Ultimate Checklist for New Switch 2 Owners: Accessories to Gift or Buy at Launch

Got a Switch 2 for launch day? Don't get stuck without storage, protection, or a working dock

Launch day is exciting — but it’s also the fastest way to run into the Switch 2’s biggest pain points: limited onboard storage, fragile glass screens, and questions about docking options and power. This checklist walks you through the exact accessories to buy or gift on launch day so a new Switch 2 owner can unbox, update, and play without panic.

The most urgent buy (and why): extra storage — Samsung P9 and MicroSD Express

Short version: The Switch 2 ships with 256GB of internal storage, and the platform requires MicroSD Express cards for native game installs. That makes the Samsung P9 256GB MicroSD Express the single most essential launch accessory for most owners.

Why storage is the launch-day priority

• Modern AAA titles are large — many exceed 30–50GB, and some live-service games grow quickly after launch.
• Digital-first purchases, patches, and day-one updates can fill the included 256GB fast.
• Switch 2 only accepts MicroSD Express for game installs — older microSD cards used with Switch (2017–2023 era) are not compatible for installing games on Switch 2.

Samsung P9 256GB: the practical pick

We recently reviewed the Samsung P9 MicroSD Express line and found the 256GB option hits the sweet spot for price vs. capacity at launch. It effectively doubles the console’s storage and delivers the sustained read/write performance needed for fast installs and shorter load times. In early 2026, pricing volatility has calmed vs. 2024–25, and the 256GB P9 is regularly the best value for most gamers.

How to install and format a MicroSD Express card on day one

1. With the console off, insert the MicroSD Express card into the Switch 2 slot (follow the console’s location guide).
2. Power on and navigate to Settings > System > Formatting & Data Management > Format microSD Card (if prompted).
3. Redownload any purchased titles to the new card or set the card as the default install location in the storage menu.
4. Enable cloud saves (if you have Nintendo Switch Online) before deleting anything from internal storage.

Pro tip: If you're short on time or shipping is delayed, buy a 256GB P9 now — it's the most cost-effective immediate upgrade for launch.

Essential Launch-Day Checklist: Quick Setup & Play

Print this or copy it into your phone — these are the items and steps that make the first 60–90 minutes smooth.

Immediate accessories to have on hand

• Samsung P9 256GB MicroSD Express card (or 512GB if you buy a lot of digital games)
• Tempered glass screen protector with oleophobic coating
• Hard-shell carrying case with game-card storage
• Certified USB-C PD charger (45W+ recommended) and a high-quality USB-C to USB-C cable
• Portable dock alternative or USB-C to HDMI adapter with PD passthrough
• Extra controller (Pro Controller or spare Joy-Con pair) for couch co-op

Step-by-step console setup

1. Fully charge the console before the first session (recommended but not required).
2. Install the MicroSD Express card and format it if the console prompts you.
3. Connect to Wi‑Fi and run any system updates — these can be large at launch.
4. Sign in to your Nintendo account and enable cloud saves (or transfer local saves per Nintendo’s support guide).
5. Install one game first (preferably physical if you want to conserve internal storage) and confirm it's working before downloading more.
6. Apply a screen protector and put the console in a case to avoid accidental scuffs during initial excitement.

Docking and display: official dock vs dock alternatives

2025–26 saw a surge in high-quality third-party dock solutions — from low-profile USB-C docks to battery-powered travel docks. The main question is: do you need the official dock, or will a dock alternative do?

When to use the official dock

• You want guaranteed compatibility and firmware updates from Nintendo.
• You use the dock as a permanent TV-connected station.
• You prefer simple plug-and-play with headphones, LAN, and stable power.

Dock alternatives worth considering

Dock alternatives fall into three useful categories for launch or gifting:

• USB-C to HDMI adapters — compact and inexpensive. Pick one that supports the Switch 2’s max output and includes PD passthrough so the console charges while in TV mode.
• Powered USB-C hubs — offer Ethernet, multiple USB ports, and PD passthrough. A 65W PD hub is a sweet spot for charging and powering accessories.
• Portable battery docks — best for travel and hotel setups. Ensure the battery supports high-output USB-C PD and the dock advertises compatibility with handheld consoles.

Compatibility and safety tips

• Always use a PD charger that delivers the power profile recommended by Nintendo (check the console manual or Nintendo support for exact wattage).
• Avoid cheap unbranded docks without PD or proper shielding — they can cause display flicker or inconsistent charging.
• For online play, an Ethernet adapter on a powered hub will massively reduce latency compared with Wi‑Fi on congested home networks.

Cases, screen protectors, and carrying solutions

Fragility is a top concern for handheld consoles. In 2026, protective gear has evolved with ultra-thin tempered glass alternatives, magnetic snap-on shell cases, and travel-ready hard-shell cases that hold 8–12 game cards and a full-size Pro Controller dock.

What to pick and why

• Tempered glass screen protector: protects the OLED/LCD surface, keeps touch smooth, and usually installs bubble-free with a guide. Look for an oleophobic coating and 9H hardness.
• Thin protective case: keeps the console safe in daily carry without adding much bulk. Good for at-home use.
• Travel hard-shell case: necessary if you plan to bring the Switch 2 on flights or to tournaments. Prioritize shock absorption and dedicated game-card pockets.

Unboxing & installation tips

1. Install the tempered glass before putting the console in a case so you can smooth out dust or bubbles.
2. Keep the original box and receipt for 30 days — many retailers allow easy returns if an accessory causes fit issues.
3. Test the screen protector for touch sensitivity with a few games and adjust if necessary.

Small accessories perfect for gifts (stocking-stuffers to premium)

Here are curated ideas across budgets that every new Switch 2 owner will use:

Under $30 — useful and affordable

• Thumbstick grips and replacement caps
• MicroSD card case for carrying extra cards
• Cable organizers and braided USB-C cables
• Tempered glass screen protector (single-pack)
• eShop gift card for instant games on launch day

$30–$80 — best value gifts

• Hard-shell travel case with room for a Pro Controller
• Certified USB-C PD charger and 100W cable combo
• Quality wireless headset with low-latency mode
• Portable USB-C dock or powered hub with Ethernet

$80+ — premium launch gifts

• Pro Controller (wired/wireless) or extra Joy-Con set
• 512GB or 1TB MicroSD Express card for collectors
• Premium carrying case with integrated dock accessory
• Charge-and-play controller dock

Compatibility guide: what to reuse, what to replace

Not every old Switch accessory will work with Switch 2. Here’s a quick compatibility map to avoid last-minute returns.

Likely compatible

• Bluetooth/wireless headsets that pair via standard profiles (check for low-latency support)
• Official Pro Controllers (most third-party Pro Controllers also work, but check firmware)
• Cable organizers, cases tailored for similar dimensions (verify fit)

Likely incompatible or needs caution

• Older microSD cards — Switch 2 requires MicroSD Express for game installs. Standard microSD cards from older Switches can be used to store movies or screenshots on some devices, but not for the Switch 2’s native game installs.
• Cheap third-party docks or unpowered USB-C hubs — may not support the console’s power draw or display mode reliably.

Real-world case: launch-day setup timeline (example)

We set up a test Switch 2 on launch day with a Samsung P9 256GB, a tempered glass protector, and a powered USB-C hub. Timeline:

1. Unbox & charge: 15–20 minutes to reach a safe battery level.
2. Insert Samsung P9 and format: 5 minutes.
3. System update and firmware patch download: 10–30 minutes (depends on connection).
4. Install first game and test TV mode via USB-C HDMI adapter with PD passthrough: 10 minutes.
5. Apply screen protector and place in case: 10 minutes.

Result: Ready-to-play in ~45–75 minutes depending on update sizes and downloads. The Samsung P9 prevented any storage-related download stalls during the test.

2026 trends and future-proofing your picks

Late 2025 through early 2026 has brought a few clear trends you should consider when building a launch kit:

• MicroSD Express is now mainstream — expect increasing availability and price drops across 256GB–1TB tiers through 2026.
• USB-C PD hubs replace single-function docks — multiport hubs with Ethernet, extra USB, and PD passthrough are standard for gamers who switch between portable and TV modes.
• Compact battery docks grow in quality — higher-output battery solutions mean travel docking is now feasible for multi-hour sessions.
• Accessory integration — cases and docks that combine into a single travel kit are more common, which simplifies gifting and reduces clutter.

Buying tips for the holidays and launch-day shortages

• Buy cores (storage, screen protector, case) first — accessories like thumb grips can wait if shipping is delayed.
• Use eShop gift cards or local pickup options when shipping windows look risky.
• Look for certified or reviewed third-party docks and avoid bargain basements lacking clear PD or alt-mode specs.
• Compare return and warranty policies — some microSD Express cards come with limited warranties that matter if you plan on long-term game storage.

Final recommendations — a practical gift bundle for a new Switch 2 owner

If you want a single gift box that nails the essentials, combine these:

• Samsung P9 256GB MicroSD Express card
• Hard-shell travel case with game storage
• Tempered glass screen protector (single pack)
• Certified 65W USB-C PD charger and USB-C cable
• eShop gift card or a recent hit game (physical if you want to save storage)

This covers the biggest pain points — storage, protection, power, and instant content — and fits a range of budgets.

Actionable takeaways

• Buy a MicroSD Express card day one — the Samsung P9 256GB is the best immediate value for most switchers in 2026.
• Protect the screen and case up front — drop-proofing and a screen protector reduce returns and buyer’s regret.
• Choose a powered USB-C hub or official dock if you plan to play on TV; for travel, pick a portable battery dock with PD passthrough.
• Gift smart: pair storage with a game card or eShop credit for instant gratification.

Ready to build a launch bundle?

We curated Switch 2 launch bundles that include the Samsung P9, cases, and dock alternatives tested for compatibility. If you want a fast, worry-free setup for yourself or a gift, check our launch-ready bundles — or sign up for our downloadable one-page setup checklist to hand to the new owner on launch day.

Get set. Plug in. Play. Make launch day about gaming, not troubleshooting.

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