Game Accessories: Controllers, Protection and Power for Consoles, Plus RC Hobby and Music Accessories
Game consoles are used for hours at a time, carried in bags, handed to children and connected to TVs, monitors and headsets. Accessories make that use more comfortable, protect expensive hardware and solve practical problems such as charging several controllers or playing a handheld console on a train. This category covers accessories for Nintendo, PlayStation, Xbox and Steam Deck, pocket retro consoles, as well as related hobby products: parts for radio-controlled models, batteries and chargers for toys, and accessories for musical instruments. The guide below explains what to look for in each group.
Compatibility comes first
Console accessories are tightly linked to specific hardware. Nintendo Switch, Switch OLED and Switch Lite have different screen sizes and body shapes. PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 controllers use different charging ports, and PS5 slim and standard consoles differ in size. Xbox One and Xbox Series controllers look similar but have small differences in connectivity. Steam Deck LCD and OLED models share a body shape but differ in screen and some details. Check the model before buying cases, screen protectors, chargers and stands.
Controllers and gamepads
A second or replacement controller is often the first accessory people buy. Official controllers offer the best compatibility and features such as adaptive triggers on the DualSense or HD rumble on Joy-Con. Third-party controllers cost less and may add features such as back buttons, turbo functions or programmable profiles, but not all support every console feature, such as motion controls, rumble or wake-up from sleep.
Points to check
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless dongle or USB cable. Wired controllers have the lowest latency.
- Platform support: some controllers work with several platforms, including PC and phones.
- Battery: built-in rechargeable batteries or replaceable AA cells.
- Hall effect sticks: magnetic joysticks are designed to resist stick drift, a common problem with standard analogue sticks.
Protection for handheld consoles
Handheld consoles such as Nintendo Switch, Switch Lite, Steam Deck and pocket retro consoles travel in bags and are often used by children, so screens and bodies need protection.
- Tempered glass screen protectors prevent scratches; the Switch's original screen is plastic and scratches easily.
- Grip cases add comfort for long sessions and protect corners from drops.
- Hard carry cases protect the console, games and chargers in transport; check that the case fits the console with its grip or case attached.
- Silicone covers and skins protect against scratches and add grip.
Charging and power
Charging docks for controllers keep them ready and organised, which is especially useful for households with several players. Power banks and car chargers keep handheld consoles running during travel. The Switch and Steam Deck charge via USB-C, but they need chargers that support USB Power Delivery at the right power level to charge while playing; low-power phone chargers may charge only slowly or not at all during play.
Audio and connectivity
Gaming headsets with microphones are used for online play and voice chat. Check the connection: PlayStation and Xbox controllers have a 3.5 mm headphone jack, Bluetooth audio is supported on Switch, and USB or wireless dongles are used on many headsets. Adapters and cables connect consoles to TVs and monitors, extend controller cables and allow using controllers across platforms.
Stands, holders and organisation
Stands and holders keep consoles, controllers and headsets tidy. Vertical stands save space, cooling stands add fans for consoles that run hot, and wall mounts keep controllers off the floor. Storage bags and cases protect game cards and discs.
RC models and DIY parts
Radio-controlled cars, boats, drones and planes are popular hobbies that combine gaming with mechanics and electronics. Spare propellers, motors, electronic speed controllers, transmitters, receivers and cables keep models running after crashes and allow upgrades. Matching the motor size, voltage and connector type is essential for compatibility. Batteries and chargers for RC models and toys come in different chemistries and connectors, and must match the model's voltage and plug.
Musical instrument accessories
Musical instruments share much with gaming as a hobby: practice, upgrades and accessories that make playing easier. Strings, picks, capos and straps for guitars; tuners for accurate pitch; reeds and cleaning kits for wind instruments; sticks and practice pads for drums; sustain pedals and covers for keyboards; and cables and storage bags for all instruments help beginners and experienced musicians. Check the instrument type and size before buying strings, cases and bags.
Comfort, health and long sessions
Long gaming sessions put strain on hands, wrists, neck and eyes. Grips and thumb caps reduce hand fatigue on small controllers, a stand that raises a handheld console or phone improves posture, and a headset with comfortable padding matters more than extra features if you play for hours. Take regular breaks, keep the screen at a comfortable distance and set volume limits on headsets used by children. For handheld consoles, a case with ergonomic grips is often the single biggest comfort improvement.
Looking after consoles and controllers
Dust is the main enemy of consoles: it clogs vents and fans, raising temperatures and noise. Keep consoles in an open, ventilated space rather than a closed cabinet, clean vents gently with a soft brush and avoid placing them on carpets. Wipe controllers with a slightly damp cloth, as sweat and skin oils wear the rubber on sticks and buttons. If sticks start to drift, cleaning sometimes helps, but worn sensors need replacement parts or a new controller.
Practical tips
- Check the exact console model before buying cases, protectors and docks.
- Choose controllers with Hall effect sticks if stick drift has been a problem.
- Use a charger that supports USB Power Delivery for Switch and Steam Deck.
- Fit a screen protector to handheld consoles from the first day.
- Keep game cards in a dedicated case to avoid losing them.
- For RC models, match battery voltage, capacity and connector to the model.
Frequently asked questions
Do third-party controllers support all console features?
Not always. Some lack motion controls, rumble, NFC or the ability to wake the console. Check the product description for supported features.
Why does my Switch not charge while playing?
The charger may not deliver enough power. Use a USB-C Power Delivery charger with sufficient output and a cable that supports it.
What is stick drift?
Stick drift happens when a joystick registers movement without being touched, usually due to wear in the sensor. Replacement sticks or controllers with Hall effect sticks help solve it.
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