The best Nintendo Switch accessories

Before our review of the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, we were worried that it would take some of the Switch's unique charm. When we got our hands on one, our worries were instantly thrown aside. The larger size, button layout and offset analogue stick configuration make it one of the most comfortable controllers available for any console today. It elevates the gameplay of so many titles. For any gamer coming to the Switch from a traditional console background, this is a must. It's simply one of the best controllers.

Read our full Nintendo Switch Pro Controller review

Many of the Switch's greatest titles are best shared with friends, so grabbing an extra set of JoyCons should be the first port of call for any Switch owner. Plus, they're available in a huge range of colours.

Nothing puts a dampener on an eShop spending spree quicker than full internal memory. This high-capacity memory upgrade has all the space a Nintendork could need.

For gamers of old, the GameCube is often viewed as having the finest controller Nintendo ever produced. It's ergonomic, well laid out and radiates retro-gaming class. The new Switch GameCube controllers, which are actually called Battle Pads (but we all know the deal), bring the quality of yesteryear right up to date, complete with a 10ft cable. The Battle Pad is available with decals celebrating Zelda, Luigi, Peach, Mario and Pikachu.

These joystick toppers have it all. They prevent the Switch's grip-tops from wearing, the ridged edges prevent fingers from slipping and the design pays tribute to some of Nintendo's greatest characters.

The Switch's inbuilt stand is fine for the occasional table-top game session, but ultimately the low-angle and one-sided stand doesn't provide the best experience. The PlayStand is foldable, compact, adjustable, stable and offers a raised pedestal for improved screen positioning. The design also has a cutaway for the charger lead.

Snakebyte's Switch Games Tower is a great accessory for anyone with plenty of games, controllers and other small accessories. The tower works as an all-in-one solution, holding 10 games, four controllers and even the Switch docking station itself via a click-in bracket on the top. There's also a small draw at the bottom, which helps keep cables out of the way until required (though, it's worth noting that the draws pops open with a firm tug, rather than gently sliding out). Read about our hands-on look at the tower here.

Can't get enough New Horizons? Neither can we, so we're always on the hunt for new and exciting Animal Crossing merchandise. When we stumbled across this cute Switch skin set, we couldn't spend our Bells fast enough.

This dock will fully charge four JoyCons simultaneously. For anyone with more than one set of JoyCons, this is a necessity, negating the need to dock the controllers with the Switch to recharge. Ideal for when the crew is heading over for a brawl on Smash Bros.

One of the Switch's biggest strengths is its thriving indie game catalogue. The eShop is the place to hit up for some of the most unusual, inventive and exciting gaming experiences, with titles like Dead Cells, Hollow Knight and The Touryst being amongst the best the Switch has to offer.

We were very impressed by the Split Pad Pro when we reviewed it. By offsetting the analogue sticks, HORI has provided clear access to the d-pad and action buttons which is ideal for fast-paced gameplay in titles like Metro Redux or Astral Chain. The larger controller size offers an improved grip over the JoyCons, and on the underside hides two programmable triggers, intended to give the player and extra advantage in the file of play. Even if you're not a fan of Daemon X Machina, this innovative controller is worth considering. Just be aware that there's no rumble or motion control.

Read our full Hori Split Pad Pro Controller – Daemon X Machina Edition review

A slimline case that'll protect a Nintendo Switch, carry five game cards and is decorated Snorlax, every Pokémon fan's favourite lazy boy.

While the Switch has a lot to offer, one surprising omission from the system is Bluetooth connectivity. This adapter rights this wrong, allowing wireless headphones or speakers to be connected to in handheld mode. The device plugs into the USB charging port, meaning that the Switch cannot be charged while the Vivefox is in use.

While the internal foam game card holders are brilliant, and the quality aluminium construction is something to admire, the real reason this Funlab Premium Game Card Case is on an essential Switch accessory list is because it's a Pokémon Pokedex.

In no way downplaying its eccentric reputation, Nintendo released this set, the absolutely bonkers Labo Variety Kit. The kit comes with a series of user-constructed cardboard peripherals which all, in varying ways and to varying degrees, interact with the Switch to offer truly unique gameplay. This kit includes the Labo software, a cardboard fishing rod, a piano, a house, and bug, and the motorbike handles (which can also be used with Mario Kart 8).

Though the Switch is not designed as a VR console, there are some titles that offer compatibility, namely Zelda: Breath Of The Wild, Super Smash Bros and Super Mario Odyssey. The Ovio VR headset seeks to allow gamers access to the feature with a lightweight and supportive head mount. With the JoyCons docked the gameplay can be jarring and uncomfortable, however when paired with a Switch Pro controller, the experience improves considerably. The Ovio won't change the face of VR gaming, but it sure is fun.