The SwitchGrip Pro is the second generation of grip accessory made by Satisfye, building upon what was already a great design in the first iteration to offer users an improved experience for their handheld play sessions. The first iteration was already a success when it launched, and the developers have since taken the time to consider user and in-house feedback to improve on their initial design, and the result is nothing short of perfection.
Silicone Prevents Any Console Scratching
The first big improvement over the original model lies in the inclusion of silicone throughout the interior that serves to gently maintain the Switch console in the tight grip and preventing plastic-on-plastic contact, meaning that there should be no scratching of the console whatsoever. Satisfye calls this a “No-touch float design”, and it is a fantastic addition to the grip that also provides all the necessary air flow that the console needs.
An Adjusted Right Handle For All Hand Sizes
The second improvement from the first version lies in the fine-tuning of the right handle which has been moved inwards slightly, angled down more than the original model, and now offers smooth edges to accommodate all Joy-cons, including most Hori designs. This provides a more comfortable experience for users with small to medium hands and makes accessing the buttons on the right a comfortable experience.
So Effective You Hardly Notice It, Until You Take It Away
Using the Satisfye SwitchGrip Pro feels natural and is a great addition to handheld play, but it truly shines when trying to go back to the default Nintendo Switch console. The result is quite shocking, because even if one has used the Switch by itself for years and considered it comfortable, the Satisfye SwitchGrip Pro is so well designed and feels like a natural extension of how the console should be made that trying to go back feels crude and awkward. It is a testament to how well the SwitchGrip Pro is designed and attempting to go back to not using it is next to impossible.
Rubber Thumb Pads Included
The inclusion of two rubber thumb pads with the Satisfye logo was a bit of a surprise, but exactly as occurred with the case, their use was enjoyable at first, and then essential to console use. Taking them off the Joy-con was again a shock to see how small the standard thumb sticks are. Together, both the SwitchGrip Pro and rubber thumb pads turn the Nintendo Switch into the ideal handheld console, and Nintendo should be taking notes.
Slim Case? More Like Secure Case!
The slim bundle includes the SwitchGrip Slim Case, which is designed to fit the expanded dimensions that come with using the accessory, keeping everything snug inside. The case is ridiculously sturdy, with thick material throughout, and is by far one of the most heavy-duty cases made to transport a Nintendo Switch. The inside also has a game sleeve to hold up to ten physical games and plush interior lining to keep the console free from any kind of scuff or scratches. The handle feels solid, and the adjacent hooks can be used for a shoulder strap, which can be purchased separately.
Without a doubt, the quality of the case was a pleasant surprise. One would expect the majority of design effort to be placed into the grip, since it is the primary feature that users are shopping for, but the care and effort put into the carrying case reveals a pattern of systemic attention to detail and a desire for high quality.
The Perfect Gift For Any Switch Owner
As stated, it is a curious feeling when one first uses their Nintendo Switch with the SwitchGrip Pro, because it feels great, but the shock comes when trying to go back to the console on its own. Suddenly the cramped position that our hands are forced into becomes noticeable, as do the tiny thumb sticks on the Joy-cons. The SwitchGrip Pro is so well made it immediately feels exactly how the Nintendo Switch should be designed from the very beginning, and is one of the best accessories one could have.
A SwitchGrip Pro Slim Bundle was provided to TheGamer for this review. Anyone who owns a Nintendo Switch should do themselves a favor and head over to www.satisfye.com to order one for themselves. The SwitchGrip Pro is available stand-alone or in Slim, Elite, and Legendary case with a range of accessory bundles to fit the needs of any player.