Belkin has introduced a new accessory for the Nintendo Switch 2, the Charging Grip, which aims to enhance the handheld experience by combining ergonomic grips with a magnetically attached 10,000mAh battery. This modular system offers the potential to more than double the Switch 2's playtime without the need for separate cables or external battery packs.
The Charging Grip itself consists of three parts: two grips for the detachable Joy-Cons and a backplate that attaches to the main console body. According to user testing, these grips are easier to attach to the Joy-Cons than some competing products and provide a secure fit, preventing significant wobble during use. However, the reviewer found that the flared design of the grips led to an uncomfortable sensation during certain movements, causing hands to feel like they were pushing the grips away. While not as cramp-inducing as using the Switch 2 without any accessories, they did not make the controllers disappear from conscious thought as effectively as some other grips on the market.
A notable advantage of the Belkin Charging Grip is its compatibility with the Switch 2 dock. The accessory can remain attached when placing the console in its dock, though this raised concerns about potential overheating. While Belkin engineers reportedly found no issues and the cover includes ventilation holes, the console felt warmer than usual after extended docked sessions. The cover's slim profile, which allows for dock compatibility, also led to a perception of reduced protective qualities. The design features cutouts for all buttons and ports, but the lack of raised buttons over the power and volume rocker made accidental presses, like putting the console to sleep when intending to adjust volume, a recurring issue.
The magnetically attached 10,000mAh battery slides onto the backplate. The magnetic connection is described as strong enough for casual use but can be dislodged with a firm shake. This raises concerns about accidental detachment, potentially damaging the console's USB-C port if the battery is yanked away while connected. The battery unit itself is slender and flat, featuring a single USB-C port and an integrated cable that folds into its body.
Attaching the battery significantly increases the Switch 2's weight by approximately 0.44 lb. This added heft shifts the console's balance backward, making it less comfortable to hold for extended periods, particularly in upright playing positions. While manageable when lounging with hands braced, it reportedly led to discomfort and a desire to look down at the console at awkward angles, causing neck strain.
In terms of performance, the 10,000mAh battery provided roughly one and a half additional charges for the Switch 2. A full depletion of the battery unit allowed the console to reach full charge, with a subsequent recharge topping it up to about 45 percent. Playing through several games, the battery lasted just over three hours before being exhausted, returning the console to its internal power source. This is less than the performance offered by Belkin's Charging Case, which provided nearly two full charges and over three and a half hours of playtime.
The Charging Grip is available for purchase on Amazon. The full kit, including the battery, is priced at $99.99, while the grip and backplate alone cost $39.99. The reviewer noted that while the modularity and dock compatibility are appealing, the substantial weight added by the battery makes it less practical for many users compared to simply using existing external power banks. The additional $60 cost for the battery further complicates its value proposition, leading to the conclusion that the grips and dock-compatible back cover alone offer more value than the battery-inclusive package.