I canceled my Nintendo Switch 2 case pre-order for this third-party alternative — and I love it (but with one big catch)
I've been rocking the official Nintendo Switch carry case since the console launched in 2017, and I had planned to do the same with the Nintendo Switch 2. I even had my case pre-ordered ahead of the console's launch last week.
That was until the folks over at dbrand offered me the chance to try out their new (and somewhat infamous) Killswitch alternative. And after a few days of use with my shiny new Switch 2, consider me a convert. This case is pretty slick.
You can pick up a dbrand Killswitch case for $59, which nets you the Essential package. For $79, you get the Travel bundle, which includes the standard case alongside a travel cover and a pair of Joy-Con 2 stick grips. Finally, there's the uber premium Killswitch Ultra set, which packs all of the above plus a set of Prisom 2.0 screen protectors, which are equally excellent.
Oh, and whichever option you pick also includes a Dock Adapter, but we'll get to that.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Killswitch from dbrand both protects your console and elevates your gaming experience by making the hybrid even more comfortable to hold in handheld mode. It comes in three bundles starting from $59, but those looking to take their Switch 2 on the road will want to consider the Travel bundle for $79.
Naturally, the core of the Killswitch is the case itself, which is made from 'impact-resistant and structurally rigid thermoplastics.' the accessory manufacturer notes it's 'It's engineered to absorb shock, diffuse force, and dramatically improve your odds of walking away from a drop with both your console and dignity intact.' But this is one claim that I haven't tested.
In my Nintendo Switch 2 review, I noted that the console in handheld mode lacks the ergonomic grips found on rivals like Steam Deck OLED, which can make it uncomfortable to hold for extended periods. Fortunately, the Killswitch resolves this issue by adding grips to each of the Joy-Con 2 controllers, making the Switch 2 feel seriously amazing when played portably.
Even better, unlike some third-party cases, the Joy-Con 2s remain fully detachable, as the Killswitch comes in three separate parts (one for each Joy-Con 2, one for the main console unit). So, you don't need to remove the case if you want to switch to tabletop play mode and make use of the built-in stand.
If you want the Killswitch to be your all-situations case, then you're going to need to invest in at least the Travel bundle, because the protective plastic cover is a must-have to protect the console's stunning 7.9-inch display.
I don't love the way it attaches via a hanging bungee cord, but on the flipside, this does make it extremely secure and easy to slot into place in just seconds.
There's really only one thing about the Killswitch that prevents me from recommending it without any caveats, and that is the need for a dock adapter.
Because the case adds an extra layer of bulk to the console — though dbrand notes it's a mere 2.5mm total — it won't fit into the Nintendo Switch 2 dock. That's why each Killswitch ships with a Dock Adapter, which allows you to connect your console to the TV without having to remove the case each time.
dbrand has gone the extra mile, ensuring the dock adapter doesn't rob the console of any functionality, you still get 4K 60 fps gaming on your TV (in supported games), and the cooling features of the official Switch 2 dock are also maintained, but still it's an extra requirement that might put some Switch 2 owners off a purchase.
Personally, I do generally prefer using the manufacturer-supplied dock as standard. On the bright side, the dock adapter allows you to display your Switch 2 more prominently in your entertainment center, which may appeal to some prospective purchasers of the Killswitch set-up.
Either way, it's certainly not a deal breaker, and after just under a week of use, I've found the Killswitch a seriously great option. Particularly because I plan to use my Nintendo Switch 2 mostly in handheld mode (I typically reserve my big-screen gaming for my trusty PS5 Pro).
There are cheaper options on the market, with Switch 2 cases on Amazon starting from just $9, but if you're looking for a mixture of functionality and well-considered design, dbrand's Killswitch is an option that you really should consider. So long as you don't mind the adapter.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Tom's Guide
4 hours ago
- Tom's Guide
I've played the Switch 2 for over a week and it's missing these key games
I couldn't wait to get my hands on the Nintendo Switch 2. From snappier Joy-Cons to improved performance, there was a lot to get hyped for. But now, over a week after its official release, I'm at odds. While I think the improvements are promising, especially the larger and more vibrant screen, it's the software that's taken the most enormous misstep. It's owed largely to the fact that the Switch 2 launched with just one main first-party game in Mario Kart World. The rest are third-party titles that launched years prior, including Cyberpunk 2077, Split Fiction, Street Fighter 6, and Hogwarts Legacy. Don't get me wrong, these are fantastic games — Cyberpunk being one of my all-time favorites — I wish the Switch 2 had a bit more going for it. Especially given its exorbitant price tag. Surprisingly, Nintendo didn't have more Mario games up its sleeve for the new hardware. You'd think Nintendo would want to come out with a bang, highlighting major features using its very bread and butter with something like a Mario Odyssey 2 or even a Super Smash Bros sequel. Instead, we got Mario Kart World, a rather lackluster experience in terms of overall content. You can have a blast so long as you have a good crew to play with, but beyond that, it's a pretty limiting title and really comes down to your enjoyment of racing games to begin with. You could point out some of the incredible visual and performance enhancements available for more well-known titles, like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. But it's a significant drag that older Nintendo games are being put on a pedestal. I know some games are releasing in the coming months that could put these woes to bed, like Donkey Kong Bananza and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. Still, Nintendo should have launched with more first-party experiences to make up for the already limited lineup, like a revamped Mario Party, Luigi's Mansion, or Mario Golf. I can't lie, FromSoftware is one of my favorite video game developers. That's why I was let down by the fact that the Switch 2 edition of Elden Ring didn't launch along with the system, and there's no real understanding of when it might release. The Nintendo website says it's supposed to release this year, but it's still unclear when that might be. That's a massive release for Nintendo and works to get some extra fans interested in FromSoft games ahead of the launch of Duskbloods on the Switch 2 next year. That's why I wish more FromSoft games were launching on the system. Instead of just Elden Ring, why not bring over some of the additional Dark Souls series of games to the platform? The original Switch already has access to Dark Souls Remastered, and it's not like Dark Souls 2 or 3 would be too intensive for the refreshed hardware. A full Dark Souls trilogy available on the Switch 2 from the outset would have been huge for fans of the developer. You could even throw in Sekiro, which is one of its most beloved experiences and even won Game of the Year in 2019. That would make for a killer software suite and probably wouldn't take too much effort to put together. As of writing, FromSoftware fans just have Dark Souls Remastered to play around in on the Switch 2 as they wait for Elden Ring and Duskbloods, which is a tad unfortunate, seeing as it's pretty much dead in terms of co-op and PvP invasions. Although it is a family console, the Switch 2 is missing out on more horror titles. If you're a fan of killer thrillers and terrifying horror experiences, you're largely stuck with the games that already existed on the original Switch. I'm a huge horror fan, and it's a bit of a drag to see such a minimal offering in this category. Just take a peek at the official Nintendo online eShop for its Switch 2 titles, and you'll see that horror isn't even an option in its genre selection. Again, I understand this is more of a family console, and horror probably isn't the most-searched genre on Switch, but the variety would be a welcome change for the platform. Nintendo could have tapped some heavy hitters for a well-rounded third-party horror selection, including Dead Space remake, Metro Exodus, Still Wakes the Deep, and Slitterhead, to name a few. Maybe it's the fact that horror is just too niche for the Switch to begin with, but I'd like to see a wider offering on the more adept hardware. Especially given that beloved horror franchises in Silent Hill and Resident Evil are basking in the limelight with massive hits on the horizon. If you are one of the few looking for some horror games on the Switch 2, I recommend playing Observer, Fatum Betula, Signalis, and World of Horror. They don't put the new hardware to the test, but they are nail-biting as ever.
Engadget
19 hours ago
- Engadget
How to buy the Nintendo Switch 2: Latest stock updates at Target, Best Buy, Walmart and more
The Nintendo Switch 2 has been available in the US for more than two weeks — but good luck finding one. While millions of people have been able to snag the $450 console since it officially went up for sale on June 5, online inventory dried up fairly quickly at most stores soon after launch and remains difficult to find today. Target and Best Buy restocked shortly after launch, but those didn't last long, and the latter required in-store pickup. You may also be able to grab a bundle at Costco if you're a member there. Otherwise, it's been slim pickings. As of today, we're not seeing any availability — though you may have different luck in your locality when checking inventory, online or in person. To that latter point, people had a bit more luck on launch week by venturing to a physical retail store. We can't guarantee you'll still be able to snag a Switch 2 the old-fashioned way, but it's worth checking if a local Target, Best Buy, Walmart or GameStop — the four official retailers Nintendo lists on its store page — still has consoles in stock. For now, you can skip Amazon, though: For whatever reason, the biggest online retailer doesn't even have a product page for the Switch 2 (but it does seem to be selling games and accessories). All that said, if you're still on the hunt, we've rounded up all of the latest information we could find on how to buy the Nintendo Switch 2 and where you can pick one up. Walmart began online purchases at midnight ET on June 5. Currently, both the Mario Kart World bundle and the standalone console are "available" via third-party retailers, but listed for much higher than their standard $500 and $450 price tags — with limited quantities available. We wouldn't recommend buying these; instead, wait for the console to be listed at its regular MSRP. Naturally, the world's largest retailer is also selling the console at its brick-and-mortar locations, though the company has noted that quantities are limited and inventory will vary by location. Best Buy started selling the Switch 2 at its retail locations on June 5. It previously said it wouldn't sell the handheld at its online store during launch week, but it made additional consoles available on June 11 around 12PM ET. That restock lasted for the better part of an hour and required in-store pickup, but the device is now sold out again. Target had the Switch 2 in stores on June 5 and restocked its online inventory for at least a couple of hours starting around 3:30AM ET on June 6. It then had another restock on June 12 around 2:30PM ET, but that appears to have died out in less than an hour. It still looks to be fully sold out as we write this, but you should see if there's any stock at the stores closest to you just to be safe. GameStop has advertised in-store availability, though exactly how much stock your local store may have will vary by location. Online, the device has been unavailable for the past week, with the listings for the base console and Mario Kart bundle now pointing to a "Find a Store" page. We saw a $625 bundle that includes Mario Kart World , a microSD Express card and a few other accessories pop up a bit more frequently than the standard SKUs, but it's no longer listed (and it was kind of a raw deal anyway). You may still have some luck at certain membership-based retailers. A Mario Kart World bundle at Costco that includes a 12-month Switch Online subscription has gone in and out of stock since launch day. Sam's Club has had a bundle without the Switch Online sub as well, though it's out of stock now. We also saw the console at BJ's early on June 5, but it's no longer live there. Verizon briefly had the Switch 2 available on launch day, but that's dried up, and only those with Verizon service were able to order. Amazon hasn't had any form of Switch 2 listing on its website, nor has it listed Mario Kart World . The company didn't take pre-orders for the Switch 2 either, so it's unclear if and when it will sell the device. You can, however, find some Switch 2 games. Newegg has listed the Switch 2 on its site for several weeks, but it's given no indication as to when it'll begin sales. It previous showed a couple listings from a third-party seller, but at massively inflated prices. With all of these stores, we've seen the Mario Kart World bundle available in greater quantities online than the base console, which costs $50 less. But given that Mario Kart is the Switch 2's biggest launch game and retails for $80 on its own, that may not be the worst thing. Nintendo, meanwhile, is only offering the Switch 2 via an invite system. This requires you to have been a Switch Online member for at least 12 months and logged at least 50 hours of Switch 1 playtime as of April 2. It can't hurt to sign up if you meet the criteria, but don't expect it to bear fruit immediately — it's taken weeks for many people who registered in April to receive their invite. You can find a list of every Switch 2 retail listing we could find below. Just be aware that this is meant to be a reference, not a rundown of everywhere the device is available right this second. Where to buy Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle: Where to buy Switch 2: Nintendo is selling a number of Switch 2 accessories alongside the console, from its (pricey) Pro Controller to cases to cameras for the new GameChat feature. Most of these became available on June 5. The same goes for games like Mario Kart World and the Switch 2 version of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom . Another big Switch 2 release, Donkey Kong Bananza , won't be available until mid-July but is still up for pre-order now. As of this publication, just about all Switch 2 games are broadly available. Stock for the accessories remains a little spottier, but most devices are still available at multiple retailers. Nintendo's official Switch 2 carrying cases have been the main exceptions, so you may need to look to third-party alternatives if you want some protection for your console right away. Mario Kart World ($80) Nintendo Walmart GameStop Best Buy Target Donkey Kong Bananza ($70) Nintendo Amazon Walmart GameStop Best Buy Target Costco (membership required) Additional Switch 2 games Nintendo Amazon Walmart GameStop Best Buy Target Samsung microSD Express Card (256GB) for Nintendo Switch 2 ($60) Nintendo Walmart GameStop Best Buy Target Amazon Joy-Con 2 bundle ($95) Nintendo Walmart GameStop Best Buy Target Switch 2 Pro Controller ($85) Switch 2 Camera ($55) Nintendo Walmart GameStop Best Buy Target Hori Nintendo Switch 2 Piranha Plant Camera ($60) Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip ($40) Nintendo Walmart GameStop Best Buy Target Joy-Con 2 Wheels (set of 2) ($25) Nintendo Walmart GameStop Best Buy Target Switch 2 All-in-One Carrying Case ($85) Nintendo Walmart GameStop Best Buy Target Switch 2 Carrying Case and Screen Protector ($40) Nintendo (invite required) Walmart GameStop Best Buy Target Nintendo Switch 2 Dock Set ($120) Nintendo GameCube Controller for Switch 2 ($65) Nintendo (Switch Online required)
Tom's Guide
a day ago
- Tom's Guide
I've played 8 Nintendo Switch 2 launch games — here's the best one you (probably) skipped but really should buy now
The Nintendo Switch 2 has been in the wild for more than two weeks, and after sampling more than half a dozen of the system's launch games, I'm having a blast with the new hybrid console (and said as much in my very positive Nintendo Switch 2 review). A VGC report this week suggests that third-party Switch 2 game sales are pretty slow off the bat, and while I'm a little disappointed at this news, I'm not entirely surprised. It's little wonder that Nintendo published software like Mario Kart World and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition are dominating the play time of early adopters. Cyberpunk 2077 is reportedly the exception that is bucking the trend and seeing strong sales. However, much as I love Cyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2 (I named it one of the launch games you need to play first), there's another third-party title that is quickly becoming one of my go-to Switch 2 games at this very early stage of the console's lifecycle: Hitman World of Assassination. I've seen it knock around the bottom of the best-selling charts on the Nintendo eShop, but otherwise, it's not a launch title that many Switch 2 players appear to be talking about. This could be because the majority of Switch 2 owners have already played it on other systems where it's been available for several years, but I think the Signature Edition on Switch 2 makes a compelling case for double-dipping. Here's why you shouldn't skip Hitman WoA on Nintendo Switch 2 (assuming you have access to a solid Wi-Fi connection). Hitman World of Assassination Signature Edition brings the complete IO Interactive trilogy to Nintendo Switch 2. In this action-stealth game, you play the world's most lethal killer, Agent 47, as they travel the globe eliminating high-value targets in a multitude of creative ways. Each mission is highly replayable, and this Signature Edition also comes with a wealth of extra content. The Hitman World of Assassination trilogy (which packages the three Hitman games developed by IO Interactive between 2016 and 2021) is a known quantity at this point, so I won't harp on about the basics of what the game actually is. There are plenty of reviews covering all three games in the series already, many of which successfully highlight why they represent not only a new high watermark for the long-running franchise, but also why Hitman in this current guise might just be the most polished stealth game ever. Instead, let's specifically talk about the Nintendo Switch 2 port, officially known as the Signature Edition. The first thing to note is you're getting a ridiculous amount of content here. For starters, you get the full campaign of 2016's Hitman, 2018's Hitman 2 and 2021's Hitman 3, alongside the two extra chapters released as DLC for Hitman 2. That's enough to last you dozens of hours, as it's 21 total locations (Hitman's name for individual open levels), and each is purposefully designed to be replayed several times over. Plus, they're all stitched together into a single seamless campaign that can be enjoyed from start to finish with no hitches. Alongside that, you get plenty of additional game modes like user-created Contracts, a rougelike offering called Freelancer and a fiendishly challenging Arcade mode. That's not all; you can also dive into side campaigns like Seven Deadly Sins and Patient Zero. There's also The Sarajevo Six, though this latter one does unfortunately require an additional purchase. These separate modes remix content from the base games in surprisingly inventive ways, changing levels you might have played dozens of times already in often substantial ways. There's also limited-time Elusive Targets, which right now include a tie-in event with James Bond, which features Mads Mikkelsen reprising his role as Le Chiffre from 2006's 'Casino Royale.' Plus, I haven't even touched on the Sniper Assassin mode, which is a totally different spin on Hitman. Here you find Agent 47 perched in a watch tower, and eliminating targets from afar using, you've guessed it, a powerful sniper rifle. None of this content is exclusive to the Signature Edition; it can also be found in Hitman World of Assassination on PlayStation, Xbox and PC, but I've found the Switch 2 platform ideally suited for the Hitman experience because of its portability. Hitman is a great game for shorter sessions. Because each level is highly replayable and designed to be mastered through repeat play, once you've got some knowledge of a location, you can hop in and complete a few challenges within just a matter of minutes. It's the perfect game for playing in shorter bursts, and that approach suits the Switch 2 hardware. The downside is that on a technical level, Hitman World of Assassination on Nintendo Switch 2 isn't up to the same graphical or performance standards as you'll get playing on beefier hardware like the PS5 Pro or a powerful gaming PC. But that's really to be expected with a Switch 2 port. Ultimately, this isn't a highly compromised port. The visual downgrades are well within my tolerance levels, and I suspect most players will feel the same. The unlocked frame rate does dip a little more than I'd like, but it's far from a major issue, and when played in handheld mode, Hitman: WoA showcases the increased graphical power of the Switch 2 pretty well. Like many Switch players, I'm okay making some visual sacrifices in the name of portability. Unfortunately, there is one major issue with Hitman World of Assassination on Switch 2, and it's severe enough that it could serve as a dealbreaker for a significant number of prospective players. The game is ostensibly an always-online title. Now, it's not technically always online, because you're not fully locked out of the game without an internet connection. However, the 'offline mode' places several major restrictions and prevents you from accessing certain modes, making it a highly undesirable way to play. When playing offline, you can't make proper progress as none of your unlocks carry across, and you don't even get a mission score upon completing a level (which is a fundamental part of the Hitman WoA experience). You also can't work through the location Challenges, which is another key pillar of the experience. You're limited to playing each campaign level in its most basic form. That's still pretty fun, but you're basically getting half the game. Making matters worse is that you can't even hop between offline and online, and just tolerate the restrictions. You cannot access online save data when offline, and any progress made won't transfer across. Offline mode is a completely separated and seriously less-than-ideal way to play. Basically, if you don't have a reliable connection, do not buy Hitman on Nintendo Switch 2. Considering that being able to play Hitman on the go is the biggest selling point of the Switch 2 edition, it is a pretty major flaw. And it means that as much as I enjoy Hitman World of Assassination on Nintendo's new platform, it won't be a game I turn to on flights or trains. However, I'm still glad the phenomenal sandbox stealth experience has been ported over to Nintendo Switch 2. And if IO Interactive could tweak the way offline play works, then it would be a game I recommend without any caveats. Sadly, that looks unlikely, so my recommendation comes with an asterisk.
