Nintendo Switch 2 Controller Charging Guide: Best Grips, Docks & Multi-Functional Charging Stations

Sometimes the biggest challenge of a gaming session is also the most simple and common one- did you remember to put your controllers on charge the night before after your gaming session or not? This can easily be the make or break for your ability to enjoy a little gaming session after a day of hard work. Thankfully, in this day and age there are a bunch of different charging solutions available to you- from the simplest built-in options to slick multi-device stations. Each type has its own pros and cons, so let’s walk through the most common and practical ways of keeping your JoyCons and Pro Controllers topped off and we’ll even throw in some product recommendations to make your life easier. 

First off is the most obvious solution- build-in charging via the handheld console itself. Yep, it’s as simple as sliding your JoyCons back into the Switch 2 and letting them charge up as you’re busy at work or another task during the day. It’s a simple solution that doesn't need any extra steps, and works with the system’s own USB-C power as well, making it extremely convenient if you’re already done gaming for the day. However, the shortfall is that it doesn't help you much if your JoyCons are on low power but you’re not done playing yet, since that would mean plugging them in and leaving the console be while the JoyCons charge away, eating into your gaming time. 

Thankfully, we have a solution for that. If you’re looking to charge and play without having to plug the JoyCons back into your Switch 2, Grip charging is an extremely versatile and solid middle ground. Charging grips let you attach your JoyCons to it like a mini controller, and once you plug in a cable it allows you for a hand-free charging solution for your JoyCons, allowing you to continue gaming while charging. A perfect example of this is the JoyVerse Dual JoyCon Grip for the Switch 2 (Thickened) which both offer ergonomic comfort as well as LED indicators so you can see exactly when the JoyCons are done charging without the need to guess. To add to all this choice, you also have the JoyCon All-Rounder Grip Case with Travel Cover for the Switch 2, which adds a secure grip design as well as a protective shell that makes it incredibly easy to charge, store as well as offer incredible protection for your controllers when travelling. These high quality grips not only protect and power your JoyCons, they also provide comfort for long gaming sessions without getting hand-fatigue. 



Now on the other hand, if we’re talking about dedicated charging setups, especially when you throw in multiple controllers and JoyCons into the mix, individual adapters and dock chargers are where things start to get more interesting. A compact unit such as the EnergyFlow | Joy-Con Charging Dock for Switch 2 lets you charge up to four different JoyCons at the same time, and the station also features LED status lights that show when each device is fully charged as well. It’s compact and surprisingly travel friendly too. If you’ve got a mix of both JoyCons and a Pro Controller, we have a recommendation for that scenario too in the form of the Joy-Con Energy Station for Switch, which can handle both in the same spot making it the ideal choice for multiplayer gaming sessions or family groups. 



If neither of these options are what you’re interested in, but instead you’re looking for that all inclusive powerhouse option that goes beyond just charging your controllers, that’s where Multifunctional docks come into the equation and are definitely worth your time. To that end, the 6-in-1 Gaming Dock with the M.2 SSD Enclosure and 100W Charger not only charges up to four different JoyCons and a Pro Controller, but it also adds in HDMI output, a high speed USB hub, wired network capability and even game storage (essentially the power of the sun in the palm of your hands) all from a compact desktop solution. It’s perfect for those power users that are looking for everything in one tidy compact package and don't want the hassle of switching out cables and such. 



At the end of the day, choosing the right charging solution for your Switch 2 setup is going to be unique to each of you and how you like to play. If you’re happy with short gaming sessions and then charging your JoyCons overnight, built-in charging will do just fine. However, if you hate running out of juice mid-gaming marathon and also want to combat hand fatigue, then grips or dedicated docks offer convenience and flexibility to a very high degree. Based on your personal preferences and habits, you can always mix and match as well, so that you’re always ready for your next session, minus the low battery anxiety. Just make sure you check compatibility of your specific controllers and accessories especially when you start exploring third party docks, and ensure that you keep your device firmware up to date from the manufacturer to ensure smooth operation. Happy gaming!