The Nintendo Switch 2 is my favorite gaming handheld right now, but its battery life is still a weak point compared to older Switches. Belkin's new $100 battery pack and grip combo accessory, called the Charging Grip, solves some of the battery issues and even handheld comfort. But it makes the Switch 2 a lot bigger in the process.
I've been trying an early review sample of the Charging Grip over the last week, and there's stuff I appreciate. The 10,000-mAh battery has an LED screen to show charge amount, and generally resembles the battery that also came in an already-available battery pack-embedded Belkin Switch 2 case.
This time, the battery sticks onto the Switch 2 itself. A snap-on plastic shell has a magnetic panel the battery snaps onto, and then a little USB cable pops into the top to charge at 30W. The case I'm trying is black, but it also comes in lilac and olive. Belkin promises 1.5 Switch 2 recharges with the battery. So far, it's been a helpful way to top off the Switch 2 over a day without redocking or plugging in.
With the Charging Grip on, the Switch 2 is basically Steam Deck size.
Scott Stein/CNETThe plastic shell feels a bit flimsy, although it's at least a little more protection for the Switch 2 body. There's a cut-out on the back for the Switch 2's kickstand to pop out.
Two large Joy-Con controller grips come in the package, sliding on easily and locking in place. The rubbery texture and their overall size does make holding the Switch 2 feel more comfy to me, more like the generous size of Steam Deck and Windows gaming handhelds.
I like it, but maybe not enough to keep it on all the time.
Scott Stein/CNETBut the overall battery-plus-grip cosmetic change to the Switch 2 bulks it up a ton. It can still prop up with a kickstand on a table, and can technically narrowly slide into the dock without removing the grip case. But it definitely won't fit into regular Switch 2 carry cases, although Belkin's selling a new shoulder-carry travel bag for that.
One of my favorite parts of the Switch 2 versus Windows handhelds is how much more compact it is, and unfortunately Belkin's grip case erases that advantage. But if you're looking for a battery boost and a comfier grip no matter the cost or size, this might be for you.