenshots and short video clips, but that’s not enough to streamers and other content creators. If you want to record or stream your gameplay, you need a separate capture device like the Elgato HD60 It is compatible 4K video at 30 frames per second, but 1080p60 mode is more important for Switch video.
Best for wired networks
Wired Internet LAN Adapter for Nintendo Switch
This is an accessory specific to the original Switch, as its dock doesn’t have an Ethernet port like the Switch OLED or Switch 2. The Switch’s Wi-Fi is reliable, but if you want the fastest internet speeds when the console is docked, you need a wired network connection. This Ethernet adapter made by Hori plugs into the base of the switch so you can connect a cable from your router. Now enjoy the silky multiplayer action.
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