Dbrand Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con Holder Launches - Is It Better Than the Official Grip?

By Powkong Staff | May 1, 2026

Introduction: A New Contender for Switch 2 Comfort

The Nintendo Switch 2 has been a massive success since its June 2025 launch, selling over 10 million units in just four months according to The New York Times. With that success comes a thriving accessories market, and the latest entrant is Dbrand, the company known for its bold claims and skin-tight cases. On April 30, 2026, Dbrand launched a Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con holder that promises to be "more comfortable than a Pro controller" but at a far cheaper price, as reported by GamesRadar. This is a bold statement, especially considering the Switch 2's official Joy-Con grip is included in the box and many players have already invested in third-party solutions. In this article, we'll dissect Dbrand's new accessory, compare it to the official grip, and see if it lives up to the hype.

Design and Build: What Makes the Dbrand Holder Different?

Dbrand's Joy-Con holder is not your typical plastic grip. Unlike the official Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con grip, which is a simple frame that holds the two Joy-Cons together, Dbrand's design incorporates ergonomic contours, textured grips, and a more substantial feel. The holder is made from a combination of polycarbonate and rubberized materials, designed to reduce hand fatigue during long gaming sessions. The key innovation is the "winged" design that provides palm support, similar to what you'd find on a traditional console controller like the Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5 DualSense. This is a significant departure from the flat, minimalist approach of the official grip. For players who use their Switch 2 primarily in handheld mode or with detached Joy-Cons, this holder could be a game-changer. If you're looking for a more portable solution for your Switch 2, consider the POWKONG Cubedock 2 - Portable Dock & Charging Block for Switch 2, which combines a dock with a charging block for on-the-go use.

Ergonomics: Can It Really Beat a Pro Controller?

Dbrand's claim that the Joy-Con holder is "more comfortable than a Pro controller" is audacious. The official Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is widely regarded as one of the most comfortable controllers on the market, with its full-size grips, textured handles, and balanced weight distribution. To challenge that, Dbrand had to get the ergonomics right. According to early impressions from GamesRadar, the holder's larger grips and textured surfaces do provide a more secure and natural feel compared to the flat official grip. However, it's important to note that the Joy-Cons themselves are still smaller and lighter than a Pro Controller, so the overall experience may not be identical. The holder adds about 30% more width to the Joy-Cons, which helps distribute weight more evenly. For players with larger hands, this could be a significant improvement. If you prefer a dedicated controller for docked play, the FUNLAB Switch Pro Controller offers a premium alternative, but for those who want to keep using their Joy-Cons, the Dbrand holder is a compelling option.

Price and Availability: A Budget-Friendly Alternative

One of the most attractive aspects of the Dbrand Joy-Con holder is its price. At just $19.95, it's significantly cheaper than a Pro Controller, which retails for $69.99. It's also cheaper than many third-party Joy-Con grips from brands like Hori and PowerA, which typically cost between $25 and $40. The holder is available directly from Dbrand's website and is expected to ship within 2-3 business days. Given the demand for Switch 2 accessories, early stock may sell out quickly. For comparison, the official Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con grip is included with the console, but if you want a spare or a more comfortable option, Dbrand's offering is a no-brainer. If you're also looking to charge your Joy-Cons while playing, the POWKONG Plantdock 2 Piranha - Switch Dock & Joy-Con Charger is a great companion piece that combines a dock with a Joy-Con charger.

Comparison: Dbrand Holder vs. Official Joy-Con Grip

Let's break down the key differences between the Dbrand holder and the official Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con grip. The official grip is lightweight, compact, and gets the job done, but it lacks ergonomic features. It's essentially a plastic frame that holds the Joy-Cons in place, offering no palm support or textured grips. In contrast, the Dbrand holder is bulkier but provides a more natural hand position. The official grip is free (included with the console), while the Dbrand holder costs $19.95. For many players, the extra cost is worth it for the improved comfort, especially during long gaming sessions. However, the official grip is more portable and can be easily slipped into a carrying case. If you prioritize portability, the official grip wins. If you prioritize comfort, the Dbrand holder is the better choice. For a more comprehensive charging and docking solution, the POWKONG Pipedock - Portable Switch Dock & Charging Block offers a unique cylindrical design that's perfect for travel.

Compatibility: Works with All Switch 2 Models

The Dbrand Joy-Con holder is designed specifically for the Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons, which have a slightly different shape and rail system compared to the original Switch Joy-Cons. The holder is compatible with all Switch 2 models, including the standard edition and any special editions that may launch in the future. It also works with the Switch 2's GameChat feature, as the C button and microphone are fully accessible while the Joy-Cons are in the holder. This is important because the official grip can sometimes obstruct access to the C button, which is used for the new GameChat functionality, as detailed in Nintendo's official guide. The Dbrand holder has cutouts for all buttons and ports, ensuring full functionality.

Verdict: Should You Buy the Dbrand Joy-Con Holder?

Dbrand's Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con holder is a solid accessory that delivers on its promise of improved comfort. While it may not completely replace a Pro Controller for all players, it offers a significant upgrade over the official grip at a very affordable price. The $19.95 price point makes it an easy impulse buy for anyone who finds the official grip uncomfortable. If you're a frequent handheld mode player or someone who uses detached Joy-Cons regularly, this holder is a worthwhile investment. However, if you already own a Pro Controller or prefer the portability of the official grip, you may not need it. Ultimately, Dbrand has once again proven that it can disrupt the accessories market with innovative designs and aggressive pricing. For more Switch 2 accessories, check out the full range at Powkong.

Sources

• GamesRadar - Dbrand has launched a Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con holder that's "more comfortable than a Pro controller" but far cheaper
• The New York Times (via Facebook) - Nintendo Switch 2 sales milestone
• Nintendo - Become a GameChat pro with this guide!