Monday, November 22, 2021

Third-party Nintendo Switch docks that won't brick your console

Whether your official Nintendo Switch dock is on the fritz or you're looking to purchase a new one for another room in your home, finding one of these best third-party Switch docks you like best is less expensive than springing for a new dock. Third-party docks tend to also be smaller and more portable. However, it's a known fact that some have killed Switch consoles, like with the Switch's firmware 5.0 update debacle. You definitely don't want your console to die on you while you're in the middle of one of the best Nintendo Switch games. We've done the research to determine which third-party docks won't brick your system. There are only a few that we trust in, so the pickings are small, but they're safer than the rest. Take a look and see which one would work best for you.

Word of Warning!

While these third-party manufacturers have taken precautions to create a device that works with current Switch software and updates, a future software update from Nintendo could cause problems at any moment. Remember that using any unofficial accessories puts your Switch console at risk. Please be cautious when considering using anything but the official licensed Nintendo Switch Dock. It's also worth keeping in mind that these third-party docks are designed to work with the regular Nintendo Switch, not the Nintendo Switch Lite or Nintendo Switch OLED.

Sleek look

Skull & Co. Jumpgate Switch Dock

Staff Pick

We love this option because it's cheaper than the official dock but still has a cool look to it. The core drive that provides the USB-C for the dock is removable and works with several other devices. Best of all, this dock comes in five designs, including an NES and SNES design. You'll find an HDMI port, USB-C port, and two USB 2.0 ports on this device.

$43 at Amazon $42 at Skull & Co.

Totally lit

ikedon Switch Dock

This dock functions as both an adjustable stand and a TV dock. You can adjust the angle when playing in tabletop mode to better view the screen or simply press a button on the dock to switch to the TV input. What's more, it's super small, so it won't take up a lot of space on your entertainment center.

$30 at Amazon

Least expensive

Basstop Portable Dock

This option does require you to remove the circuit board from your original dock and place it in this new casing. You'll need to be comfortable with handling that procedure. Doing this should ensure that the dock will be compatible with future Nintendo software updates. It comes in four colors: black, white, green, and red.

$13 at Amazon

All the hubbub

RREAKA Digital AV Multiport Hub

This isn't so much of a dock as it is a hub, but it will still allow you to play your favorite Switch games on your TV screen. What's more, it has a USB-C port, two USB-A ports, and an HDMI port. That way, you can use multiple devices at once while playing your Switch.

$25 at Amazon

Square off

GuliKit Pocket TV Dock

When not in use, this awesome little device assumes a square shape. Simply remove the magnetic cover to access the male USB-C. It features an HDMI Out, USB-A, and an AC adapter port. All you have to do is press the button on the GuliKit to Switch inputs and play on your TV.

$30 at Amazon

Ponkor Switch Dock

Ponkor's Switch Dock lets you charge your Nintendo Switch with a small, sleek vertical display. The conversion display allows you to easily swap between the Switch screen and your TV it's connected to. It's worth noting it doesn't include an HDMI cable, so you'll need to supply that separately yourself.

$30 at Amazon

Best third-party Switch docks

After significant research into the issue, we've determined that these are the best third-party Switch docks in terms of safety. We love that they are more compact than the official hardware and that two of the products offer more than one color choice. When making your decision, you'll want to consider how much you're willing to spend, how small you want the dock to be, and if you want it to have a unique design.

We recommend the Skull & Co. Jumpgate as it provides more convenience than the other options on this list while providing five awesome designs to choose from. It's a compact device that won't take up a lot of room on your entertainment center or in your travel bags. You'll be able to transport it more easily than you would the official dock. We also like that the Core Drive is removable, so it can be used to power other devices in addition to the Switch.

If you're looking for something a little cheaper, we highly recommend getting the ikedon Switch Dock. It's super highly rated on Amazon, and the dock's input button makes it easy to play on your TV. Plus, it doesn't take up a lot of room, so it can fit just about any entertainment center.


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