Portables hand-held consoles like the Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and PlayStation can provide your on-the-go fix when you need another gaming session.
But while the portability feature can make gaming more convenient, you will also face higher odds of damaging the unit. Whether by accidentally dropping it or spilling something on it, you’ll need to be extra careful.
That’s where a good case makes sense. So, if you’re the proud owner of a Switch 2, a Switch 2 case should be a priority. It’s a small investment that protects your console.
The portable gaming console market worldwide was worth $11.49 billion in 2024 and is on pace to expand to $12.85 billion this year. If you own or plan to buy one, you’ll find that getting a case for it is a relatively inexpensive expenditure. Yet it’s an expense that can bring you benefits that exceed what you pay to purchase one.
When looking for a case, you need to find the right one for your console. An improper case won’t provide full protection against damage from drops, water exposure, or sharp objects. The right case, meanwhile, will extend the longevity of your hand-held console.
Here are five essentials to remember when choosing a case for your hand-held console.
1. Protection Against Drops and Impacts
A quality console is worth protecting if you work hard for your money and enjoy gaming. While being able to take your console with you is great, that opens it up to possible damage.
Whether traveling for work purposes, visiting friends, or simply moving from one room to another at home, there are risks that come with carrying around a console.
Look for one with a hard shell exterior, a padded interior, and a custom fit. It should also be possible to charge up your hand-held console without removing it from the case.
2. Ample Storage for Accessories
A good case not only protects your console but also enables you to carry all your accessories. That includes game cartridges, charging cables, earphones, or a power bank.
Seek out a case with card pockets, accessory pouches, and other storage features.
3. Portability and Convenience
One of the best things about owning a portable console is that you can easily play where you want to. Your case needs to be travel-friendly and easy to take with you. Whether you’re stuffing it into a backpack or lugging it around in an empty bag, you need the protection a case offers.
You’ll want a case that is thin, lightweight, and that includes handles or straps.
If you’re always on the move, choose one that can easily fit in overhead compartments or backpacks. Gamers who are frequently on the move require convenience.
4. Water Resistance and Dustproof
Gaming consoles have delicate electronics. Exposing your console to water, moisture, or dust can ruin gameplay and shorten the lifespan of the unit. Protection from the environment should therefore be one of the factors to consider when selecting a case.
Features to look for include materials resistant to rain, moisture, and spills. Sealed pockets and easy-to-clean surfaces should also be a priority.
5. Design and Build Quality
It’s a good idea to get a case with a strong build quality. Focusing too much on cost may result in you buying a low-quality case. Quality construction and attention to detail are needed.
Find a case with heavy-duty stitching and heavy-duty zippers, interior organization, and a premium design that suits your tastes.
Your gaming console is an investment. A case offers protection, storage, and convenience in one package. By focusing on durability, storage, portability, environmental protection, and overall quality, you’ll find a case that not only keeps your console safe but also enhances your gaming experience wherever life takes you.
