Essential Accessories to Keep Your Handheld Gaming Device Safe

Today’s handheld gaming scene offers an immersive experience with high-resolution graphics and a variety of game options for popular devices like Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and ROG Ally. However, portable gaming consoles are susceptible to damage from drops, scratches, liquid spills, and everyday wear and tear.

If you love to game, equipping your device with the right protective accessories will help you avoid mishaps that can damage your device.

Here’s a look at some must-have gear that will keep your console in great shape.

1. A sturdy hard shell protective case

A hard case for your gaming console will provide strong protection by absorbing shocks and preventing damage (like cracks) from impacts. Brands like SUPCASE have a reputation for producing durable cases that can withstand significant wear and tear. However, most cases are water-resistant (not waterproof), so you need to be careful.

2. A soft pouch case

When you only need light protection, a soft pouch made from neoprene or fabric can provide a nice cushion against minor bumps and scratches. While soft cases don’t offer the rigidity of hard cases, they’re convenient for daily use and easy to carry. They also tend to come with pockets for storing accessories and game cartridges. Best of all, some soft pouches are big enough to accommodate a console with a hard shell case for those times when you need to carry your console around.

3. A hybrid case

Some cases feature a soft inside with a hard exterior that provides a little more protection against shocks and scratches. The only downside to relying on a carrying case is that it won’t protect your console while it’s in use.

4. A console dock

When you’re gaming at home through your monitor, it’s smart to put your console in a dock to keep it securely in place while you play. And if you love RGB lighting, you’ll be happy to know there are RGB docks for the Steam Deck and ROG Ally.

5. A water-resistant case

There are plenty of cool-looking cases to choose from, but the best ones are water-resistant. If you play games outside, around beverages, or anywhere that might expose your console to water, it’s crucial to buy a water-resistant case. These cases are designed to keep your console safe in case of light spills and even rain, but they are not made for submersion.

6. A screen protector

Your console’s screen is the most vulnerable part of your device. A good screen protector will prevent against light scratches, finger smudges, and cracks. However, a screen protector may not provide you with the best visibility, so you’ll need to choose a protector that won’t obscure your gameplay. There are several types of screen protectors:

• Tempered glass. Tempered glass offers the most protection against scratches and impacts. A tempered glass protector will maintain great visibility (around 99% transparency) and touch sensitivity, so it won’t compromise your gaming experience.
• Anti-glare. When you play in environments with bright light, the screen glare can be challenging to overcome.
• Full-coverage. These protectors cover the entire front of your device to provide total protection against scratches and smudges.
• Matte finish. Nothing reduces glare like a matte finish protector. They’re also fingerprint-resistant and will keep your screen clear.
• Blue light filtering. If you’re concerned about eye strain or sleep disruption from blue light, these screen protectors will filter out harmful blue light and prevent eye strain during long gaming sessions.

Screen protectors play a critical role in protection, but they don’t last forever. Get a few extras and keep them with the rest of your accessories and gear.

7. A protective skin

Soft cases protect your console while you’re out and about, and hard cases protect your console at all times. However, skins are different because they add a personal, custom touch to your device while providing light protection against scratches.

Skins come in a variety of designs that allow you to personalize the look and feel of your console. They are usually made from non-slip silicon and are fast and easy to install and remove. Wraps are another option that cover the entire console, including the controllers. Compared to skins and cases, wraps look pretty smooth.

8. Thumb grips and stick covers

Analog sticks are prone to wear and tear, but a stick cover will extend the lifespan and make your gaming experience more comfortable. They come in a variety of textures and heights so you can fully customize your gaming experience.

Protect your console for a worry-free gaming experience

Whether you own a ROG Ally, Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, or any other console, protecting your device will keep you gameplay free from interruptions. Accidents happen, but with the right gear, your console can take a hit without causing damage.