The Essential Guide to Keeping Your Nintendo Switch Charged On-the-Go

For gamers, few things are more frustrating than having your Nintendo Switch console run out of battery in the middle of an intense gaming session. Since the Switch’s portable mode is one of its biggest selling points, having reliable charging solutions is an absolute must for every Switch owner.

While the Nintendo Switch does come packaged with an official AC adapter in the box, savvy players know it’s wise to have backup charging options on hand. From spare AC adapters to portable power banks and car chargers, Switch fans have a variety of third-party charging accessories to choose from.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about charging your Nintendo Switch – whether you’re at home, commuting, or exploring the great outdoors. Don’t let a drained battery cut your mobile gaming adventures short!

The Official Nintendo Switch Charger

Let’s start with the AC adapter that comes standard with every Nintendo Switch purchase – the HAC-002 model. This compact charger serves as the primary way most players “refuel” their Switch’s rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

Specifications:

• Input: 100-240V

• Output: 5V/1.5A

• Cable length: Approximately 5 feet 

• USB Type-C connector

• Supports charging in portable or docked TV mode

At an output of 5 volts and 1.5 amps, the official Nintendo charger meets the minimum specifications to safely charge a Switch console, though not at maximum speed. In our testing, it took around 3 hours to fully charge a completely depleted Switch battery using this first-party charger.

One nice perk is that the USB-C cable is detachable, allowing you to swap it out for a longer third-party cable or replace it if damaged over time. While not a compact wall charger, the Switch AC adapter is compact enough to conveniently slip into a carrying case or backpack.

At an MSRP of $29.99, the first-party Nintendo Switch charger is an investment that provides the utmost confidence in optimal and safe charging for your console. However, higher amperage third-party chargers can provide faster charging times.

Third-Party USB-C Switch Chargers

Since the Nintendo Switch features a USB-C charging port, the console opens up a whole new world of affordable third-party charging accessories to explore. Any USB charger with USB-C Power Delivery should work perfectly for charging the Switch in portable mode as long as it meets the right specifications.

While the Nintendo AC adapter is limited to 5V/1.5A, compatible third-party chargers can max out the Switch’s supported charging specs:

• Maximum Input Voltage: 5V

• Maximum Input Current: 3A

Essentially, this means USB chargers that output between 5V/1.5A to 5V/3A should charge a Switch at full speed without the risk of overcharging or heat issues. There are dozens of USB-C chargers from brands like Anker, RAVPower, Aukey, and more that fit the bill.

In my testing, I’ve had excellent results using affordable third-party chargers like the RavPower 30W Dual Port PD Charger or Anker PowerPort PD 1 chargers. These compact wall plugs charge a fully depleted Switch in around 2 to 2.5 hours – a decent improvement over the 3-hour charge time of the original Nintendo adapter.

One benefit of third-party chargers is more output options from dual USB ports, often with a second USB-A port for charging another device simultaneously while the USB-C port prioritizes Switch charging.  

The cost savings are significant too. While Nintendo’s first-party charger hovers around $30, reliable third-party 30W PD USB-C chargers can be found in the $15-20 range. Most reputable brands also offer protective measures like temperature and voltage control to prevent issues like overheating or power surges.

For Switch owners looking to save a few bucks while scoring faster charging times, third-party USB-C PD wall chargers are an excellent option to supplement your original Nintendo adapter.

Switch Car Chargers

Of course, no mobile gaming charging strategy would be complete without solutions for keeping your Switch battery topped up during long commutes or road trips. While some may resort to simply using a USB-C car charger, there are also purpose-built Switch car chargers from both Nintendo and third parties.

The compact HORI Official Nintendo Switch Portable USB Car Charger is a licensed and certified accessory from Nintendo. Featuring a USB-A port and detachable USB-C cable, it delivers 5V/1.5A of charging output optimized for Switch consoles. It’s also available in two different cable lengths – 4.9 ft or 6.5 ft.

At around $15, HORI’s official Switch car charger provides reliable and safe charging for your console while driving. However, it won’t provide the fastest charging times since it maxes out at 1.5A.

Higher amperage options can be found in quality third-party brands. Anker’s popular PowerDrive Speed+ Duo is an excellent dual-port car charger featuring a USB-C port capable of 5V/3A high-speed charging perfect for Switch. A similar option is the TeckNet USB-C Car Charger which offers 5V/3A output at an affordable price point.

Many third-party chargers also include additional safety protections like voltage and temperature protection to prevent overcharging or overheating in your vehicle. While they may lack the official “Nintendo Certified” status, chargers from trusted brands provide excellent performance for portable Switch charging.

The Portable Power Bank Solution

When reliable charging sources like wall outlets or car chargers aren’t available, portable power banks have become a must-have Switch accessory. These compact battery packs allow you to recharge your Switch on the go, whether commuting or venturing outdoors.

However, not just any old power bank will work seamlessly with your Nintendo Switch. For optimal results, look for the following features:

• At least one USB-C port (Preferably with Power Delivery support)

• USB output of 5V/1.5A to 5V/3A

• High enough battery capacity (mAh rating) for your needs

As far as capacity requirements, a 10,000mAh power bank could provide enough of a charge to extend the Switch’s battery by around 6 hours depending on the model. For extended trips away from power sources, capacities of 20,000mAh or higher are recommended for all-day portable gaming. Many of the larger power banks like the 26,800mAh Anker PowerCore+ have enough juice to recharge a Switch from 0% to 100% multiple times on a single charge.

It’s important to note that while power banks can charge the Switch in portable mode at expected speeds, they cannot provide enough wattage to charge the Switch console in its separate TV docking mode. Switch docks need a consistent 15V/2.6A power source that most power banks don’t support.

With that in mind, here are some top USB-C power bank recommendations for Nintendo Switch:

• Anker PowerCore 20100 Portable Charger

• Aukey 26800mAh USB-C Power Bank

• ZMI PowerPack 20000mAh USB-C Portable Charger

• RavPower 26800 PD Power Bank

• Anker PowerCore+ 26800 Portable Charger

These versatile power banks give Nintendo Switch owners the ultimate power freedom to game on the go even when traditional charging sources aren’t available. Toss a portable charger into your Switch carrying case and you’ll never have to worry about battery life cutting your gaming sessions short.

Achieving Power Freedom for Your Switch

Between the multitude of USB-C wall chargers, car chargers, and portable power bank options, Nintendo Switch owners have no shortage of solutions for keeping their consoles charged regardless of location. With a few choice accessories, you can kiss battery anxiety goodbye.

While the included Nintendo Switch AC adapter is perfectly serviceable, investing in higher amperage USB-C chargers from budget-friendly yet reliable brands like Anker, RAVPower, or Aukey can significantly cut down charging times. Rapid car chargers and power banks provide mobility for charging on the go.

Some Switch fans might opt to have multiple inexpensive wall and car chargers stationed in different locations while purchasing a high-capacity portable charger for extended trips away from outlets. Others may prefer purchasing high-watt wall and car chargers built for rapid charging while relying on power banks only occasionally. 

Whatever combination of charging solutions you choose, one critical rule remains – never settle for cheap uncertified cables or sketchy off-brand charging accessories. Improper charging can not only reduce your Switch’s battery life over time but could potentially damage the console itself if producing the wrong voltage or wattage.

Stick to name brands (including Nintendo’s first-party offerings) and look for certifications like UL or USB Power Delivery to ensure every component you purchase meets all safety standards for Switch charging. With the right tools and investment, you can ensure your Nintendo Switch stays at 100% power wherever your mobile gaming adventures lead!