Which Nintendo Switch case offers the best protection?
Nintendo Switch is one of the best home-gaming consoles on the market, but because its intuitive design allows for portability, it’s also one of the most expensive. If you own a Nintendo Switch, you want to take care of it as best you can.
If you’re looking for a case to keep your Nintendo Switch safe and secure, the RDS Deluxe Travel Case is perfect for its protection, style and storage capabilities.
What to know before you buy a Nintendo Switch case
Material
The Nintendo Switch is relatively heavy for a portable gaming console, weighing approximately 0.66 pounds and 0.88 pounds when both Joy-Cons are attached. Lightweight cases are available, but they’re generally not as protective as those made with EVA plastic, nylon or leather.
That said, a case made with sturdy materials will protect your Nintendo Switch the best, but it also can make lugging it around feel like a chore because of the added weight and bulk.
Size
With both Joy-Con controls attached, the Nintendo Switch has a span of approximately 9.4 inches. A practical case will be just big enough to fit and protect the Switch with both Joy-Cons attached, and possibly store a couple of accessories and games.
There are protective cases designed to hold a large number of accessories and game cards. A larger case is ideal if you have many games or several Nintendo Switch accessories, such as additional Joy-Cons, USB AC adapters, SD cards or charging dock/stations.
Nintendo Switch case features
Protection
The best Nintendo Switch cases have outer shells made from durable materials such as EVA plastic, nylon or leather. The case’s interior should be lined or padded with soft fabric and may include straps to hold the Switch in place.
Your Nintendo Switch should fit snuggly into the case. If the console is loose inside its case, it makes it more susceptible to damage if it falls.
Storage
Protection is paramount, but as a portable console, Nintendo Switch has many accessories. Games are slowly transitioning to digital downloads, so it’s not as much of a concern as in the past to have a case capable of storing several games.
However, you’ll still have to carry around a few accessories, such as a charger, even if you’re a minimalist. Not all cases have deep storage capabilities for accessories. However, those that do are usually larger and bulkier.
Handles and straps
You’ll want to choose a case designed with convenience in mind. A case with handles or straps will make it easier for you to carry around your Nintendo Switch.
Colors
Most Nintendo Switch cases prioritize protection and storage above all else, but that doesn’t mean you have to get a plain-looking case. Many cases feature colors and patterns yet still offer excellent protection and storage capabilities.
Nintendo Switch case cost
You can get a basic Nintendo Switch case for as low as $10. However, cases that offer a higher level of protection can cost up to $30.
Nintendo Switch case FAQ
Are cases with game-card storage better?
A. It’s purely a matter of personal preference. Cases with compartments for game cards offer a convenient way to store games. They’re more practical since it eliminates the need to have them in their original cases, allowing you to carry more games than you would otherwise.
Are there cases that can hold multiple Joy-Cons?
A. Most Nintendo Switch cases have a rudimentary design optimized for safely containing the console when both Joy-Cons are attached, so they don’t leave much room for other controllers. However, larger cases have designated storage compartments for multiple Joy-Cons apart from the two attached to the sides of the console.
Should I always store my Nintendo Switch in a case?
A. Nintendo Switch is an anomaly in the gaming world since it doubles as a home and portable console. For that reason, it’s best to store it in a case whenever it’s not in use.
If your Switch remains stationary, it’s not practical to repeatedly put it away when it’s not in use, although doing so will help keep dust off it. If you use your Switch on the go, storing it when not in use will help prevent accidentally damaging it.
Which Nintendo Switch case should I get?
Best of the best Nintendo Switch case
RDS Deluxe Travel Case: available at Amazon
Our take: This is a sturdy case that provides ultimate drop protection and has an excellent storage setup.
What we like: The simple black design. The middle pocket for storing charging cable also works as a screen protector, and a strap holds the Switch in place. It includes two cases for storing SD or game cards.
What we dislike: It lacks storage compartments for larger accessories, such as controllers.
Best bang for your buck Nintendo Switch case
AmCase Hard Carrying Case: available at Amazon
Our take: This is a unique carrying case with a quality build and several storage slots, which is perfect for those with a lot of game cards.
What we like: There is enough storage for 14 games and a mesh pocket for additional accessories. Tight strap bands keep the Switch in place, and the zipper is smooth.
What we dislike: The wrist strap is small.
Honorable mention Nintendo Switch case
Orzly Protective Travel Case: available at Amazon
Our take: This is a simple yet practical case that provides adequate protection and features a solid storage setup.
What we like: The hard rubber exterior provides excellent drop protection. There is storage for up to eight SD or game cards. It has a strong carrying handle with a rubber grip for support. It has a large mesh flap for holding accessories.
What we dislike: There are no distinguishing features on either side of the case.
Kevin Luna is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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