This is the first thing you should buy for your Nintendo Switch

Switch Oled
(Image credit: Nintendo)

The Nintendo Switch is a highly versatile hybrid console, as useful in your living room as it is on the bus. With all sorts of excellent games to choose from, the Nintendo Switch remains an excellent purchase, even years after its initial launch. 

The Nintendo Switch is one of the best gaming consoles out there. However, as with any new investment, you might be wondering what to buy so as to get the most out of the console. 

Though our guide to the  best Nintendo Switch accessories will see you right, there's one thing that you should definitely buy before you even think about investing in any other goodies for your machine. In fact, failing to make this particular investment is one of the most common mistakes people make with the console. 

So sit back, relax, and read on to find out the most important accessory you can buy for your shiny new Nintendo Switch. 

Safety first

The Orzly Switch Carry Case

(Image credit: Orzly)

The hybrid nature of the Nintendo Switch means that, most likely, you'll be taking it with you so you can play games on the go. With all the great Nintendo Switch games available, who could blame you? However, though relatively tough, a Nintendo Switch is far from indestructible. 

All it takes is one bad knock or nasty scratch, and your lovely touch screen won't be so lovely anymore. Many a time have we heard of a poor Nintendo Switch owner who accidentally put their Switch into the same bag pocket as their keys, only to later find that their screen had been horribly scratched up in transit. 

Fortunately, there is a better way. Investing in even the cheapest and most cheerful carry case will do wonders for your console's lifespan. Though any of these Nintendo Switch carry cases would do a great job, I recommend the Orzly carry case in terms of sheer value for money. 

Orzly Carry Case for Nintendo Switch: $14.89 at Amazon

Orzly Carry Case for Nintendo Switch: $14.89 at Amazon

This carry case offers a sturdy and practical EVA shell for your Nintendo Switch, along with a handy pocket to help carry extra Joy-Cons, games and other accessories. If you don't mind the plain design, this is an excellent and cost-effective way to keep your console safe.

Investing in a carry case is one of the smartest moves you can make as a Nintendo Switch owner. I know my carry case has kept my Switch safe through many a long journey. It may seem like a small purchase, but, your console (and your wallet) will thank you in the long run. 

Cat Bussell
Freelance contributor

An editor and freelance journalist, Cat Bussell has been writing about video games for more than four years and, frankly, she’s developed a taste for it. As seen on TechRadar, Technopedia, The Gamer, Wargamer, and SUPERJUMP, Cat’s reviews, features, and guides are lovingly curated for your reading pleasure.

A Cambridge graduate, recovering bartender, and Cloud Strife enjoyer, Cat’s foremost mission is to bring you the best coverage she can, whether that’s through helpful guides, even-handed reviews, or thought-provoking features. She’s interviewed indie darlings, triple-A greats, and legendary voice actors, all to help you get closer to the action. When she’s not writing, Cat can be found sticking her neck into a fresh RPG or running yet another Dungeons & Dragons game.