Six different Nitro Deck controller bundles are on sale at Amazon, including GameCube- and SNES-inspired models.
By Steven Petite and Jon Bitner on February 20, 2024 at 2:07PM PST
Nitro Deck Controller + Carrying Case Bundles
If you’re searching for a more comfortable way to enjoy your Nintendo Switch, there are multiple third-party controller suggestions worth exploring. Hori’s Split Pad Pro and Split Pad Compact have gained significant popularity over the years, but the Nitro Deck deserves your attention as well. Being a new entry in the Switch controller market, CRKD’s Nitro Deck exudes an aura of luxury in both look and feel. For a brief period, Amazon is presenting substantial markdowns on Nitro Deck Bundles. Retails at a low price of $60, each bundle includes a firm protective case. Conversely, you can purchase the monochrome Nitro Deck without a protective case for $50.
Nitro Deck Switch Controller Discounts
Six different Nitro Deck controller bundles are included in Amazon’s short-duration offer. However, the GameCube-styled purple model is the only one available at the $60 range. The rest of the five controller bundles are priced at $70, but that amounts to a $20 saving nonetheless.
All six hues included in these packages look pretty arresting. Old-school game lovers might want to evaluate the SNES-styled grey Nitro Deck. The rest of the four colours–Crystal Pink, Emerald Green, Orange Zest and Atomic Red–sport translucent designs that reverberate nostalgically with the times when Nintendo produced translucent Game Boy and Nintendo 64 models.
The Nitro Deck functions as a supportive bracket for your Switch. It is designed to accommodate both the standard Switch and Switch OLED models. Once the screen is fitted into the U-shaped controller, users can access controls on either side of the display while also utilizing the USB-C port. This hardwired connection ensures rapid response times, eliminating the need for unreliable wireless connections. Besides its efficient functionality, the solid design of the cradle offers exceptional sturdiness.
The Nitro Deck distinguishes itself with various standout features. It comes equipped with full-sized analog sticks and triggers, a traditional D-pad, four reprogrammable back buttons, and ergonomically curved handles for comfortable grip. The usage of Hall Effect sensors in the analog sticks eliminates the elements that typically cause stick drift. What’s more, the analog stick caps can be replaced, and an additional set of caps is included with each package.
Besides these features, the Nitro Deck also comes with an inbuilt kickstand for tabletop mode and passthrough USB-C ports for simultaneous charging and TV or monitor play. Docking the Switch in the usual manner isn’t possible with the Nitro Deck. The extra port, therefore, becomes a valuable attribute. Furthermore, a dedicated smartphone app lets users customize the Nitro Deck features in greater detail. A rear button on the controller also facilitates easy on-the-go remapping of the four back buttons.
Worth mentioning is the fact that while the Nitro Deck is ergonomically designed for comfort, the location of the right stick might require some acclimation depending on the user’s hand size. As visible in the image, the right stick occupies a lower position which may be unfamiliar initially. Additionally, while the Nitro Deck does feature a rumble effect, it doesn’t quite match up to the “HD rumble” present in Nintendo’s Joy-Con controllers.
The hardshell carrying case fits the Switch with Nitro Deck attached perfectly. It has a mesh pocket where you can store the included USB-C cable and analog stick caps. The carrying case also has an insert that holds eight game cartridges.
Best Gaming & Tech Deals This Week
Got a news tip or want to contact us directly? Email news@gamespot.com