The best chargers to replace your original Nintendo Switch charger
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When you need to purchase a replacement charger for your Nintendo Switch, you want a reliable, inexpensive option. We've looked into chargers and determined that these three are the best of the best. See which one fits your needs.
- Best Overall: Nintendo Switch AC Adapter
- Best Value: AC Adapter Charger
- Best USB Adapter Charger: Insignia Power Pack for Nintendo Switch
Best Overall: Nintendo Switch AC Adapter
The officially licensed Nintendo Switch AC adapter is the replacement of choice. It's a bit expensive compared to other options on the market, but it isn't likely to have any problems since it's made by Nintendo. The cable reaches 5-feet long and works with any 120-volt outlet and the Switch dock. You can also detach it from the dock and plug it directly into your Switch if you want to play with the screen in your hands. You can also use it to charge a Pro Controller.
Who should buy it: Anyone who prefers to buy officially licensed accessories.
Pros:
- It's officially licensed
- 5-foot cable
- Works with Dock
Cons:
- It's expensive
- Isn't a USB cable
Best Overall
Nintendo Switch AC Adapter
The official Nintendo Switch AC adapter
Created and sold by Nintendo, this adapter is 5-feet long and works with the Switch dock. Plug it into any 120-volt outlet. You can also plug it directly into your Switch bypassing the dock if you want to use it on the go.
Best Value: AC Adapter Charger
This generic AC adapter charger supports TV mode and works with the Switch dock. The cable is 5-feet long giving you plenty of cord to reach an outlet. You can also plug this adapter directly into the Switch and charge from any 120-volt outlet. It's compatible with the Switch console, Pro Controller and Dock. Since this isn't a USB, you cannot remove the cable from the adapter.
Who should buy it: Anyone who wants the functionality of the official adapter at a cheaper price.
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- 5-foot cable
- Works with Dock
Cons:
- Isn't a USB
- Isn't officially licensed
Best Value
AC Adapter Charger
Inexpensive AC adapter
It's an inexpensive adapter that works just as well as the officially licensed one. Use it directly with your Dock, Switch console or Pro Controller. Works with any 120-volt outlet. The cable reaches 5 feet so you'll have plenty of room to reach an outlet.
Best USB Adapter: Insignia Power Pack
The Insignia Power Pack is the traveler's adapter. You can easily pack and store the detachable USB and adapter in a bag or purse. The cord is 6.5 feet long, making it longer than the official adapter. It also comes with a USB car charger so you can play during long car trips. It cannot work with the Switch docking station, which means you won't be able to play on the TV using this adapter. It is a bit more expensive than other options, but that's the price to pay if you want a USB charger for your Switch.
Who should buy it: Anyone who plans on traveling or using the Switch without the TV for long periods.
Pros:
- 6.5- foot USB cable
- Packs and stores easily
Cons:
- Doesn't work with Dock
- Cannot play on TV
- Expensive
Best USB Adapter
Insignia Power Pack
The perfect traveling adapter
This USB adapter is a great option if you plan on playing Switch in handheld mode. The USB cable is detachable making it easy to store and travel with. It also includes a USB car charger so you can play during road trips. The adapter cannot work with the docking station so you won't be able to play on a TV.
Bottom line
When it comes to a Nintendo Switch adapter, all you really want is reliability and a decent cord length. There are several generic options aside from the official Nintendo AC Adapter, but you'll want to be careful that you don't purchase a dud. Currently, there aren't any USB adapters that can work with the Nintendo Switch Dock.
To determine the best replacement adapter for Nintendo Switch, we looked at user reviews, product descriptions, and cord length. The best replacements work with your Dock so that you can play on TV. We noticed that five feet is the standard for all AC adapter cables. We would like to see an option that offered a longer cord for those hard-to-reach spots. We're constantly looking for new Nintendo Switch accessories so we'll keep you informed if any new and outstanding adapters make their way onto the market.
Credits
Rebecca Spear Rebecca Spear is a life-long gamer and a writer for iMore. She has written hundreds of online articles over the past four years. Her interests include Nintendo, PlayStation, Xbox and PC games.