TLDR Review: CRKD Nitro Deck+ Controller (Clear Black)
Pros
- •Significantly improves handheld comfort compared to native Joons, with a sturdy, Steam Deck-like design.
- •Programmable sidekicks and back buttons add valuable customization and functionality.
- •Docking capability that allows direct TV projection without removing the Switch is a major convenience.
- •Charging port relocated to the back eliminates interference during gameplay and supports pashrough charging.
- •Analog sticks feel smooth and provide superior control, especially appreciated in FPS and twitick shooter games.
- •Trigger buttons have a satisfying tactile response, contributing to a premium feel.
- •Grip texture and overall build quality feel solid and durable, enhancing the gaming experience.
- •ad performs well for fighting games, making it versatile across different genres.
- •Includes a nice carrying case that holds the system securely.
- •Button action is quiet and clicky, which users find satisfying during extended play sessions.
Cons
- •A/B/X/Y face buttons are positioned awkwardly, often requiring uncomfortable hand postures.
- •Button layout is less ideal for buttoeavy games like Mario, limiting its appeal in such scenarios.
- •Analog sticks and buttons are placed somewhat low, making them harder to reach comfortably for many users.
- •Domhaped thumb grips lack variety, with some users wishing for multiple thumb grip style options.
- •Limited internal game storage capacity and no dedicated spot to hold a charging brick.
- •The layout issues persist even across both original and updated versions, affecting overall ergonomics.
- •Some users with smaller or larger hands find the design less usable or uncomfortable despite other benefits.
Bottom Line
The **CRKD Nitro Deck+ Clear Black Edition** is a solid upgrade for Nintendo Switch and OLED model owners who want enhanced handheld comfort, programmable buttons, and hassle-free TV docking. Its sturdy build and improved analog sticks especially shine for FPS and shooter fans, though button positioning might frustrate those playing button-heavy titles. If you’re aiming for better ergonomic control and customizable inputs without sacrificing TV dockability, this controller delivers in spades, but be mindful if face button ergonomics are critical for your gaming style. For users prioritizing perfect button placement or with very small hands, exploring other pro controllers might be worthwhile, but the Nitro Deck+ brings an innovative and robust option that could easily become your new go-to Switch companion.
How we researched this
About this review: We pulled together findings from professional reviews and hundreds of user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.
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