NYXI Nintendo Switch Accessories Impressions
Third-party accessories manufacturer NYXI focuses on Nintendo Switch accessories and we’ve even reviewed their Joy-pad Controller before. This impressions piece will look at another model of that controller as well as the dedicated carry case.
NYXI Joy-pad (Transparent Style version)
When it comes to Joy-Con replacements for the Nintendo Switch, the HORI Split Pad Pro has become something of a standard. With its integrated hand grip and mappable back buttons, it brings added comfort and functionality than the Switch’s original Joy-Cons. Would there be any other way to improve on what HORI’s split controller offers? Yes, says NYXI as they essentially revamp the latter with most of its missing features: wireless support, gyro and rumble. While it lacks NFC and IR functionality, to me, NYXI’s Joy-pad is the real Joy-Con upgrade compared to HORI’s version. It bears an actual D-pad, larger face buttons and triggers that make for a more comfortable gaming experience. Also packing an integrated handgrip and mappable back buttons (which I think is a must-have in controllers going forward), the NYXI Joy-pad really makes for a more compelling package whether you want to play in handheld or tabletop mode (the latter not being possible with the HORI Split Pad Pro). I’d recommend you reading our full review of the NYXI Joy-pad as this is essentially the same product.
How it differs is with its aesthetics. As the name of this version suggests, it bears a retro-styled transparent shell. I’m personally fond of this look and lament its lack of support from first-party manufacturers. I get that it might not be to everyone’s taste but if this style appeals to you, you’ll likely agree that it enhances the look of the Switch. Seeing the innards of the controller while gaming on the go isn’t a common sight these days and this makes the controller stand out.
Being transparent also helps address the issue of light leak around the triggers as the controller’s insights are also illuminated, adding to the effect. However, I wish that the insights also integrated LEDs of their own for additional lighting effects.
One key difference that I noticed with the transparent version of the NYXI Joy-pad is that the handgrips aren’t textured. The finish is a smooth one and might not be optimal if your hands get sweaty while gaming. It seems like a major omission from NYXI’s part which I hope they correct in future iterations of their controller.
Nevertheless, the grips still provide added comfort while gaming and the back buttons are easily reachable. I really look for these in controllers nowadays as they provide more convenience and ergonomic options to hit keys with minimal reach.
At £40 at the time of writing on the official website, it is cheaper than alternatives and is well recommended if you’re looking for an upgrade for your Joy-Cons with a standout aesthetic. I don’t mind the lack of an NFC feature myself as I don’t use it but it would be a nice-to-have and would make this controller further stand out from the competition.
NYXI Carrying Case for Wireless Joy-pad
As the Joy-pads are larger than the original Joy-Cons, they might not fit in your Switch’s carry case. Luckily, NYXI has designed a dedicated hard carry case that fits your Switch with the Joy-pad clipped on. It’s of a sturdy enough build that you can safely throw it in your backpack/suitcase without thinking twice; your Switch and Joy-pad will be safe from bumps and even short falls.
While it bears a relatively slim aesthetic, the carrying case has also been designed to hold more than just the Switch and Joy-pad. There are slots for your game cartridges and even storage space for your controller frame for tabletop mode, as well as a mesh pocket for wires and earphones.
I’m fond of this minimalist aspect of the carry case but the £19 price tag might not be enticing to most. However, there's a new "upgraded" version that NYXI says that the carry case also fits the original Joy-Cons as well as the Steam Deck, so you could consider it as a dual-purpose carry case if you own both handhelds.
