I got my hands on the Nintendo Switch 2 right after Donkey Kong Banaza came out, and much to my surprise, the larger console wasn’t actually more comfortable to hold than the older Switch.
That said, Canadian company Dbrand seemed to know this ahead of time and right at launch sent over its KillSwitch case. While some users seemed to report issues with the initial run of cases, mine has been fine, and Dbrand has listened to the feedback and updated the design so anyone buying one today will have zero issues.
The main issue is the larger grips that make the Joy-Cons fit in your hand more like a traditional controller. There’s something about the flat joysticks and larger controller that forced my thumbs to bend at the bottom knuckle more than I’m used to. And I’m ashamed to say it, but after an hour or so of gaming, the pain would intensify. (Is this what getting older is like?)
Even using the Joy-Cons detached from the console in their controller grip caused the same issues. The Pro Controller is fine, and I never had this specific pain with the older Switch 1 Joy-Cons. However, the larger size of the new ones seems to be working against them.
That is, until you slap on a large case like the Killswitch. However, that comes with a few other problems, which Dbrand has the answers for, but it will cost you. The base model of the case just comes with the grips and an adapter to help fit the thicker unit into the Switch 2 dock. It also comes with a Dbrand skin if you want. This tier costs US$60 (C$83).
However, I think most should upgrade to the Travel tier, which costs US$80 (C$110) but includes a travel cover, turning the grip into a true case you can toss in a bag. The hard plastic cover also feels robust, like it will actually protect your console. This option also comes with stick grips, which make the joysticks a bit taller, which also helps with my joint pain.
You can upgrade to the US$99 (C$137) Ultra tier if you also want screen protectors, extra Joy-Con grips (if you have four controllers), and an extra game card holder that fits into the travel cover. Personally, I like matte screen protectors, so I bought this one, but the Dbrand one feels stronger and clearer for anyone who wants a glossy one.
Beyond all of that, the case feels really comfortable in my adult-sized hands. While I’d rather have the switch caseless since I love its minimal look, as much as I tried, it just wasn’t a great experience. The Dbrand case adds some bulk, meaning you need an adapter to use the dock as well, but that’s part of the package by default and works quite well. That said, you do need to take the Joy-Con grips off to fit them into the controller attachment.
If you’ve been finding the Switch 2 uncomfortable to hold, hopefully, this case will solve your problems, too.
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