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The Nintendo Switch 2 is bigger, faster, and pickier than the original Switch — and that last part matters for accessories. Your old Switch case will not fit it, your old screen protector will not fit it, and your old microSD card will not work for Switch 2 games at all. If you just got the console, these are the five accessories worth buying first, starting with the one that is not optional.
1. Samsung microSD Express Card 256GB — around $59.99
This is the first accessory every Switch 2 owner needs. The Switch 2 only accepts microSD Express cards for Switch 2 games; a standard microSD card from your old Switch cannot be used for them, no matter how much space it has. The Samsung 256GB card is the officially licensed option, with read speeds up to 800 MB/s, and 256GB doubles the console’s built-in storage. It is the cheapest way to stop deleting games to make room.
2. Belkin Tempered Glass Anti-Reflective Screen Protector — around $24.99
The Switch 2’s screen is larger and it travels everywhere, which is exactly how screens get scratched. Belkin’s tempered glass protector is scratch-resistant, cuts glare with its anti-reflective finish, and is designed to go on cleanly without bubbles. For the price of a pizza, it protects the most expensive part of a handheld to replace.
3. Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector — around $39.99
Nintendo’s own carrying case is built for the Switch 2’s larger size, with room for the console and game cards, plus a screen protector in the box. If you would rather buy one thing that covers both protection jobs — a case for the bag and a protector for the screen — this is the straightforward official option, and it avoids the sizing mistakes that come with buying original-Switch cases.
4. Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller — around $89.99
For docked play, the Pro Controller is still the best way to play Switch 2. It has HD Rumble 2, motion controls, a C Button that opens GameChat instantly, and two rear buttons you can remap to anything, plus an audio jack for headsets. Battery runs around 40 hours, so it lasts weeks of evening sessions between charges. It is the priciest pick on this list, but it is also the one you will touch every single day.
5. Nintendo Switch 2 Camera — around $54.99
The Switch 2 Camera plugs into the console’s USB-C port and powers GameChat video calls, so friends can see each other while playing, plus CameraPlay games that put you on screen. It shoots 1080p with a wide field of view and has a privacy shutter for when it is not in use. Note that GameChat itself needs a Nintendo Switch Online membership, so factor that in if you do not already have one.
Looking for more gear? Check out the GrabYourLoot Shop for controllers, headsets, and storage we recommend.
What to look for
Three rules will save you from bad buys. First, storage must say microSD Express — plain microSD, even a fast one, will not run Switch 2 games. Second, cases and screen protectors must say Switch 2 specifically; the new console is larger, so original Switch accessories do not fit. Third, remember that GameChat features need a Nintendo Switch Online membership, camera or not. Prices move around by retailer and over time, so the prices above are approximate — check the current price before you buy.
If you buy one thing first, buy the microSD Express card. Everything else on this list makes the console nicer to use; the card is the one that keeps you playing without deleting games.
