Rather than splashing out on an expensive official Nintendo Switch dock, wouldn’t it just be easier and more affordable to invest in a third-party Switch dock that’s more portable?

Is It Safe to Use a Third-Party Nintendo Switch Dock?

While the simple answer here, in most cases, is yes, there’s a little more to it.

If your Nintendo Switch dock is not working, the best option would be to replace it with the official Nintendo Switch Dock Set. The issue with this is that it’s expensive (around $139 kind of expensive).

So, many people turn to the cheaper option which is to purchase a third-party Switch dock. As long as you’re purchasing a third-party dock from a reputable seller, there’s less chance you’ll brick your Switch. However, back in 2018, this wasn’t quite the case.

Some Third-Party Docks Caused the Switch to Brick

In late 2017, there were several reports popping up on the Nintendo Switch subreddit of Switch consoles being damaged by third-party docks like the Nyko Portable Docking Kit for Nintendo Switch. In March 2018, reports of bricking Nintendo Switches by third-party docks went viral after the popular YouTuber, Spawn Wave, posted a video of his Nintendo Switch giving up the ghost.

After Nintendo’s 5.0.0 update which aimed to provide more backend security and anti-homebrew-related fixes, Nyko’s Twitter account blew up with reports of people’s Switch consoles encountering issues when docked.

While there is no hard evidence to suggest the original cause of the issue, there are many theories circling the internet that some third-party docks didn’t have the proper hardware to cater to the console’s power requirements.

The Best Third-Party Nintendo Switch Docks

There are plenty of great third-party Nintendo Switch docks that are safe to use, and won’t brick your console. Some of these come in the form of an actual dock whereas others are more like hubs or blocks that allow multiple connections.

D.Gruoiza Switch Dock

The D.Gruoiza Switch Dock is an affordable alternative and comes with six ports, including 3x USB, USB-C, Ethernet, and HDMI.

Using the original AC adapter, simply plug the dock in and connect your Switch via a USB-C cable, then connect the HDMI to your TV to enjoy your Switch on the big screen.

SIWIQU TV Dock Station for Nintendo Switch

The SIWIQU TV Dock Station for Nintendo Switch sports more of a familiar look, allowing you to place your Switch on the device for more stability. It’s also incredibly portable thanks to its size, allowing you to take it with you to a friend’s house, or on vacation.

This third-party Nintendo Switch dock features 2x USB ports, USB-C (input/output), and HDMI. It also boasts recovery, overheating, short-circuit, and over power protection.

Runpower Portable Switch Charging Station

The Runpower Portable Switch Charging Station not only charges your Nintendo Switch, but it also allows you to enjoy it in docked mode and keeps it cool with its heat dissipation vents.

Smaller than most smartphones, this third-party Switch dock keeps things simple with an HDMI, USB 3.0, and USB-C port. It’s also available in a range of colors, so you can move away from the original blue and red style if you want.

An Affordable Alternative to the Official Nintendo Switch Dock

Since Nintendo released its 5.0.0 update, and subsequent security firmware updates, the reports of third-party Nintendo Switch docks bricking or causing issues to people’s Switch consoles have positively shrunk.

Investing in a third-party dock is a much more affordable way to continue enjoying your Switch in docked mode, compared to Nintendo’s official product.

Just remember to check user reviews before purchasing, and ensure you are buying from a reputable seller or brand.