20 Accessories Every Handheld Gamer Should Own (No Matter the Console)
(Steam Deck • ROG Ally • Nintendo Switch 2 • Retroid • Anbernic • Ayaneo • and everything in between)
If you’ve been around Koinlift for a bit, you already know one thing about me: I love handheld gaming gear that actually works across multiple consoles. There’s something satisfying about buying an accessory once and getting mileage out of it on your Steam Deck, Switch 2, ROG Ally, or even the retro handheld you randomly ordered at 3 AM.
This post is a follow-up to the “Best Universal Accessories for Retro & Modern Handheld Consoles” guide, but instead of narrowing it down to a top list, we’re going wide. These are the 20 accessories every handheld gamer should own, no matter what you play on or how often you switch between devices. No hype. No gimmicks. Just gear that genuinely improves your gaming setup.
And the best part?
Most of these accessories work across all the platforms featured on Koinlift.
Why Universal Accessories Matter (Especially If You Switch Consoles Often)
Handheld gaming is in its golden era. We’ve got:
- Steam Deck for the PC-on-the-go crowd
- ROG Ally for Windows handheld fans
- Nintendo Switch 2 for first-party classics and hybrids
- Retroid, Anbernic, and Ayaneo for the retro and enthusiast side
- New indie handhelds dropping every few months
Most gamers don’t stick to one lane anymore. You jump between platforms depending on the mood, the game, or whatever new device just hit your doorstep. That’s where universal accessories come in—they’re the smarter, more future-proof buys.
They save money, they simplify your setup, and they support almost anything in your collection. So consider this list your “starter-and-master kit.”
Let’s get into it.
The 20 Must-Have Accessories for Every Handheld Gamer
These are organized by category, but honestly, every item here earns a spot in your portable gaming life.
1. A Universal Protective Hard Case
Rule number one of handheld gaming: protect your investment. A universal hard-shell case keeps your device safe from drops, pressure, and accidental damage whether you’re traveling or just tossing it on the couch. Adjustable dividers and padded interiors make these cases work with the majority of handhelds on the market.
2. High-Speed USB-C Charging Cable (100W or Higher)
If you’re using outdated cables, you’re slowing down your entire experience. USB-C is the standard now, and a good 100W+ cable works across almost all modern handhelds. Go for a braided, durable version that supports fast charging and long-term use.
3. 65W or 100W GaN Fast Charger
A single GaN charger can replace multiple bulky bricks. These are lighter, smaller, and more efficient. One charger typically handles your handheld, your phone, your earbuds, and sometimes even your laptop. It’s one of the best universal upgrades you can make.
4. Tempered Glass Screen Protectors
A scratch-free screen is a happy screen. Tempered glass protectors guard against everyday wear while improving clarity and making cleaning easier. Even if you switch consoles, it’s always worth having screen protection ready.
5. Universal Rear Grip Attachments
If your handheld feels awkward to hold after 30 minutes, you need grips. Universal rear grips use adhesives, straps, or slide-on frames to instantly upgrade ergonomics. They make every handheld feel more comfortable and premium.
6. Adjustable Universal Play Stand
Whether you’re gaming on a plane, desk, bed, or café table, a universal stand just makes life easier. Metal stands or reinforced plastic ones hold nearly any handheld securely in place while letting you adjust the angle for comfort.
7. Low-Latency Bluetooth Earbuds
Audio lag can ruin certain games. Get earbuds with a dedicated gaming mode or low-latency profile and you’ll notice the difference immediately. These work across all handhelds, laptops, and mobile devices, making them a universal essential.
8. A Compact Travel Tech Pouch
Every handheld gamer needs a pouch where all your essentials live. Cables, chargers, SD cards, adapters, earbuds—everything goes in one place. A slim organizer keeps your setup clean whether you’re at home or on a trip.
9. 20,000mAh USB-C PD Power Bank
This is the sweet spot for portable power. A 20,000mAh bank with Power Delivery support can recharge most handhelds at least once and smaller devices multiple times. Perfect for long flights, road trips, and long commutes.
10. High-Speed MicroSD Cards (512GB–1TB)
Storage shortages happen fast, especially if you run emulators, PC ports, or large Switch games. A fast U3/A2 microSD card solves most storage problems instantly and works with nearly all handhelds except some NVMe-only models.
11. Universal USB-C Docking Station
A USB-C dock turns your handheld into a full setup. With HDMI, USB ports, and power passthrough, you can connect controllers, displays, keyboards—whatever you need. This is one of the most universal accessories out there and a game-changer for couch or desk gaming.
12. Mini Bluetooth Keyboard
Typing Wi-Fi passwords, emulator settings, install commands, or cheats is a nightmare using on-screen keyboards. A mini Bluetooth keyboard solves that instantly. It’s small, portable, and works with everything from Android handhelds to PC handhelds to your phone.
13. Cleaning Kit (Spray, Microfiber, Brushes)
Handhelds collect dust, fingerprints, smudges, and all sorts of grime. A small cleaning kit keeps your screen clear, your buttons responsive, and your device looking fresh. Simple but essential.
14. Crossbody Carry Sling or Compact Shoulder Bag
These bags are becoming extremely popular for handheld users. They offer enough room for your device, charger, cables, and maybe a snack. Whether you travel, commute, or just like keeping things organized, a sling makes carrying your handheld effortless.
15. Extra Thumbstick Caps
Thumbstick caps improve grip, comfort, and control. They also protect the original sticks from wear. Universal caps fit most handhelds, making them a tiny but worthwhile upgrade.
16. USB-C to USB-A Adapter
This tiny accessory saves you whenever you run into older peripherals or storage drives. Every handheld gamer should keep one in their bag or pouch—it always comes in clutch.
17. Folding Bluetooth Controller
Sometimes handheld controls aren’t enough, especially when playing docked or tabletop. A folding controller gives you console-level gameplay without taking up space in your bag. Great for travel, couch play, and remote work breaks.
18. USB-C Hub With SD and MicroSD Reader
If you move ROMs, transfer files, use multiple SD cards, or manage emulation content, a hub with built-in card readers saves time and frustration. It also works with laptops, tablets, and phones, making it a super flexible tool.
19. Vinyl Skins and Wraps
Skins give you personality without adding bulk. They protect against scratches and everyday wear while making your handheld look unique. Whether you want minimal, retro, or full artwork, skins are a universal way to customize any device.
20. A Second Charger (For Travel or Backup)
Everyone eventually realizes they need a second charger. Keep one plugged in at home and one in your bag. It prevents that constant unplug-and-replug routine and keeps you ready to game anywhere.
Final Thoughts
Handheld gaming should be simple, portable, and fun—not cluttered and frustrating. These 20 accessories make your setup cleaner, easier to manage, more portable, and way more enjoyable overall.
And the biggest win?
Almost all of these accessories work across Steam Deck, ROG Ally, Switch 2, Retroid, Anbernic, and most other handhelds you decide to pick up in the future.
Universal gear is the smartest investment you can make as a handheld gamer, and this list is everything you need to build a setup that’s ready for travel, couch play, and everything in between.
If you want, I can also turn this into a Gutenberg-block formatted layout, add internal links, build a product grid, or help with your meta description. Just tell me, Pax.