Tips for using the Nintendo Switch if you have big hands

The Nintendo Switch is a great gaming machine, but like most other handhelds, it can be a bit uncomfortable to use for someone with big hands. As someone who dons such an attribute, I can tell you that it's important to do whatever you can to make sure you have a comfortable grip on your Nintendo Switch.

Why's it so important? Comfort is where it all begins. Not only do you want to make sure you don't hurt yourself, but you also want to cut down on hand fatigue, something that can eventually cause you to lose grip and drop the device. It also means you'll be more effective in your games, as you won't have to do finger gymnastics to hit the buttons you need. Here are some tips to get a better grip and make sure you don't drop the thing.

Buy a case

Unfortunately, Nintendo made a huge oversight when creating the Switch: there's no way to attach a lanyard to the thing! There are grills at the top where one could be attached to, but the plastic on it is far too thin to trust.

If you're like me and you need a lanyard to keep the Switch from falling, try out a case. It'll add a bit of girth to the system and it not only helps protect the Switch in general, but you can also attach a lanyard. While it won't do much for hand comfort, it'll at least protect the Switch from a nasty fall if it ever slips out of your hands.

See at Amazon

Get a grip

Another purchase you could make is a full-on grip. Nintendo Switch grips have been a life saver for me. It allows me to comfortably hold the handheld without having to do some weird claw, hand and body contortion.

A good grip can make the Switch feel more like an actual controller, which means you'll have a better handle on it. You'll improve your game because you'll spend less energy fighting with the Joy-Cons and more of it fighting your opponents.

This also goes for those times when you're playing in docked mode or have the Switch propped up with the kickstand. The included joycon grip is perfect in that regard, so be sure to use it whenever you don't need to hold the device itself.

PS: there are also handles and grips made specifically for using the Joy-Cons in controller mode. Be sure to check out some of our favorites right here.

How to keep your Switch Joy-Cons from hurting your hands

Rest your fingers

When playing, try to use your hand as more of a cradle than a clasp. Let the fingers you aren't using rest on the underside of the Switch to provide a makeshift hammock. You'll find it easier to hold and play in general, and when your hands slip, the Switch isn't going to hit the floor without those fingers breaking the fall.

To that point, let the palm of your hands hug the left and right edges of the Switch. This adds to the whole cradle feeling and will make the Switch feel much more secure in your hands.

Have fun!

No one wants to drop their Nintendo Switch, and no one wants to develop symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome while playing it. Remember these tips each time you play your Switch and you'll have nary a problem keeping your hands on it.