- System
- Nintendo
- Switch
- Buying Guide
- Best Nintendo Switch Dock 2021
Best Nintendo Switch Dock 2021
-
By Jacob Woodward
- June 29, 2021
- 7 Min Read
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Table of Contents
Some of you may be wondering why would I need a new docking solution for my Switch? Well, you do get supplied the official Nintendo Switch dock with the console when bought new, but if you’re acquiring a second hand Switch, you may be left wanting. Also, you may have just purchased a Nintendo Switch and are simply looking for a better docking alternative for your machine. We’ve compiled some of the best Nintendo Switch docks out there so whether you want a more open look for docked playing, or a simplistic, multi-faceted dock, we’ve got you covered.
In choosing the best Nintendo Switch docking solutions, we’ve aimed to pick out a variety of different options that all offer up their own unique advantages. This, therefore, will allow you to see the full range of different specs you can expect to find on the market so that you can make an informed decision before picking up a new dock for you Switch console.
Best Nintendo Switch Docks
Best Official Nintendo Switch Dock
Nintendo Switch Dock Set
Pros
- Official
- Bundled extras
Cons
- Expensive
The official Nintendo Switch Dock Set has to make the list of best Nintendo Switch docks due to the first party nature, as well as the features Nintendo has included. Not only has it been purposely made solely for the Switch, but has extra USB ports for potentially charging your Pro Controller. Furthermore, as this is a dock set, you’ll not only be getting the dock but an AC adaptor and a USB-C cable which makes it a nice little package, eliminating the need to go out and purchase extra wires. The build quality is also fantastic and has cable tidy holes to keep your setup streamlined which could be a huge plus for those playing their Nintendo Switch in the front room.
Best Portable Nintendo Switch Dock
KINVOCA B94 Switch Dock
Pros
- Compact
- Portable
- Nicely designed
Cons
- Can be fiddly at times
The KINVOCA Switch dock is a radical departure from the Official version both in size and aesthetics. It comes in at a tiny 70mmX70mm which could be a deal breaker for those looking for a minimalist setup. Furthering this, it comes with no front plate, enabling those looking to play their docked Switch in handheld mode rather than opting for the less than study kickstand. The ports included on this dock are bare bones, with 1 HDMI, 1 USB-C and 1 USB which is slightly less than the Official dock and could sway those looking for more ports toward that option.
Best Small Nintendo Switch Dock
RREAKA Multiport Hub
Pros
- Lots of ports
- Portable
- Pocket-sized
Cons
- Need your own power supply
If you’re looking for the most portable, travel friendly Nintendo Switch dock the RREAKA hub is the way to go. It showcases fantastic port options for such a tiny product with HDMI, USB-C, 2x USB and even a headphone jack. Speaking of size, it should fit nicely in your pocket which is a huge advantage over the bulky Official version. To compound the positives of this device, it’s multi-functional. By that we mean that you can utilize it as a phone docking system, making it stand out over the ones designed specifically for the Switch.
Best Adjustable Nintendo Switch Dock
ikedon Switch Dock
Pros
- Adjustable angles
- Nicely designed
- Cooling vents
Cons
- Can be fiddly at times
This portable Nintendo Switch dock from ikedon makes it onto the best Nintendo Switch dock list for a number of reasons. Not only does it have a compact form factor, similar to that of the KINVOCA dock we previously mentioned but it has some interesting added features that you may not even thought you needed. The one touch display functionality is something that makes your life that little bit easier coupled with the blue light which illuminates when connected to your TV. In addition, and probably our favorite feature, is the adjustable viewing angles. This allows you to play in docked handheld mode much more easily, especially in bed when you may not be sitting upright.
Best Cooling Nintendo Switch Dock
VOGEK Switch TV Dock
Pros
- Full screen viewing
- Variety of ports
- Well placed cooling vents
Cons
- No adjustability
VOGEK has created a simple and effective switch dock that, like the others, removes the front face-plate but has the extra ports to set this apart. It offers up a HDMI, 2 USB, 1 USB 3.0 and 2 USB-C ports which allows you to connect multiple controllers, other devices alongside potentially charging your phone. This added functionality definitely makes it an option for those wanting to have a variety of devices hooked up to a dock. The other defining feature is the cooling structure of the product. It allows your Switch to breath almost rather than overheating when playing for long periods, which some may not have even considered.
Things To Consider
Usage
As show with the various different Switch docks above, you have the ability to actually view your Switch’s screen rather than it being covered with the traditional dock plate. This opens up possibilities for those who want to use their Switch docked while travelling and don’t have access to a TV to utilize docked capabilities.
If you do want to use your Switch in this way, you can do so but if you’re not bothered, the Official Switch Dock is always an option.
Portability
Naturally, with the Nintendo Switch being an extremely portable console, you’re likely to use it on the go when travelling or in hotels etc. With third party Switch docks, they offer varying form factors from more bulky designs to simple, pen-like sizes.
This is certainly something that you should consider before picking up a new Switch dock as it could hinder you in the future.
FAQs
Are third-party Switch docks safe now?
There was a time, closer to the initial release of the Nintendo Switch, where third-party docks were causing console owners to experience massive issues with their devices, even bricking in them in some cases. Now, multiple years after release, this is extremely rare and most Switch docks are safe to use with your Nintendo console.
There are some harmful variants out on the market though so do be careful before purchasing.
Does the Switch run better docked?
The short answer is yes, the Nintendo Switch does run better when docked, giving you increased performance in your games and sometimes an improved output resolution.
This is down to the fact that the GPU isn’t drawing power off the installed battery and is instead running off the mains power plugged directly into the dock.
Is it bad to leave Nintendo Switch docked?
No, it is not harmful to your Switch to leave it docked. Contrary to popular belief, leaving your console docked has no effect on battery degradation and you can leave it there for days on end.
Conclusion
RREAKA Multiport Hub
Overall, there are a wide variety of Nintendo Switch docks that could make it onto this best Nintendo Switch dock list but we think that the above cater to all users, offering slightly different USPs in each. When it comes down to choosing the correct Switch dock for you, we think the main things you should consider are if you want to play in docked handheld mode and how portable you want it to be. Our personal selection would be the RREAKA hub as it offers the best portability and doesn’t skimp on the functionality. However, if you do want the official feeling, there’s no reason not to go down the Official Nintendo Switch Dock route.
If you’re looking for some games to accompany your Nintendo Switch or even some accessories, check our our lists of must-have Nintendo Switch games and best Nintendo Switch Accessories.