Nintendo Switch Modifications: N64 Docks, Clear Joy-Cons & Better D-Pads
The Switch works beautifully out of the box — but a few clever mods can make it look and feel like nothing else on the shelf.
The Nintendo Switch is unlike any traditional console you've ever seen — because it's a hybrid machine, one that can be used either in docked mode or in handheld mode. One of the main selling points of the Nintendo Switch is that it lets you play your favourite games anywhere. And because it isn't your typical console, there are a whole host of mods you can find for it.
Every one of these different mods gives the Nintendo Switch some kind of functional or aesthetic advantage.
There are plenty of modifications to choose from, and a few of the best are covered below.
The N64 Dock
As you already know, if you want to play your Nintendo Switch games on the big screen, you'll need to connect the console to the dock that comes in the box. That stock dock does the job, but it's pretty basic and rather plain-looking. This is where the N64 dock comes in — a simple modification for your Switch. For the uninitiated, the N64 is a classic Nintendo console, and this dock makes your Switch look exactly like one. It doesn't add any special functionality, but it does give the setup a wonderfully cool, retro look.
Clear Switch
If you're one of those people who thinks the default Joy-Cons that ship with the Nintendo Switch look a little too plain, you'll find this modification very satisfying. With it, you can completely change your default controllers and make them clear. You get to see all the internal circuitry of the controller, and that gives it a genuinely unique look. Do note, though, that modifying your controller this way is a little tricky — you'll need to take the controller apart completely and then reassemble it afterwards.
D-Pad
Many Nintendo Switch users aren't satisfied with the d-pad on the Joy-Con. The default arrow keys aren't the best quality, and they're not especially comfortable to use for most people. This is exactly where the modders have come to the rescue: you can now get a classic d-pad for the Nintendo Switch that looks and feels completely different.
These were some of the things you need to know about Nintendo Switch modifications. As far as mods go, you don't get many options in the box — you'll either have to carry out the modifications yourself or buy the products separately. There are plenty of third-party and first-party mods out there, and with them you can spice up your Switch and give it a much more personalised look. That's exactly what most people go for when they get the chance.
