Update (18th Nov, 14:45): Already confirmed for other parts of the world, we've now had word that the stylish Switch Lite Flip Cover is coming to North America on December 8th, with a retail price of $39.99.
Update (3rd Sep, 10:45): Great news, folks! The official Switch Lite Flip Cover has been confirmed for release in Australia and the UK. In Australia, it'll launch on 6th December, while UK buyers will have to wait until January 2020.
Original Article (30th Aug, 16:30 BST): As with any portable device, you'll likely want to make sure your new Switch Lite is as safe as can be after its launch next month. We're sure it can handle being dropped a few times, but it's always better to be safe than sorry.
Luckily, Nintendo has revealed its very own official Flip Cover for the new console, and it looks like a perfect solution. As you can see in the images below, it appears to simply clasp on to the rear of your console, with one section flipping over to protect the screen, buttons and control sticks. From there, it looks like you can just flip that cover off and get back to playing, all while keeping the case attached.
It's a pretty smart way to stop your console from being battered, so we're hoping this makes its way over to the west; at present, it's only available on the Japanese My Nintendo store, where customers can pre-order it for 3,758 yen (approx. £29 / $35). It launches there in November, so we guess you could try to find a way of importing it if it doesn't get released over here.
Would you grab one of these if it released in your area? Here's hoping Nintendo gives it a worldwide launch.
[source store.nintendo.co.jp, via gizmodo.com, vooks.net]
Comments 82
A bit pricey, but that's totally what my wife wanted to replace her 3DS, lol.
Sold.
It's nice and all, but looks like the rim around the outside would be uncomfortable on your palms over long periods!
I’m sure it’ll come here
This might just have forced my hand to get a Switch Lite. Looks fantastic
This should have just standard with the design in the first place! The clamshell design worked perfect for years, why change what isn’t broken?
35 dollars LOL
@gloom Absolutely. Just make the top side part of the console (with a different material, obviously). The bottom part is not needed.
Perfect as well for leaving a scary message for any would-be thief!
I clicked on this article by accident because the left button on my mouse keeps sticking! Good thing i can replace my mouse without replacing my computer too.
I'd want to buy a Switch Lite, if I didn't think all the colours are kinda "meh". Black or white would've been nice, or Nintendo red.
This looks like a pretty handy accessory, though I'd wonder how comfortable it is to play with the cover hanging at the back.
If you sit down to play, the lid will get in the way if you play the Switch Lite in your lap. Same with sitting at table. Sure you can swing it out of the way, but that right there will get annoying.
I don't know anyone that uses tablet with the cover hanging. It's always folded all the way back - which this cover can't do, it appears. Granted its the magnetized stuff in a tablet cover that makes it heavy & floppy.
Looks like it'd be a pain to have that top part resting against the back of my hands when I'm playing. Not sure why I wouldn't just invest in a normal case.
@Woomy_NNYes Yes. If it was plastic and part of the console it would be better and stay firm. This fabric hanging lid is far from perfect.
@Monkeido In the official video I like the turquoise one the most but now I think that the grey one is nice too.
Way too pricey, and I don't like having the lid hanging like that.
Like the ds as got to switch and now more money sheesh..
Idk what you're talking about, my Switch is pretty safe, sitting in its dock.
I would rather just have a simple slim case to take it out of, these flip covers always feel awkward to use your console with.
Seems like there should be a screen there somewhere 🤣
Would have been nice if when you flip it back, it could could double up as a stand.
It's a shame the Lite is still too large to fit in a pocket, otherwise this would have been essential.
That looks fantastic. No extra piece to deal with
@BlueOcean My girlfriend thought the turquoise one looked great as well, to each their own.
For me even the regular Switch grey (which is the one I bought), doesn't look amazing colour-wise, but I had to have it right away anyway. I can hold off on the Switch Lite for now, plus I'm assuming it'll get more colours (whereas the regular Switch only got different coloured joy-cons).
I've always been tempted to buy the neon neon yellow joy-cons, but I already have two pairs, so buying another one would seem like a waste to me.
I dont get why they put the switch lite speakers downwards...:/
@RasandeRose I imagine it is due to a combination of space limitations and trying to keep hands from covering them. Most smartphones go for that kind of design as well.
The clam shell has been a staple of the 3DS/2DS for many, many years, and it works! Why they chose to make their NEW mobile handheld console not have a clam shell is just completely bizarre.
They could have crammed a 2DS in to the top part, and made the Switch Lite be backwards compatible with the full line of 3DS/2DS library. Then the Switch Lite would have been a must buy. As it is right now, the Switch Lite is a meh at best.
@yuwarite you said it. If I bought a switch lite I’d just get a regular case to put the device which I’d throw in my backpack anyway. Switch would get more protection and I wouldn’t have to deal with a awkward flap when gaming.
@PharoneTheGnome A Switch-lite BC with the 3ds would be phenomenal, insta buy
@frabbit this is more to keep it save while not using. When you use it you take it out of course for full comfort you're welcome
@PharoneTheGnome To be fair that hasn't really been a staple of Nintendo handheld designs, the original GBA had a design similar to the Switch Lite and none of the original Game Boys folded, only the SP. I am honestly glad that Nintendo moved away from their old DS era design, I have never been a fan of the hinged clam shell design. The device just seems slimmer and more solid without it.
Looks a bit clumsy, to be honest. I'm looking towards a screen protector and a carry case that's actually sturdy - seriously, what's with the flubby cases anyways? - for my son, who is otherwise a bit rough handed, no matter how much he tries.
@Monkeido Yeah, I'm sure that they'll release Switch Lite consoles in a lot of colours like the 3DS and you'll find one that you like more. I will probably wait for a bundle with Super Mario Odyssey (I have Mario Kart 8 and Breath of the Wild on Wii U).
I feel that this would be better if it folded back and sat flush on itself and used magnets to stop the flap moving and hanging there when in use.
That or if it could be securely used as an alternative to having no kickstand built in.
Looks like the "1DS" making its debut.
Looks neat but price seems a bit high. I got 2 cases, 2 screen protectors and 2 clear silicone sleeves for the same price as they're charging for this!
The 3DS is back, guys!
Couldn't that just be he design anyway?
Would help differentiate it from the original Switch.
Making a DS, part one..
@Smigit That makes a lot of sense. Nintendo missed an opportunity here. Surely for this price it should be able to do that.
@Alucard83 so the flip part is just so you can admire the screen while not using? Doesn't make a lot of sense.
No interest in the lite. Ever!
@frabbit
They probably took care of that part and made it comfortable; I believe the main problem is going to be it quickly wearing down around the edges, losing whatever coating is over the base plastic probably, leaving it exposed. Similar to what happens on eBook/Kindle covers for example, that are always worn out at the edges and stop looking good pretty soon.
It's up on Amazon Japan (and yes, they ship internationally!)
https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B07X5L6GSW/
Imagine if Nintendo Switch combined with Dual Screen 3DS.
@PharoneTheGnome Are you suggesting adding an entirely new screen to a console whose entire library is made up to single-screen games just so the it could achieve backwards compatibility with an eight year old system which can be bought secondhand for less than the price than a pair of Joy-Cons?
Just set up a JP Amazon account. Easy. Costs 8 bucks to ship to US. 3 day shipping
I wonder if it it actually protects the buttons from getting pressed constantly. If it doesn't it's laughably worthless.
@Maxz Yes. Yes I am. Thank you for asking.
Already preordered from Japan.
This thing is crucial. It actually makes the Switch Lite a pocketable system, and that's priceless. A must have for any Switch Lite owner who wants to carry lite (no pun intended).
Perfect for me seeing that I have too many cats 😂
@PharoneTheGnome The cost of adding an entirely new functioning screen of a similar spec to the lower one would raise the costs of production enormously as well as the weight, possibly putting it at or above the cost of the console it’s meant to be a ‘lighter, cheaper’ version of. This would have the effect of driving away the exact market (3DS players) they’re trying to coax with this console in the first place, all so people could play horrible blown-up, pixelated versions of the games they can play anyway.
OK BUT WILL THE CONTROLLERS DRIFT?
Probably not. I'm expecting Pro Controller quality.
Any word on this coming to the US? This looks like a sweet case.
I just want nintendo to make a new ds with specs on par to the wii u and it can play ds, 3ds and wii u games. It would be the gba of the ds
@Monkeido dont they have black?
@Ralizah
It doesnt. I own one and the lid flipped back doesnt even touch my hands, at all. There's a cut out for the shoulder buttons and that's where your fingers are. And it doesnt flip ALL the way back so it doesnt touch hand either. And it's so lightweight it's like it's not even there
Best accessory I've purchased in recent memory, hands down. I couldn't imagine using my Lite without it when bringing it with me out of the house.
edit
Whoops, I guess your comment was 2 months old. Didnt know they recycled the article
@JaxonH So the back part of it flips around to the other side entirely?
@JaxonH I thought the cover folded back & hanging would be problematic. Thanks for that info.
@JaxonH Could you please upload pictures of the back with the lid open and the lid closed, also the front with the lid closed. When you’ve got the time for it of course.
@BlueOcean And costs like 1$ to make in China.
Console and PC accessories is where the money is. Not the main hardware itself.
@JaxonH Nice use of the photo.
For $40 does this turn your Switch on and off like the magnetic Amazon Fire tablet covers? Does it come w/ the screen protector like the box pic? That would help w/ the $40 price, those things cost a few $.
For half the price, $20, I think I'd go w/ the case and screen protector. Sure it's an extra step, but it's $20.
https://smile.amazon.com/Nintendo-Switch-Lite-Carry-Screen-Protector/dp/B07V7QZMFQ/ref=sr_1_3?crid=30U7F76DPZH2P&keywords=switch+lite+case&qid=1574091432&sprefix=Switch+lite%2Caps%2C144&sr=8-3
Also a bunch of Lite case for $10 and under you can keep your games and charging cable in. I like this Pokemon inspired 1.
https://smile.amazon.com/DACCKIT-Travel-Carrying-Nintendo-Accessories/dp/B07V8G35BR/ref=pd_cp_21_3/133-9824982-8155642?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B07V8G35BR&pd_rd_r=8a9060d7-e60d-4433-a551-8d58bdd4989d&pd_rd_w=do449&pd_rd_wg=hDtsH&pf_rd_p=0e5324e1-c848-4872-bbd5-5be6baedf80e&pf_rd_r=QX3AFM83F335MS9PW55Z&psc=1&refRID=QX3AFM83F335MS9PW55Z
If they put a second screen inside the cover and maybe develop some games where the two screens interact with each other, they might be onto something...
Oh ouch thats pricy. But I'll probably get it at some point.
I'm gotta admit, it does look interesting
Looks like the case I would get. And now coming to the US - trying really hard not to buy a LITE. Do not really need one - just want it 😆
@rjejr Oh wow... those look nice also. The 2nd one reminds me of my New 2DS PokeBall edition.
@JaxonH You killing me!... look away, must not BUY! 😅😆
@Agramonte I really like the flip case, just not $40 like it. If I wanted a $200 Lite and $40 case I'd buy a $300 Switch.
I got it from amazon JP. I love it. It magnetically closes. It has a cool tough fabric feel. It’s perfect imho. I paid 37 US dollars- free shipping amazon prime to the US
When closed are the shoulder buttons protected???
Yeah I really don't like these flip covers, but I guess like some people like them. I just think it gets annoying having that flip lid sitting there while gaming.
It looks pretty basic,doesn’t it?
@Agramonte
In fairness most things we buy aren’t really things we need, ammirite? Its all about luxury gaming. Do I need it? Not really. Do I want it? Oh heck ya 😁
@Ralizah
Uhh, if you force it, but it’s not meant to be played like that. If you just let the lid naturally rest it hangs with roughly a 100 degree angle between the bottom of the Switch and the lid. So not quite all the way down to form a 90 degree angle, but within 10-15 degrees. The flap doesn’t make contact with your hand at all when playing. It’s very slick just flipping back and playing, then flipping shut.
Pictures for those requesting it here.
@rjejr
It is expensive. But that’s what Christmas gifts are for. It’s super slim and makes the system pocketable which to me, is worth it.
@rjejr
"I really like the flip case, just not $40 like it"
Pretty much what I think each time I go to the Apple store looking for a case... end up with a $20 one from amazon 😄
The clamshell design is perfect for protecting the Switch, but $40 seems a little much IMHO.
@JaxonH That looks really Nice 👍
40 bucks lol, no thanks I will stick with the regular case I picked up for 12 bucks.
So... None for non-Lite models? That's unfortunate.
@Agramonte "I go to the Apple store"
Well I think I see your problem.
@JaxonH Well I know it's worth it to you, you don't have a kid going to college. I'm spending like $400 on application fees alone this month. And we just wrote a check for $385 for AP exams. Before I'd spend $40 for a cover for a $200 device I'd probably just wear out the $20 device then buy the new and improved next model $200 device. Have I ever told you my 10% rule? Never buy an extended warranty that's more than 10% of the piece, b/c any more than that, just wait for your thing to break and put that money towards a new and improved one.
I'd get it if I were you though, I can still recall being 35, no wife, house or kids but a good paying job, buying what I wanted, when I wanted it. It's a good feeling to have.
@rjejr Yeah. I stop doing that
After a bit of time there be "similar" cases to this one on Amazon.
@Agramonte Well there is already this one for only $13 after coupon but I wouldn't buy anything on Amazon w/o some reviews first.
https://smile.amazon.com/Leather-Case-Nintendo-Switch-Protective/dp/B07ZT2TX18/ref=sr_1_1?crid=12NTW66IPAN0E&keywords=switch+lite+flip+cover+case&qid=1574198801&sprefix=switch+lite+flip+cover%2Caps%2C137&sr=8-1
Those suction cups looks stupid, I'd cut them off and just keep a rubber-band around it.
There's also this one for $11 in four different colors. It's not a flip case but it comes w/ a screen protector so you'd still get some protection. And for another $10 get a case to keep it all in with your games and cables, still only half as much as this official one.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07WPC52ZG/ref=sspa_dk_detail_1?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B07WPC52ZG&pd_rd_w=yM6Aq&pf_rd_p=45a72588-80f7-4414-9851-786f6c16d42b&pd_rd_wg=nmI8t&pf_rd_r=8PPCXM9G033H000CYV09&pd_rd_r=0a7b75f4-00b6-46e1-b015-5f48f688ef96&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFSTzRLVjhRVzhLTEcmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTA2MTg5ODUyQ0MyWFpDRVMyRlYwJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA1MjEyOTQxVFMxWFRVTzU5V0FBJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfZGV0YWlsJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==
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