The Nintendo Switch's dock isn't exactly for everyone. Some say it's clunky and hard to use, and that's why third parties have been churning out alternatives to it.
Accessory maker Nyko is one of them, bringing the Portable Docking Kit for Nintendo Switch to the table. The thing is, it may have been a miss this time around, as several users are reporting that it's damaging the console, particularly its USB-C port.
Nintendo Switch Charging Problems
Redditor vegetarian_metroid is one of the unfortunate users who had to send in their Switch to Nintendo for repair. According to them, the console wouldn't charge anymore after using the Portable Docking Kit, and to add insult to injury, the dock didn't even work.
"I just got this dock a few days ago. After connecting everything together, I found that the dock did not work. The bigger issue is the Switch would no longer charge after that," they say.
This could've been chalked up to just a one-time user error, but others were quick to chime in and share a similar experience.
"I read your post this morning and checked my switch tonight. I was shocked that I can not charge mine as well. The battery still has a charge but the USB-C port is done. I think Nyko cheaped on the internals big time," Redditor irishsoldier says.
In short, the root of the charging problem lies in the USB-C port getting damaged when using the Portable Docking Kit.
Of course, this doesn't mean that all the Portable Docking Kit units will kill the Switch. Other users in the thread did say that they didn't encounter any issues with the dock. In other words, it's likely that they are isolated problems, where a few users drew the short end of the stick.
Nyko Holds AMA
Soon after, Nyko started an AMA (Ask Me Anything) on Reddit, and sure enough, someone brought the Portable Docking Kit issue up.
In reply, the company says:
"We always run our products through rigorous testing procedures. Any of our products that have electrical components also carry all required certifications like CE, UL, ROHS, etc., to ensure that they meet quality and safety standards. We are only aware of one instance that came through our customer support team. We are investigating it now and taking care of that customer."
To show good faith, Nyko even says that in the event that one of its accessories damages the console it's been made for, it'll replace not only its product but the system too — which in this case is the Switch.
Take note that Nyko has been providing reliable products in the past for various consoles, including but not limited to the PS4, Xbox One, and the 3DS. Put differently, it would be jumping the gun to persecute the accessory maker for this particular mishap.
For the record, the Portable Docking Kit is priced at $49.99, while the official Switch dock at $89.99.
With all said and done, have you had any problems with your Switch after setting it up with the Portable Docking Kit? If so, feel free to drop by our comments section below and let us know.
