Nacon Hard Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch 2: review
The Nacon Hard Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch 2 is a reasonably priced case for the handheld console. It offers storage not only for the console itself but also most of its accessories, as well as a handful of Switch games cartridges. So how does it feel in use?
Generally, I’ve found it holds up well. The bright Mario red feels suitably attention-grabbing without being gaudy – I wouldn’t be embarrassed pulling it out on my commute, and it doesn’t remotely feel at odds with the premium console inside. I've seen similar materials getting scuffed or dirty after months of being thrust into a backpack, but in all the time I’ve spent carting it round so far it’s maintained that vibrant hue without picking up any marks.
Given the name of the product, I’d kind of assumed it had been designed with the Nintendo Switch 2 in mind. But if you actually try to place the console in the molded inner tray Nacon has supplied, you quickly realize that it’s far too small, because it’s shaped to fit the original Switch. You can remove this and the Switch 2 will sit snugly in the base of the case, but it’s not quite as well fitted around the console’s Joy-Con 2, which is something I would expect from one of the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories.
Despite this, the Nacon Hard Carrying Case seems sturdy and well constructed. Even squeezed in a bag with my work laptop and climbing gear, it seems to be able to protect the Switch 2 well and keep its shape, even while it's under pressure. I never really felt I had to worry about the safety of my Switch 2 when it was in the Nacon and that’s the kind of peace of mind you’re looking for when picking up a case.
When it comes to additional storage, the Hard Carrying Case has a decent amount of space. The main compartment is capacious enough that I was able to squeeze in the Joy-Con 2 Grip, the Switch 2’s charger and an HDMI cable. Pretty much the only thing I was unable to fit was the console’s dock but if you’re desperate to take this on the go with you, something like the Nacon XL Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch 2 should offer sufficient space for this.
I did occasionally find myself wishing that some of this storage could be better laid out however. I was never that clear what the central pocket was intended for, given it was too small for most accessories but felt an odd fit for loose cabling. Equally, the Nacon’s storage for Switch 2 cartridges is pretty limited – you can fit a maximum of four cards in its little bandolier, which feels like it will fill up fast.
All told though, the Nacon Hard Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch 2 feels like a reliable way to keep your Switch 2 safe and offers a pretty attractive package while it does so. Particularly when you consider its price: at $14.90 / £12.90 (around AU$25), this case very much sits at the more affordable end of the market. So if you’re looking for a cheap way to keep your Switch 2 safe and you’re not too fussy about odd details, this is a decent choice.
Nacon Hard Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch 2 review: specs
Price | $14.90 / £12.90 |
Dimensions | 12 x 5.9 x 1.9 inches (305 x 150 x 50mm) |
Weight | 14.5oz (412g) |
Number of game card slots | 4 |
Compartments | 2 |
Handle | Yes |
Color | Red, black or blue |
Should I buy the Nacon Hard Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch 2?
Design | Decent understated looks, hardy construction; while it comfortably fits the Switch 2, the removable molded tray is only compatible with the original Switch. | 4 / 5 |
Storage | Very few game cartridge slots, no space for Switch 2 Dock, not clear what every pocket is for. | 3.5 / 5 |
Value | Only a few cases come cheaper than this and given what you’re paying for it, it does pretty much everything you could ask of it. | 5 / 5 |
Buy it if…
You need a hard case for not much cash
At $14.90 / £12.90 (around AU$25), this is very much at the cheaper end of the market. If you only care about protecting your Switch 2 without all the extras, it’s a great choice.
You want an attractive accessory
While its style is minimalist, I do think the red and black colorway looks sharp, without garishly advertising what it is. If understated looks are your bag, it should suit you to a T.
Don’t buy it if…
You have a huge physical games collection
As it only offers four slots for Switch cartridges, you’re heavily limited as to how much of your collection you can take on the road. So if you mostly own physical games, you might want to look elsewhere.
You want to take absolutely everything with you
While the Hard Carrying Case can fit a fair number of accessories inside, you’re not going to be able to bring your dock with you, meaning it’s less handy for bringing to a friend’s house or visiting a holiday cottage.
