So, you've snagged a Switch 2 and you're thinking, "Great, I'll just use my old accessories."? We need to talk. We've scoured the official Nintendo specs, laid out a Switch 1 and a Switch 2 with their accessories side-by-side in our warehouse, and now we're going to go through it with you, item by item, to see what you can still use, what definitely stays in the box, and where you'll need to upgrade.
Table of Contents
- The short answer first
- Compatibility Table: Switch 1 Accessories on Switch 2
- Why do so many things suddenly not fit anymore?
- Screen Protector: Why your tempered glass definitely won't fit
- Covers, Cases, and Protective Bags
- Switch 1 Dock on Switch 2: Does it work?
- microSD vs. microSD Express: The invisible stumbling block
- Old Joy-Con and Joy-Con Accessories
- Pro Controller and Bluetooth Controllers
- What you can truly continue to use
- What you should buy new for the Switch 2
- Frequently Asked Questions
The short answer first
If you're in a hurry: The majority of your specific Switch 1 accessories will not fit the Switch 2. Screen protectors, hard-shell cases, the dock, microSD cards, and the Joy-Con grip are out. What remains: Joy-Con 1 and Pro Controllers still work wirelessly, Bluetooth controllers from 8BitDo, GuliKit & Co. do what they're supposed to, large universal bags often accommodate both consoles, and you can keep your amiibo collection anyway. We'll give you the details shortly.
In plain language: If you only have a large fabric bag and a Bluetooth controller when you switch to the Switch 2, you'll get off cheap. For everything else, it's worth checking out our Switch 2 Accessories Collection so that you don't end up with the first scratches on your 7.9-inch display after three days of gaming fun.
Compatibility Table: Switch 1 Accessories on Switch 2
This table is your 30-second answer. Below, we explain the "why" for each point.
| Accessory for Switch 1 / OLED | Fits Switch 2? | Why / Restriction |
|---|---|---|
| Screen protector / Tempered glass | No | Switch 2 has 7.9" display, Switch OLED 7.0", Switch 1 only 6.2". Sizes don't match. |
| Hard-shell case / Bumper case | No | Dimensions, Joy-Con rails, and button layout are different. Nothing fits flush. |
| Switch 1 Dock | No | Nintendo officially confirms: not backward or forward compatible. |
| microSD card (UHS-I) | No (for games) | Switch 2 requires microSD Express for game installations. Screenshots/videos can be imported once. |
| Joy-Con (old) | Yes, wirelessly | Still work via Bluetooth. Docking to Switch 2 or Charging Grip 2 is not possible. |
| Joy-Con Grip / Charging Grip 1 | No for Joy-Con 2 | Joy-Con 2 are longer and magnetically attached, do not fit into the old grip. |
| Joy-Con Wrist Straps | No | Connector does not fit Joy-Con 2. |
| Pro Controller (old) | Yes, wirelessly | Works via Bluetooth. Of course, it doesn't have the new C, GL, and GR buttons. |
| Bluetooth Controller (8BitDo, GuliKit etc.) | Yes | Wireless pairing logic remains the same. |
| Universal carrying case (e.g., Tomtoc or JSAUX) | Mostly yes | If the interior compartment is large enough (Switch 2 is noticeably larger). |
| USB-C cable | Yes, for charging | For TV mode, you need the Switch 2 Dock including power adapter. |
| Switch 1 power adapter | Conditional | Charges in handheld mode but doesn't provide enough power for stable TV operation. |
| amiibo figures and cards | Yes | NFC also works on Switch 2. |
Sources: official Nintendo support pages on Switch 2 compatibility, Joy-Con 2 FAQ, and microSD Express requirement.
Why do so many things suddenly not fit anymore?
When you first hold the Switch 2, you immediately notice that Nintendo didn't just refresh the hardware. A larger display, faster storage, new connection logic for the Joy-Con, a dock with active cooling. But these very upgrades are also the reason why your old accessories are failing left and right. Three points are decisive:
1. Different dimensions
The Switch 2 is noticeably larger than the Switch 1 and has also grown a good bit compared to the OLED. The display measures 7.9 inches, compared to 7.0 inches for the OLED and 6.2 inches for the original model. This not only changes the display itself but also the surrounding casing, the position of the sticks, and the Joy-Con rails. Everything that fits snugly to the casing - i.e., films, cases, skins - needs a new form.
2. New connection and mounting logic
Joy-Con 2 attach magnetically. This is much more convenient when switching, but it means that the old rail and hook system is completely eliminated. This effectively removes every accessory category that relied on this mechanism: Charging Grip 1, old Joy-Con holders, strap loops, and most third-party grips for Switch 1.
3. New data channels
Switch 2 relies on microSD Express instead of classic microSD UHS-I. The dock has its own cooling and a LAN port. In practice, this means: no Switch 2-compatible frame rates on the TV without a new dock, no modern games on the card without microSD Express. These changes cannot be circumvented with an adapter.
Screen Protector: Why your tempered glass definitely won't fit
This is the most common question we get about the Switch 2. Answer: No, your old Switch or OLED tempered glass won't fit. Nintendo explicitly stated this in their own support article: screen protectors made for Switch, Switch OLED, or Switch Lite are not suitable for the Switch 2.
The reason is trivial yet uncompromising: dimensions. A film or tempered glass is precision work down to the millimeter. Even a 2 mm difference in the display means that either edges remain uncovered or the glass presses on the casing. With almost an inch difference between the Switch 2 and Switch OLED, the matter is clear. If you try anyway, the glass won't stick, will collect air bubbles, or, in the worst case, break when applied.
What you need instead is a specially cut Switch 2 screen protector. Among others, we have the JSAUX screen protector for Nintendo Switch 2 in our range, available in clear or anti-glare, in a double pack. A tip from our own experience: If you play outdoors or in bright daylight, the anti-glare version is worth its weight in gold.
Important regarding the as-delivered condition
The Switch 2 comes with a thin film from the factory that should not be removed. Nintendo has communicated this unusually clearly. This film protects the display from glass shards if it breaks. So you simply apply your Switch 2 screen protector over this factory film. Sounds strange, but it's intended this way.
Covers, Cases, and Protective Bags
This is where it gets interesting, because the answer isn't simply "doesn't fit," but depends on the type.
Hard-Shell Cases and Bumper Cases: No
Anything that fits snugly to the housing, such as silicone and TPU cases, bumpers, battle-armor-style cases, is model-specific. A case made for the Switch 1 or OLED is simply too small for the Switch 2. Conversely: Switch 2 cases are too large and won't hold the smaller console. In addition, there are altered cutouts for Joy-Con rails, cartridge slot, and ventilation slots.
For robust everyday protection for the Switch 2, check out the JSAUX ModCase Protective Cover. If you prefer to protect your Switch 2 thinly and discreetly, we also offer the Spigen Rugged Armor variant with a carbon look.
Skins and Sticker Sets: Model-specific
Skins are also precisely tailored to the dimensions of the console. Even if the design is nice, a Switch 1 skin won't fit perfectly on the Switch 2. You would have overhangs on the sides and gaps around the display.
Carrying Bags: Differentiation is needed here
With soft carrying bags, it gets interesting. Universal bags with generous interior compartments and foam padding are often large enough to accommodate the Switch 2. If your previous bag fit loosely around the Switch OLED, you have a good chance that the Switch 2 will also fit. However, if the bag was precisely shaped (so-called "form-fit" cases), then it won't fit.
Rule of thumb: Lay your old carrying bag flat on a table, measure the interior compartment diagonally. If you need at least about 27 cm in length and 12 cm in height, then you're on the safe side. If it's a tight fit, a dedicated Switch 2 bag or a universal bag from our cases collection is more worthwhile than any makeshift solution.
Switch 1 Dock on Switch 2: Does it work?
The search for "switch 1 dock switch 2" has a simple reason: if you already have a dock in your living room, you'd like to continue using it. The answer, unfortunately, is clear: No.
Nintendo has clarified in official support articles that the Switch 1 Dock will not work with the Switch 2, nor will the new Switch 2 Dock with the old console. Three reasons are decisive for this:
- Active cooling: The Switch 2 Dock has an integrated fan to keep the console at temperature during longer TV sessions in 4K mode. The old Dock does not have this.
- LAN port as standard: The Switch 2 prefers wired data transfer. The Ethernet port is built directly into the Dock.
- New power supply and controller logic: The internal workings have a different power management. Even if you could mechanically force it in, voltages and data channels would not match.
This also applies to most third-party docks from Switch 1. If you are looking for a compact travel dock for a hotel room, you should specifically look for a model approved for Switch 2, ideally with Power Delivery of at least 60 watts.
microSD vs. microSD Express: The invisible stumbling block
This hurdle is often underestimated because it is not obvious. You insert your old 256GB microSD from the Switch 1 into the Switch 2 and think everything is fine. But it isn't.
Switch 2 exclusively accepts microSD Express for game installations. This is a newer standard that works with PCIe and NVMe and achieves theoretical transfer rates of up to 985 MB/s - about nine times faster than classic UHS-I cards used in the Switch 1. Without this speed, many Switch 2 games would not be able to handle their loading times and streaming textures.
What remains of your old microSD card? One small thing: You can insert it into the Switch 2 and use the "Import from a Nintendo Switch microSD card" menu to transfer your screenshots and videos to the Switch 2's system memory. You cannot save or load games on it.
In concrete terms, this means: If you buy digital or install many games, a microSD Express will eventually be a mandatory purchase. When buying, look for the official "microSD Express" designation with the "EX" logo; not everything that says "Express" largely on the packaging is one.
Old Joy-Con and Joy-Con Accessories
This is where one of the most common misunderstandings lies. The question "old joy-con switch 2" has two answers, depending on what exactly you mean.
Joy-Con 1 on Switch 2: Works wirelessly
You can pair your old Joy-Con with the Switch 2 via Bluetooth and use them as additional controllers, for example for multiplayer sessions. They function as input devices, with the trade-off that they naturally do not support Switch 2-specific features (such as the mouse control of Joy-Con 2 or the new C-button workflow).
Connecting to Switch 2: Not possible
Joy-Con 1 cannot be physically docked to the Switch 2. The rails and connector are different, and the magnetic attachment is new. So you only use them wirelessly.
Joy-Con Holder, Charging Grip, Wrist Straps
Bad news: old Joy-Con accessories like the holder, the Charging Grip, or the wrist straps do not fit the Joy-Con 2. The new controllers are longer, magnetically attached, and have a different locking mechanism. If you want to charge with the Joy-Con 2 conveniently, you will need a new charging station or the Switch 2 Pro Controller-and-Joy-Con-Charging-Dock.
Pro Controller and Bluetooth Controllers
If you've invested in a good controller in recent years, now comes the comparatively pleasing part.
Switch Pro Controller (old) on Switch 2
Works. Paired via Bluetooth, you control games as usual. You naturally forgo the new C-button on the front and the GL/GR buttons on the back, which the Switch 2 Pro Controller brings. However, for classic genres, you are perfectly equipped with it.
Bluetooth Controllers from Third-Party Manufacturers
Here too, there is good news. Controllers from 8BitDo, GuliKit, and similar manufacturers, which were already paired with Switch 1, can also be set up on the Switch 2. The Bluetooth pairing logic essentially remains the same. Pro tip from our support: Before pairing, check the controller's firmware app to see if there's an update for Switch 2. Manufacturers like 8BitDo and GuliKit have released their own firmware upon the launch of Switch 2.
What doesn't work
Third-party adapters that were installed via USB in the old dock (e.g., GameCube adapters) are a gamble. You need a Switch 2 Dock for this, USB 3.0 must be recognized, and the manufacturer must provide firmware with Switch 2 support. When in doubt: Check beforehand or write to us briefly, we will gladly check it with you.
What you can truly continue to use
So that it doesn't seem like everything for the Switch 2 is for the bin, here's the positive list of everything you can keep and continue to use immediately:
- amiibo figures and amiibo cards: Work as usual, the NFC reader is still present in the Joy-Con 2.
- Bluetooth headphones: Switch 2 supports Bluetooth audio natively. You simply re-pair your existing headphones once and you're good to go.
- Pro Controller 1: Fully functional wirelessly.
- Third-party Bluetooth controllers: 8BitDo, GuliKit & Co continue to work.
- Joy-Con 1: As an additional controller via Bluetooth.
- USB-C cable: For charging in handheld mode. For TV, you need the Switch 2 Dock.
- Universal carrying bags with sufficient space: If the inner compartment is large enough, the Switch 2 will fit.
- Physical and digital game collection: Switch 1 cartridges work on Switch 2 (with exceptions for game key specifics). Digital purchases transfer with your Nintendo account.
What you should buy new for the Switch 2
If you want to make a clean transition, this list is an honest shopping recommendation. We sell many of these ourselves, but we recommend them not because we sell them, but because every Switch 2 owner will eventually need them after the first week.
| Category | Why now | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Switch 2 Screen Protector (Tempered Glass) | The 7.9" display is the most expensive component and most vulnerable when docking and undocking. | Clear for living room, anti-glare for on the go and daylight. |
| Switch 2 Protective Case | Just one "thunk" onto the coffee table is enough to scratch the Joy-Con rails. | ModCase style for robust protection, slim cases for commuters. |
| Carrying Bag (Switch 2 or Universal) | Form-fit cases for Switch 1 are too small. | Generous universal bags also accommodate Switch 2 Pro Controllers and microSD Express cards. |
| microSD Express Card | As soon as digital purchases are made or larger installations occur, internal storage will become scarce. | 256 GB as a starting point, 1 TB for heavy gamers. |
| Switch 2 Dock Replacement (for travel) | If you want to connect to a TV in a hotel or at LAN parties. | Power Delivery 60 W+, USB-C video, ideally with active cooling. |
| Switch 2 Joy-Con Charging Station | The magnetic attachment of the Joy-Con 2 is not compatible with old holders. | Essential for frequent players. |
Most of these categories can be found bundled in our Nintendo Switch 2 Accessories Collection. We ship within 1-2 business days from our German warehouse, so you don't have to play chess with tape on your display for two weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions about Switch 2 Accessory Compatibility
Does my Switch 1 tempered glass fit the Switch 2?
No. The Switch 2 has a 7.9-inch display, significantly larger than the Switch OLED (7.0") and Switch 1 (6.2"). Films and tempered glass are cut to the millimeter, so your old screen protectors will not fit.
Do my old Joy-Con work with the Switch 2?
Yes, but only wirelessly. You pair them with the Switch 2 via Bluetooth and use them as additional controllers. Docking or inserting them into the Charging Grip 2 is not possible.
Can I use the Switch 1 Dock for the Switch 2?
No. Nintendo has officially ruled this out. The Switch 2 Dock has active cooling, a LAN port, and different power management. It also doesn't work the other way around.
Does the old Pro Controller work with the Switch 2?
Yes, wirelessly via Bluetooth. You forgo the new buttons (C, GL, GR), but for classic games, the old Pro Controller is perfectly sufficient.
Do I absolutely need a microSD Express?
For game installations, yes. The Switch 2 rejects standard microSD cards for games. You can only import screenshots and videos from your old card once.
Is a universal case sufficient, or should I buy a Switch 2 case?
If your universal case is at least 27 cm long and 12 cm high and has sufficient padding, the Switch 2 will fit. Form-fit cases for Switch 1 or OLED are too small. When in doubt, a specially designed Switch 2 case is worthwhile because it includes compartments for Joy-Con straps, game cards, and charging cables.
Are Switch 1 games playable on the Switch 2?
Generally, yes, both cartridges and digitally purchased games. Individual game key cards and a few specific games are special cases; Nintendo's official compatibility list provides the details.
Do my Bluetooth headphones work with the Switch 2?
Yes. Bluetooth audio is on board; pairing once is enough.
Conclusion: A big leap, new accessory box
The truth is inconvenient but brief: the Switch 2 is "new console" enough that your old specific accessories will no longer fit in most cases. You will need to replace screen protectors, covers, docks, and microSD cards if you want to use the Switch 2 properly. What remains are the expensive items: Joy-Con 1 and Pro Controllers as secondary controllers, Bluetooth peripherals, large universal cases, amiibo, and of course, your game collection.
If you are upgrading to the Switch 2 and don't want to navigate all the pitfalls individually, just check out our Switch 2 Accessories Collection. We hand-pick our assortment, ship within 1-2 days from Germany, and include a small surprise with every order. Questions about specific products or compatibility? Feel free to write to us; we will respond personally.
Sources: Official Nintendo support pages for Switch 2 compatibility (Joy-Con, Pro Controller, Dock, screen protector, microSD Express), as of May 2026.
