Nintendo Switch Dock Set Review: Reliable but Overpriced Verdict
Nintendo’s decision to charge as much as €90 for the Nintendo Switch Dock Set continues to ignite debate among players, but real-world feedback paints a nuanced picture. Based on over 1,500 reviews and market listings, this dock delivers reliable, official functionality — yet many still question whether that reliability justifies the premium. After compiling cross-platform experiences across Reddit, Best Buy, ResetEra, and Trustpilot, the dock earns a solid 8/10 for performance with caveats on value.
Quick Verdict: Conditional — Safe, reliable performance for those unwilling to risk third‑party docks, but overpriced compared to alternatives.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Identical performance to included OEM dock | Significantly overpriced in many markets |
| Includes HDMI cable and AC adapter | Bulkier than travel-friendly alternatives |
| Wide availability of refurbished units | Limited to TV mode, no upgrades over OEM design |
| Avoids “bricking” risks of cheap 3rd-party docks | Reports of tight fit with certain cases |
| Simple plug-and-play setup | Plastic feels less sturdy than included dock in some reports |
| Durable over years of use | No extra ports or new features |
Claims vs Reality
Nintendo markets the Switch Dock Set as a direct replacement “identical to the dock included with the console,” promising safe performance without third‑party risks. That claim is largely upheld — Best Buy customer “pro controller” explained: “I chose this dock over a cheaper 3rd party dock because I’ve heard horror stories… The dock itself is fine, identical to the one that comes with the Switch.”
Yet the “simple, affordable accessory” promise doesn’t match pricing reality for many. ResetEra users frequently express frustration: “One hundred and nineteen pounds for a circuit board surrounded by plastic that probably costs Nintendo a fiver to produce.” While some markets see prices as low as $59.99, others face inflated listings from third‑party sellers at $160+, creating a gap between perception and official MSRP.
Nintendo’s inclusion of both a full‑length HDMI cable and AC adapter is seen as value‑adding, but some buyers only needed the dock. Reddit user u/Switch*** noted: “I only need a new dock… my power adapter is fine.” For them, bundle pricing can feel wasteful.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Best Buy’s 483 ratings (4.7/5 stars), the dock’s convenience factor dominates praise. Homeowners with multiple TVs benefit the most. Customer “nolo415” said: “Makes moving the Switch between rooms convenient… I would recommend this for anyone not wanting to go through the trouble of reconnecting.” Families use it to let kids play in separate rooms without tearing down setups.
Durability also earns long-term approval. On Trustpilot, buyers confirm years of continuous use without signal loss or overheating. A verified buyer wrote: “Works lovely… same ports as my included dock, thoughtfully includes cables.” Importantly, safety remains a selling point — Nintendo’s dock consistently avoids the bricking incidents seen with cheap, non‑PD compliant models.
Common Complaints
Price is the recurring friction point. ResetEra threads compile dozens of posts like: “Nintendo somehow values the dock alone at ca. 60€ which is a travesty… It’s just a USB hub + HDMI port in a plastic case.” Even buyers happy with performance report a lingering sense of overpayment. Best Buy’s “aq unr 787” summed it up: “It would get 5 stars if it was $20‑30 cheaper.”
Functionally, it offers no upgrades over the original — frustrating for those hoping for more USB ports or improved build quality. Some Trustpilot reviewers found the fit fussier, with occasional docking detection issues requiring resets.
Divisive Features
The dock’s size and design polarize opinions. While owners appreciate its stability and full enclosure, travel‑focused players prefer compact alternatives like the Genki Covert Dock. Reddit user u/AltDock*** noted: “The Nintendo dock is cumbersome to travel with, so a smaller dock is very welcome… but I went official to be safe.” Others modify physical setup — even Masahiro Sakurai revealed his horizontal dock orientation works fine, surprising fans on social media.
Trust & Reliability
Nintendo’s dock enjoys a reputation for trustworthiness. While third‑party docks like Nyko’s early models notoriously bricked consoles by failing to meet Nintendo’s USB‑C power spec, the official dock has no confirmed safety failures in user reports. Reddit discussions frequently conclude: “If you want a replacement, the official one is the way to go.”
Long-term Best Buy reviewers describe multi‑year use without signal drops. “ganon2222” shared: “If you are in need of another dock… it’s worth picking up. Comes with everything you need for a second TV setup.” Even refurbished docks retain compatibility and performance, though Trustpilot feedback urges caution with non‑Nintendo refurbish sellers due to incomplete accessories or cosmetic wear.
Alternatives
Genki Covert Dock emerges as the most respected third‑party choice, praised for travel portability and safety compliance. GamesRadar’s review calls it “a pocket‑sized lifesaver”, though its $74.99 price isn’t far from Nintendo’s in some regions.
Insignia Dock Kit at Best Buy offers similar functionality at $49.99, with one USB port and a more open design to avoid screen scratches. Buyer “jfizzle” explained: “Includes everything you need, smaller than Nintendo’s… and most importantly, it just works.” Multiple long-term owners report zero issues, suggesting Insignia may be the rare safe budget option.
European players mention Antank Switch Dock S3, a €30 compact dock with Ethernet — features absent in the base Nintendo model. Puissance Nintendo testers confirmed no bricking after weeks of use, though it lacks a bundled adapter.
Price & Value
Price trends reveal volatility. While MSRP in North America hovers around $89.99 with cables, eBay listings range from $24 for dock-only units to $60+ for complete sets. European prices spike to €85–€90 due to stock shortages. Buyers often advise hunting refurbished or bundle deals, especially when official store sales drop the set to $59.99.
Resale value stays strong — OEM docks maintain $35–$50 on eBay depending on completeness. Community tips include buying an entire used Switch bundle to acquire a second dock more cheaply, then reselling the extra console.
FAQ
Q: Will third‑party docks damage my Switch?
A: Only some early or poorly made third‑party docks have caused damage. Official Nintendo docks avoid this entirely; reputable models like Genki Covert Dock and Insignia have strong safety records if paired with the official AC adapter.
Q: Does the dock improve performance or graphics?
A: No. It simply outputs to TV mode at the Switch’s maximum supported resolution (1080p). Claims of 4K support apply only to HDMI spec, not the console’s actual output.
Q: Can I buy the dock without cables?
A: Officially, no — Nintendo sells it as a bundled set. Refurbished or used units from marketplaces often sell dock‑only for less.
Q: Is horizontal docking safe?
A: Yes, as Masahiro Sakurai demonstrated, if the USB‑C connector seat is secure. This can ease insertion/removal in tight storage spaces.
Q: Will it work with Switch Lite?
A: No — the Switch Lite lacks video output hardware, so docking for TV play isn’t possible.
Final Verdict
Buy if you’re a multi‑TV household or traveler who values guaranteed compatibility and safety over price. Avoid if you’re comfortable vetting reputable third‑party docks like Insignia or Genki for lower cost and portability. Pro tip from community veterans: pair any dock, even third‑party, with Nintendo’s official AC adapter to eliminate most risks.
