The best Nintendo Switch case in 2024: how I keep my console protected

Whether you're after a slimline pocket or an all-in-one transport system for your console, a Nintendo Switch case is a must-have accessory. You're not using your Switch right if you're not taking it out and about with you, so making sure that screen and those buttons are protected is a priority. The best Nintendo Switch cases combine durable hard body shells with plenty of additional storage for all your games and a few lighter accessories - all without taking up too much space in your bag. With so many different options on the market right now, I'm on a mission to find the best cases that strike that balance between safety and portability. 

I've had a Switch about my person ever since launch, so I've seen quite a few cases put through their paces. Overall, the best Nintendo Switch case available right now is Orzly's model. Not only does it offer plenty of protection and space, but it also fits both the standard console and the OLED model as well. 

It's one of the most important Nintendo Switch accessories you can pick up from day one, but it's also recommended that you check your Nintendo Switch case for signs of wear and tear regularly. After all, it only takes one knock too many for those corners to give out. Many Nintendo Switch bundles often include cheaper pockets for free, but if you're after all-in-one protection it's worth seeing what's on offer. 

Curated by
Tabitha Baker, Hardware Editor at GamesRadar
Curated by
Tabitha Baker

Tabs can't resist picking up a new Nintendo Switch case whenever she sees one, and has been doing so since the console launched. That's led to a massive collection of clamshells and covers, as well as a keen eye for strength, storage, and usability.

The quick list

The best Nintendo Switch case overall

1. Orzly Nintendo Switch carry case

The Nintendo Switch case overall

Specifications

Design: Clamshell
Protection: Hard EVA shell, screen cover
Storage: Mesh pouch and 8 games
Fits: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED

Reasons to buy

+
Room for accessories
+
Affordable
+
Hard EVA shell

Reasons to avoid

-
Needs more padding

The Orzly Nintendo Swith carry case is the best in the business, offering up everything you could ask for in a smaller clamshell design with plenty of extra protection features in place as well.

Buy it if:

✅ You want to store a few accessories: With a deep mesh lined pocket in the top half, there's plenty of space for extra gadgets in here, despite the smaller form factor. 

You prioritize protection: With an EVA hard shell and microfiber inner lining, everything is protected from scratches and bumps here.

Don't buy it if:

You need to store more than 8 games: 8 games is generally enough to see you through casual rotations, but other cases can carry significantly more cards. 

Design: It may be simple, but it's a longstanding design that's proven its worth. The Orzly carry case is a standard brick of water-resistant EVA available in a range of colors. There's no fancy aesthetic work going on here, but considering the cheaper price point the Orzly is here to do a job, and it does it well. Yes, from the outside this could be any old brand of Nintendo Switch case you could find on Amazon, but the build quality and materials used here speak for themselves.

Features: Inside you'll find a soft microfibre inner lining keeping everything housed comfortably, with two elastic straps holding the console in place, a mesh pocket on top, and a screen protector flap with space for eight games. That's a little fewer than other options on the market, like the TomToc below, but it's still a good amount for day to day play. Unlike other mesh pocket-toting clamshells, the top compartment also feels deep enough to comfortably house additional Joy-Con - though the thumbsticks are still pressed against the console when zipped shut.

Verdict: The Orzly Nintendo Switch carry case packs a timeless form factor but does so with a super high build quality and plenty of protection measures. This is your go-to everyday carry case, with enough space for some extra kit and a relatively small form factor.

The Orzly Nintendo Switch case fits both the OLED and standard edition Nintendo Switch.

The best slimline Nintendo Switch case

2. TomToc Slim

The best slimline Nintendo Switch case

Specifications

Design: Slimline clamshell
Protection: Military-grade hard EVA shell, screen cover
Storage: 10 games
Fits: Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch OLED models sold separately

Reasons to buy

+
Slimline design
+
Screen cover still included
+
Excellent drop protection
+
Soft internal flap

Reasons to avoid

-
No accessory storage

The TomToc Nintendo Switch case is a must-see for anyone that doesn't want to bulk out their bag. This is a super slimline design, and while that does mean you drop a little storage, the luxury soft padding inside and hard-shell outer layer make it a winner overall. 

Buy it if:

✅ You want to keep your Switch protected: The military grade EVA material and additional protection for your controls and screen make the TomToc a particularly durable option.

✅ You value a sleek aesthetic: If you don't want to weigh your bag down with your Switch, the smaller footprint and slimline design is an excellent win.

Don't buy it if:

You need additional accessories: There's no extra pouch for cables, earbuds, or Joy-Con straps here - so if you like to keep some extra kit around I'd recommend looking elsewhere.

Design: The TomToc is constructed from super durable EVA, making for a particularly robust drop protection system. That's excellent peace of mind - it feels far more solid than Orzly's option further up the page, for example. You've also got individual cutouts for the Joy-Con's buttons and thumbsticks, as well as space underneath for the triggers. That means all your controls are protected without being precariously squashed inside. All of that and this is also a particularly thin Nintendo Switch case, housing the console itself and a few games to keep that footprint right down. 

Features: It being such a slimline design, there aren't too many additional features to talk about here. A screen cover flips down when the case is opened, to both blanket that display and house a solid roster of ten game carts. This cover is lined with a super plush material as well, keeping the screen scratch free and making for a particularly comfortable experience when inserting and removing game cards. Of course, if you want to carry extra cables and accessories with you, you'll need to look elsewhere. There are no additional pockets inside here. 

Verdict: If you just want to keep your Switch protected and keep all your games handy, the TomToc Slim is a winner. It's the thinnest option on this list and particularly well built with a range of additional protection measures in place as well.

TomToc has two Slim Nintendo Switch cases on the market right now, one for the OLED model and one for the standard edition.  

The best travel case for Nintendo Switch

3. PDP Commuter Case

The best travel case for Nintendo Switch

Specifications

Design: Large clamshell
Protection: Semi hard shell, screen cover
Storage: 14 games, Pro Controller, Joy-Con, mesh pouch, velcro pouch
Fits: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED

Reasons to buy

+
Good storage to size ratio
+
Holds additional Joy-Con well
+
Loads of game storage space

Reasons to avoid

-
Pro Controller might be too large for it

The PDP Commuter Case (very similar to, and often called, the Messenger Case) sits in a happy medium between size and storage. There's a spot for pretty much anything you want to take with you here, without bulking out your bag. 

Buy it if:

✅ You want to keep spare controllers: While the Pro Controller strap might be a little optimistic (especially when it comes to keeping your thumbsticks safe), the elastic Joy-Con holders and ample pocket space make this a must-see for multiplayer.

✅ You don't want to bulk out your bag too much: There are plenty of Nintendo Switch cases that can carry far more than this, but they generally act as bags in themselves. The Commuter Case can easily slot into a backpack still. 

Don't buy it if:

You want Pro Controller storage: The strap holding the Pro Controller in place is nice to see, but there isn't enough height in this case to give those thumbsticks room to breathe. 

You need a more durable shell: This is a semi-hard shell, so while there's certainly some rigidity to the outside it's not going to give you the same drop protection as a fully bumpered option. 

Design: The standard model comes in a light gray material with a faux leather strip across the middle. It's a sophisticated design for the price, and one fans of PDP accessories with recognize from other Nintendo Switch cases. The red accents across the rubber handle and zip strings keep things bright, though. Construction is solid for the cash, though I have noticed the rubber wearing away in the corners of the handle. Everything inside feels as solid as the day I started using the PDP Commuter Case, with durable stitching and grippy velcro. 

There is a slight spacing problem if you're keen to carry a Pro Controller around with your system. I noticed that things are particularly tight once that zip is done up, and I'm concerned about the health of those thumbsticks during long term use. The Pro Controller might be best left outside the case, then, but I still get use out of that strap for a portable charger. 

Features: This is one for travel, capable of holding everything you need for more intensive everyday play (you'll fit a Pro Controller, two extra Joy-Con, a bunch of games, and extra wires, earbuds, straps, and more in here). 

Unlike the Zadii model below, there's no foam inserts here which does mean that kit can get knocked around and I do sometimes find my controllers have switched on during a journey. This model also doesn't fit the full Nintendo Switch dock like Zadii's option. However, it is significantly lighter and smaller - perfect for throwing in a backpack and keeping all your day to day Nintendo Switch gear with you at all times. 

Verdict: The PDP Commuter Case walks a fine line between packing all the storage you'll need for daily play without taking up your whole backpack. It's an excellent option for those who like to keep extra controllers and cables on them. 

The PDP Commuter Case fits both the OLED and standard edition Nintendo Switch.

The best all-in-one Nintendo Switch case

4. Zadii Hard Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch

Best all-in-one Nintendo Switch case

Specifications

Design: Box style
Protection: Foam inserts
Storage: Console, dock, adapter, Pro Controller, Joy-Con, Joy-Con grip, accessories, 21 games
Fits: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED

Reasons to buy

+
Incredible storage
+
Foam inserts keeps everything safe
+
Fits OLED model as well

Reasons to avoid

-
Too large for everyday use

There are times when you need to take your whole setup on the road, which is where the Zadii Hard Carrying Case comes in.

Buy it if:

✅ You want to take your entire setup on the go: With protective storage slots for everything you could need, including the dock, this is a go-to for longer trips.

✅ You don't have to carry it around every day: If you only take your Switch out for these longer sessions, and don't need a carry case for everyday portability, this is an excellent buy.

Don't buy it if:

You need an everyday case: Of course, if you just need to sling your handheld in your backpack and keep it safe, this massive hold-all isn't the best option. 

Design: By virtue of its excellent storage capacity, this is a larger Nintendo Switch case, which means it's not an everyday affair. However, if you're taking your full system, dock, Pro Controller, Joy-Con grip, and game collection on the go with you, this is the kind of size you'll be needing. What's more the use of foam inserts means you're keeping everything upright - with no threat of other accessories or that top mesh pocket harming your thumbsticks or controls. 

The design itself is simple and understated, with a full-black hard shell exterior, a small but reinforced handle up top, and a black shoulder strap included.

Features: There's space for all your daily accessories here, as well as 21 slots for game storage. That's the most storage of all the Nintendo Switch cases on this page. The foam inside the case is cut specifically for Switch accessories, so the fit is nice and snug, with a protective cover / game storage flap keeping everything safe from the cable pocket up top. 

Verdict: It's a big one, but those taking every gadget they own (and all their Nintendo Switch controllers) on the go should certainly take a look. 

The Zadii Hard Carrying Case fits both the OLED and standard edition Nintendo Switch.

The best Nintendo Switch shell

5. ProCase Flip Cover

The best Nintendo Switch shell

Specifications

Design: Grip and flip cover
Protection: Bumpers, magnetic screen cover
Storage: NA
Fits: Nintendo Switch OLED

Reasons to buy

+
Comes with two tempered glass screen protectors
+
Slimline, minimal design
+
Bumper protection

Reasons to avoid

-
No storage

If you want to go even smaller than the TomToc Slim featured above, you can shrink things down to the ProCase Flip Cover. This is a case / shell hybrid, combining some of the best features of both to leave a particularly small footprint. 

Buy it if:

✅ You want as small a footprint as possible: The super slimline design of the ProCase is perfect for those who want to carry as little as possible. 

✅ You don't want to buy separate screen protectors: Whether they come with the case or not, I'd heavily recommend getting a screen protector on your device. Thankfully you're hitting both birds with one stone here.

Don't buy it if:

You need storage space: Of course, if you do rely on game cart storage and space for additional accessories, this slimline design isn't going to suit you best. 

Design: This is a particularly unique case design, a simple screen cover hooked onto a bumper shell to keep both the display and thumbsticks safe without adding too much bulk to the overall device. This isn't a cheap plastic housing, though, the back panel is soft TPU to keep your console protected from scratches while still feeling luxurious. That's not quite as durable as an EVA shell we often see on clamshell designs, though - so this isn't going to be quite as protective against drops. 

Features: Straight off the bat, it should be obvious that there are no storage options here. This is a cover and that's it - so if you're after something with game card pouches and space for cables and controllers, you'll need something more substantial. That display cover is, however, magnetic and can be attached and removed, but also folds neatly behind the system if you don't want to completely take it off. On top of that, the Pro Case Flip Cover also comes with two screen protectors for additional safety as well. 

Verdict: The ProCase Flip is perfect if you don't want to bulk out your bag with all the accessories and games you own, but it does mean storage and some durability features are dropped.

The ProCase Flip Cover fits the Nintendo Switch OLED only.

Best Nintendo Switch Lite carry cases

1. Orzly Nintendo Switch Lite carry case

The best Nintendo Switch Lite case

Specifications

Design: Clamshell
Protection: EVA hard shell, screen cover
Storage: Mesh accessory pouch, 8 games

Reasons to buy

+
Space for small accessories
+
Cheap
+
Tough EVA shell

Reasons to avoid

-
Could do with more padding

If you've just picked up a Nintendo Switch Lite deal, you'll know that the system's main selling point is its portability. That means it's a good idea to grab something that'll keep it safe while you're out and about. Fortunately, Orzly have created a Lite-specific version of their already-excellent Nintendo Switch carry case. The slightly reduced size of this option means that you won't fit any extra Joy-Con into the mesh pouch, but there's plenty of space for headphones and cleaning cloths. 

2. PowerA Play and Protect Kit

The best Nintendo Switch Lite case for tabletop play

Specifications

Design: Portfolio stand
Protection: Screen cover
Storage: NA

Reasons to buy

+
Built in stand
+
Screen cover
+
Screen protector and cleaning cloth

Reasons to avoid

-
No bumper protection
-
No storage

There aren't many Nintendo Switch Lite cases designed to improve your tabletop gaming experience. However, if you prefer using your handheld with an additional controller, the PowerA Play and protect Kit is well worth a look. The case essentially consists of a portfolio-style screen cover, folding out into a stand for your console. That's perfect for setting up shop wherever you are, though it's worth noting there's no drop protection in here. 

3. Hori Duraflexi Nintendo Switch Lite case

The best Nintendo Switch Lite shell

Specifications

Design: Shell
Protection: Bumpers, scuff
Storage: NA

Reasons to buy

+
Cheap protection
+
Clear design but wide range available
+
Flexible TPU build

Reasons to avoid

-
No screen or thumbstick protection
-
No storage

You may have put some considerable thought into the color of your Nintendo Switch Lite, so why cover it up with a boring case. The Hori Duraflexi shell is clear, allowing your console's natural beauty to shine through. While it's providing basic bumper protection (there's nothing keeping the screen or thumbsticks safe in your bag), this is a particularly cheap Nintendo Switch case and you're still getting peace of mind against drops and scuffs. 


Nintendo Switch case FAQs

What to look for in a Nintendo Switch case

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There's a massive range of Nintendo Switch cases to choose from right now, but not all clamshells are built differently and that ultra-rugged bumper protector might not be as durable you first thought. These cases are often cheap, and Amazon is littered with random brands copying each other and churning out millions of low quality protectors in the process. That's why it helps to know exactly what you're looking for in a Switch case from the get-go. Below, you'll find the top three features I make sure are present in every case I use. 

A hard shell

Sleeve-style cases are popular because they don't take up as much space in your bag and don't add extra weight to your system overall. However, I'd always recommend opting for a hard shell case. Not only are you getting better corner protection from falls and scuffs, but your screen is only marginally protected in a soft case - and that's the bit you really don't want to break. 

Thumbstick space

You're not going to find dedicated foam inserts to keep your thumbsticks protected in the majority of cases (look to TomToc if this is something you're after), but you will find clamshells claiming to pack enough space in the top mesh pocket to hold Joy-Con. That doesn't necessarily mean the case itself is a no-go (the Orzly model, for example, has marketing material with this exact use-case). However, if you're looking to carry additional bulky accessories I'd recommend opting for a larger case with dedicated slots for everything. Anything pushing down on those sticks is going to cause problems down the line. 

Screen protection 

All of the Nintendo Switch cases featured here offer some form of screen protection. This is the part of your Switch that is most likely to take damage and it's the hardest to fix. In general, I always recommend throwing a screen protector on that panel as soon as you can but your case should also protect it from any accessories it might be stored next to as well. That can be in the form of a flip pocket that covers the screen when the clamshell is closed, or a simple magnetic cover for a more slimline option. 

How big should a Nintendo Switch case be?

The first thing you should check when buying a Nintendo Switch case is whether it will fit your console. Given the OLED's additional size, you'll need a case that states that it has been specifically designed for the new device. Failing that, you'll need to check that your Nintendo Switch case will support the 9.5-inch length of the OLED model. There's only 0.1-inches in it, but it makes all the difference, and picking up a too-small case will put unnecessary pressure on your console in transit. 

The height of your Nintendo Switch case will depend on how many accessories you want to include. Carry cases can vary greatly in size, but if you're looking for a happy medium (8 games, a JoyCon or two, and a few cables), we'd recommend finding a case that offers a recessed hard shell mesh pocket. This case will be a little thicker than others, but your accessories won't be pressed hard against your console when packed up. 

Is a Nintendo Switch case worth it?

If you're going to be taking your console out with you, a Nintendo Switch case is not only well worth the often small price, but is an essential buy. The screens on these devices are particularly fragile, which means they will easily pick up scuffs and scratches if left loose in a bag. Plus, any nasty knocks and falls will put your console in danger if there isn't sufficient padding around it. 

The best Nintendo Switch carry cases usually offer a hard shell clam design, which protects the console itself with bumpers and shock absorption while keeping the screen safe with a soft material. Not only that, but you'll also find extra storage options to keep all your games and gadgets close to hand. 

Do you need a new case for a Nintendo Switch OLED?

The Nintendo Switch OLED is ever so slightly larger than the standard edition console, which means you'll need to pick up a new case if you're upgrading. That said, many models are now built to spec for both the OLED and the standard edition so it does depend on when you picked up your protector. 

Can a Nintendo Switch Lite fit in a Switch case?

A Nintendo Switch Lite will fit into either a Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch OLED designed case. I'd recommend finding one with strong elastic straps if you are shopping for a larger case, though, to stop your console jostling around in any leftover space.

We're also rounding up everything from the best Nintendo Switch memory cards to the best Nintendo Switch chargers. As for game offers, be sure to visit our page on cheap Nintendo Switch game deals. We're also showing you how to save on the Nintendo Switch Online price as well.

Tabitha Baker
Managing Editor - Hardware

Managing Editor of Hardware at GamesRadar+, I originally landed in hardware at our sister site TechRadar before moving over to GamesRadar. In between, I've written for Tom’s Guide, Wireframe, The Indie Game Website and That Video Game Blog, covering everything from the PS5 launch to the Apple Pencil. Now, i'm focused on Nintendo Switch, gaming laptops (and the keyboards and mice that come with them), and tracking everything that suggests VR is about to take over our lives.