The best Nintendo 3DS accessories you can buy

Although the Switch is the latest console from Nintendo, the Nintendo 3DS still gets a lot of well-earned attention. The 3DS is a great handheld console with some classic games to fall in love with. Whether you just bought yourself a new Nintendo 3DS or you’ve had one for years, here are the best accessories you can buy for it.

Editor’s note: We’ll regularly update this list of the best Nintendo 3DS accessories.

A protective case to prevent scratches

If you invest a couple of hundred bucks in a Nintendo 3DS, you’ll want a protective case to prevent scratches and keep it looking as new as possible. While many protective cases may not do much in the way of protection from shock, they will prevent cosmetic defects, and it’s one of the best accessories to get for your 3DS.

There are a ton of options out there for protective cases. You can often find decorative cover plates that snap onto both sides of your 3DS, or you can find clear cases that show off your console. Whichever option you choose, make sure it fits your specific console version.

Cover plates for New Nintendo 3DS

Even though this is more decorative than protective, it will protect your 3DS from scratches. This cover plate is made explicitly for the New Nintendo 3DS console. If Super Mario Maker isn’t the theme you want, you can find a lot of other cover plate designs with other favorite characters, like Tom Nook, Hello Kitty, or Toad.

Snap-on case for New Nintendo 3DS XL

This clear snap-on case is designed for the New Nintendo 3DS XL. It’ll keep your console safe from scratches, and you’ll barely feel it on your console.

A carrying case for traveling

The Nintendo 3DS is a highly portable console people often take with them. A carrying case is necessary if you take your 3DS on-the-go, and is one of the best accessories to invest in. It’ll allow you to keep all your games, charging cables, and other accessories in one easy-to-find place.

Again, make sure the carrying case you buy is compatible with the version of the console you own.

Smatree carrying case for New Nintendo 3DS XL/New 2DS XL

This carrying case from Smatree is perfect for pretty much all versions of Nintendo 3DS/2DS handheld consoles. It has a soft microfiber interior to prevent scratching your console while traveling, and the exterior is protective and water-resistant.

There’s a game card flap in the middle for you to store eight games. There’s also a mesh pocket inside to put your extra accessories.

Game Traveler Nintendo 3DS or 2DS Case

Those who prefer a more interesting-looking design will agree this Game Traveler Nintendo Case is one of the best Nintendo 3DS accessories there is to be had. It’s officially licensed by Nintendo and features a fun Mario Kart image on the front. The hard-shell construction is sturdy and fits pretty much any Nintendo 3DS or 2DS version. It also has a flap for storing six games and extra styluses. You even get a handle for easy carrying.

PowerA The Legend of Zelda Adventurer’s Pouch

If you want to look cool while porting around your Nintendo 3DS, this carrying case looks like an adventurer’s pouch from The Legend of Zelda games. The carrying pouch comes with two custom Legend of Zelda styluses and a Hyrule map cleaning cloth.

You can only fit two game cards in this pouch, so if you’re traveling a long distance, you’ll want to invest in a bigger game card case for your extra games.

A game card case for all your extra games

Although a carrying case can often hold some of your games, you might need extra storage for your other cards. Because all game cards are similar, most game card cases are universal for 3DS/2DS consoles.

Hori Game Card Case

The Hori Game Card Case for Nintendo 3DS can hold 24 cartridges and an SD card. The case is simple, compact, and affordable. You can’t ask for much more.

Sisma 64 DS

If you want to go all out on your game storage case, the Sisma 64 DS is a fantastic alternative. As its name states, the pouch can carry 64 game cartridges. It has a sturdy construction and PU leather outer layer for a more elegant look.

Screen protectors

Although a protective case will prevent scratches on the outside of your console, you’ll need screen protectors to avoid scratches on your screens inside. These screen protectors won’t interfere with your touchscreen accuracy, and you can still see clearly through them.

Nintendo 3DS Game Traveler Essentials

It’s always nice to get official accessories. You know these will work and fit perfectly. The Nintendo 3DS Game Traveler Essentials is made to meet all your needs for moving around. It comes with a couple of screen protectors for your upper and lower screens. Also added are a few styluses and a cleaning cloth.

Akwox Tempered Glass

If you want proper protection for your Nintendo screens, there’s nothing better than tempered glass. These protectors from Akwox are made for the Nintendo 3DS and 2DS XL, but they have plenty of options for other models. Despite the better protection, you’ll still enjoy 99.99% clarity and touchscreen accuracy, and the price isn’t really higher!

A pack of microfiber cloths for easy cleaning

Microfiber cloths are essential for taking care of any electronic device, and one of the best accessories you can buy for your 3DS. It’ll help you remove dust, dirt, and oil without scratching your screen. Even if you have screen protectors, using a microfiber cloth to clean them will prevent minor scratches, so you won’t have to replace them as often.

LifeArt Store Cleaning Cloths

Honestly, any microfiber will work, but we are fans of optimizing value. These cleaning cloths from LifeArt Store are affordable and work like a charm.

An expansion card for more internal storage

Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

You’ll inevitably run out of storage space for your games. So, an expansion card is one of the best accessories to get for your 3DS. Depending on the Nintendo DS console version you have, you may need an SD card or a microSD card. For newer Nintendo DS consoles, you’ll need a microSD. Thankfully, microSD cards usually come with an adapter to fit full-sized SD cards.

Here’s a list of the best microSD cards:

A controller grip for easier handling

Although these Nintendo consoles are handheld, a controller grip is one of the best Nintendo 3DS accessories because it can make for a more comfortable and improved experience. These are especially helpful for longer gaming sessions.

Fyoung Grip for Nintendo 2DS XL

This controller grip is designed specifically for the Nintendo 2DS XL model. The grip works well for games that don’t require the stylus a lot. The ergonomic design makes it easy to hold the console for hours without your hands getting tired or cramped. Plus, if you want to leave the grip on at all times, it’ll give your console some extra cushion if you drop it. It also comes with a kickstand to prop it up while you play or when charging.

MXRC silicone rubber cover for New 3DS XL

This silicone rubber grip is also specifically designed for the Nintendo New 3DS XL. It comes in various colors, so if you’d rather go with a bold red or pink, you have that option. The silicone is soft in your hands, making it comfortable to play for long hours. The grip also wraps around both sides of your console — offering extra protection for any drops.

Some extra charging cables

It’s never bad to have extra charging cables for your Nintendo DS console. Everyone knows charging cables are easy to lose. Plus, it’s nice to have a spare cable for each place you need to charge your console.

Also consider: Find one of the best chargers

Connyam 2 Pack 8ft Nintendo 3DS USB Charger Cables

These cables from Connyamare perfectly functional and work with any Nintendo DS system. They’re eight feet long and are pretty affordable, making them an excellent option for those who want the best value for their money.

An extra battery

A single Nintendo 3DS battery might not be enough for long flights or road trips, when an outlet is usually out of range. This makes spare batteries some of the best Nintendo 3DS accessories.

Alternatives: These are the best portable chargers and power banks

Tomee Rechargeable Battery Pack for New 3DS XL/ 3DS XL

This rechargeable battery pack is compatible with New 3DS XL versions or 3DS XL versions. Having an extra fully charged battery is super convenient, especially when traveling. You can pop in the new battery while charging up the old one.

An NFC reader/writer for your Amiibos

If you play many games compatible with Amiibo accessories, and you love to use Amiibos, you need one of these NFC readers. If you have a new Nintendo 3DS XL, it has built-in Amiibo support. All you have to do is tap an Amiibo on the lower screen, and you’re good to go. For older DS consoles, you’ll need to use an external NFC reader/writer accessory like this one.

Nintendo NFC Reader/Writer Accessory

This accessory is a bit expensive, but Amiibo accessories are fun and can significantly improve your experience.

Some great earbuds or headphones

If you have a noisy household or you’re traveling, though, you need a good pair of earbuds or headphones to help you tune everything else out and stay focused on your game. Those who don’t already have a good pair of earbuds or headphones can check out one of our great collective lists to find a pair that works for you.

Find the right headphones:

Extra styluses

Styluses are like pens. Even if you buy 10 of them, you’ll eventually lose them. They’re so small that it’s hard to keep track of them. You’ll need extra replacements, so let’s help you find some good ones.

Fengwangli Stylus Pens for Nintendo 3DS XL/LL

This is a pack of 15 styluses in various colors. You can start with your favorite and work your way down to your least favorite color as you inevitably lose them. It helps that they’re pretty affordable, too.

Yueton Pack of 10 Retractable Replacement Metal Stylus

If you prefer higher-quality metal styluses, this pack comes with ten units made of metal. These are also retractable, which will make them more comfortable.

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