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The Turtle Beach PlayTrek Travel Case for Nintendo Switch 2 is the definition of eye-catching. From the very moment this model entered my line of sight, I was instantly drawn to it. Its lenticular exterior… its Donkey Kong Country-inspired look… its leaf-green handle… I simply had to get my hands on it.
And now, I finally have it in my clutches – the coveted DK case. But just how good is Turtle Beach’s lightweight Switch 2 case? Pretty damn good, actually.
See, I’ve tested a lot of cases for Nintendo’s latest hybrid console, including some that sit in our guide to the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories, and some that… well, aren’t quite up to scratch. But one thing has frustrated me with the bulk of these cases. They just lack the playfulness and personality I’d associate with Nintendo.
Of course, that’s not a problem for the PlayTrek Travel Case, which is licensed by Nintendo itself. The Donkey Kong variant I tested is attention-grabbing, includes bold greens and red details, and has lenticular art that reveals multiple layers of trees from different angles. It’s a great-looking item, and the most bodacious I’ve seen so far.
If you’re not all too big on the Kong, fear not. There’s a lenticular Mario Bricks alternative, featuring the Italian plumber himself, or more basic colorways like Charcoal Black and Stellar White.
We’ve spoken a fair bit about looks, but just how practical is the PlayTrek Case for Nintendo Switch 2? Well, first of all, I’m a big fan of the main compartment, which is fitted brilliantly for the Switch 2 console. It’s not too tight of a squeeze, but it’s also very secure. You can flap the middle compartment over your system, and hold it in place with its hook and loop fastener. If you ever drop your case, then your console should be safe.
I touched on that middle compartment, and I have to say, Turtle Beach nailed it here. It’s equipped with twelve game card slots, which can hold either Switch or Switch 2 games. These slots mold to your cartridges with ease, and when I gave the case an almighty shake, they didn’t fall out. Twelve slots is also very generous – I mean, even the official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case only has six. Sure, Nintendo's official case isn't as bulky overall, but in turn, you do get more room for your gaming gear from the PlayTrek Travel Case.
The final compartment – situated under the roof of the case – is pretty neat too. It contains a zip-up pouch that can be used to store a charging cable, Switch 2 camera, or Joy-Con 2 grips, but it’s a little too small to house a dock or larger accessory like the Turtle Beach Rematch Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2, for example. This compartment is padded, however, meaning you get even more protection for your system.
(Image credit: Future)In general, the PlayTrek case feels very durable. It’s got an EVA hard shell design ensuring it can survive a fair few drops, and it’s wrapped in TPU-coated polyester, helping it to weather everyday wear. When dropping the case from waist height multiple times, I couldn’t see any indication of damage, although the lenticular cover was a little susceptible to marks like fingerprints – a minor issue in the grand scheme of things.
Right, after all of this, you’re probably wondering whether there’s a catch. For example, it’s probably expensive, right? Well… no, no it isn’t. The PlayTrek Travel Case is typically priced at $29.99 / £19.99 / AU$39, making it cheaper than Nintendo’s official case – a model with fewer game card slots, protection, and storage space. I’ve even seen it go on sale recently, too, with a price cut to just $24.99 / £16.99 in the US and UK at the time of writing. That’s amazing value for money.
So, here we are at the end of it all. Did Turtle Beach’s DK-themed case meet my expectations? No, it didn’t. It surpassed them. With a durable build, excellent low price, charismatic look, and astute storage, this case is ideal for on-the-go use. Sure, it’s not large enough to fit your dock, but there are different cases specialized for that, like the Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case and Nacon Protection Case XL for Switch 2. Bravo, Turtle Beach, you weren’t monkeying around with this one.
(Image credit: Future)Turtle Beach PlayTrek Travel Case for Nintendo Switch 2 review: price & specsPrice
$29.99 / £19.99 / AU$39
Dimensions
11.8 x 6.1 x 2.3in / 300 x 155 x 58mm
Weight
0.8lbs / 378g
Number of game card slots
12
Compartments
3
Handle
Yes
Color
Charcoal Black, Stellar White, Donkey Kong, Mario Bricks
(Image credit: Future)Should I buy the Turtle Beach PlayTrek Travel Case for Nintendo Switch 2?Attribute
Notes
Rating
Design
Attractive lenticular exterior with fun look, well-built with hardy exterior, but can pick up fingerprints quite easily.
4.5/5
Storage
Secure storage for Switch 2 console, loads of game card slots, handy pouch, not quite big enough for dock or larger accessories.
4.5/5
Value
Phenomenal low price for a case with this much quality and personality.
5/5
Buy it if…You want a case that stands out from the crowd
The PlayTrek Travel Case is available in an eye-catching array of designs, but my favorite has to be the Donkey-Kong-themed model. Its lenticular artwork and vivid use of color make it a true joy to behold.
You’re looking for excellent durability
This case isn’t just a looker, though; it’s also very durable. Its EVA hard shell design will keep your Switch 2 safe from the odd drop, and the TPU-coated polyester protects against daily wear. On top of that, the case's padded interior and fitted build will keep your system secure and in place, even if you’re taking a bumpy ride.
You need a case to house your dock
This model isn’t the largest around, so it won’t quite fit your Switch 2 dock or some other larger accessories. If that’s what you need, check out my top suggestion in the ‘Also consider’ section.
You’re easily bothered by fingerprints
Like a lot of its fellow cases, the PlayTrek Travel Case is fairly susceptible to picking up fingerprints. If markings like that tend to rub you the wrong way, it may be worth looking at an alternative, like a soft case. The Hori Puff Pouch for Nintendo Switch 2 is an option that springs to mind.
Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case
OK, this one’s pricey, but stick with me here. If you need a case that’s large enough to house your dock, a Pro Controller for Nintendo Switch 2, and all of the necessary wires and accessories, this is the ultimate pick. Nintendo’s official all-in-one case doesn’t have the hardest exterior, but it’s highly scratch-resistant, has individual compartments for your gaming gear, and is all you need for heavy-duty on-the-go gaming.
Read my full Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case review.
Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2
If you want something a little different, then check out this cross-body option, the Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2. It’s a great value-for-money pick with plenty of room for your console and accessories, and can be used with a shoulder strap or traditional handle.
Read our full Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2 review.
How I tested Turtle Beach PlayTrek Travel Case for Nintendo Switch 2(Image credit: Future)I spent multiple days testing the Turtle Beach PlayTrek Travel Case for Nintendo Switch 2, taking it with me to the office for my workplace’s weekly Mario Kart World showdown.
During my time testing, I made sure to try filling the case with my Switch 2 system, games, and accessories, and performed durability tests to ensure the case performed its job effectively. I even compared it against my go-to model, the official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case, on aspects like design, storage space, and ruggedness.
More generally, I’ve spent two years reviewing products here at TechRadar, and have lots of experience testing Nintendo Switch 2 accessories. I’ve tested a huge amount of cases, alongside screen protectors like the Genki Aegis Shield, cameras including the Hori Piranha Plant Camera for Nintendo Switch 2, and controllers like the Turtle Beach Rematch Wireless Controller.
The Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk does just what you'd expect, based on the name. The device comes with two different attachments, one for blending and one for whisking. The attachments are easy and intuitive to swap out. You can use the provided container or use just about any pot, bowl, or container you'd like. Make your favorite sauces, smoothies, whipped food, and more. The Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk offers three power levels.
Working with an immersion blender is a bit different from a standing blender; you need a bit of coordination to get everything blended properly. You need to hold down the power button as you blend, use an up and down motion, and use another finger to toggle the speed up or down. I ended up with some tiny ice shards in some of my smoothies, but further blending probably would have taken care of that.
Cleanup couldn't be easier. The motor/handle can be wiped down with a damp cloth if needed. All other parts can be popped into the dishwasher (top rack) or hand-washed with warm soapy water. All of the parts are light and easy to stash away, freeing up valuable counter space for other appliances.
Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk: price and availabilityThe Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk can be found at many major retailers across the US, both online and in stores. You can purchase it at Ninja's own website or at Walmart, Target, Macy's, Amazon, and many more. There are two color options: Dark Gray, which you can see in my photos, and Deep Navy. Additional accessories available for purchase include a 3-cup Power Chopper and 4-cup Blending Pitcher.
Price
$79.99
Power levels
Low, medium, and high
Parts included
Power base, whisk attachment, blender attachment, 3-cup blending container and lid
Container material
Plastic
Additional accessories available
3-cup Power Chopper and 4-cup Blending Pitcher
Color options
Deep Navy and Dark Gray (as seen in my photos)
Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk: design and featuresThe clever design of the Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk allows it to be used in a lot of different situations. From blending sauce on the stove to cottage cheese in its own container or whisking egg whites in a shallow bowl, this appliance offers a lot of flexibility. The provided 3-cup plastic container is handy and even has a lid for storing leftovers. The blending blade is surrounded by a splatter shield to minimize mess as you blend.
Other thoughtful touches include the ease with which you can swap out the blending blade and whisk. All parts that contact food are designed to be dishwasher-safe, which makes cleanup super easy. They can also be easily hand-washed if you prefer.
The power button must be held down as you use the device, which takes a bit of coordination, especially if you change speeds while blending. It does take some getting used to, but I can't fault Ninja for that choice: it is clearly a safety feature.
(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)I tested the Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk on a number of different foods. I blended pasta sauce, hummus, smoothies, frozen yogurt, and cottage cheese. I whisked egg whites. It handled everything well without excessive mess or noise.
I made some pasta sauce from canned whole tomatoes. I placed the immersion blender directly into the pot on the stove. In less than a minute, the tomatoes were blended into a smooth puree. I was a little nervous that I'd end up with sauce all over my stove, but that was not the case at all.
Karen Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureI made two different smoothies, one with frozen cherries, almond milk, and yogurt and another with frozen mangoes and fruit juice. Both came out smooth and delicious.
Karen Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureI also made some different "frozen yogurts," which are similar to smoothies but with frozen fruit, ice, yogurt, and no liquid, so they are a bit more challenging for blenders. I made a banana-peanut butter flavor, banana-chocolate, and cherry. The banana versions also included some hemp seeds and protein powder. All of the seeds and powders blended up smoothly. I did get the occasional ice shard; I probably could have taken more time to be sure I blended every inch.
I blended the cherry one directly in the yogurt container (which only had about a half-cup of yogurt left at the bottom.) I just added frozen cherries and blended for a super-simple and healthy dessert.
Karen Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureI had about half a container of cottage cheese and I blended it right in the container. Just a few seconds turned the curds into a smoother texture, which I later used to make a chia pudding.
Karen Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureI made an ultra-simple hummus with ingredients I had on hand: a can of chickpeas (rinsed and drained), lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, garlic, and salt. It actually came out delicious, though I suspect that the addition of tahini would have made it even better and smoother.
Karen Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureI've never actually whipped egg whites before, but the whisk attachment made it super easy. The pictures below speak better than words. It was kind of magic.
Karen Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureKaren Freeman / FutureAttributes
Notes
Rating
Value
You can't call it cheap, but it does a good job for the price.
4.5/5
Design
It's well-designed to do its job; cleanup and storage are super easy.
5/5
Performance
It does a thorough job both blending and whisking. Even immsersing it in small containers, I rarely made a mess.
4.5/5
Overall
It's smallish but mighty!
4.5/5
Buy it ifYou need a compact, hand-held blender powerful enough to crush ice
Don't let the size fool you, this immersion blender makes quick work of smoothies, sauces, and more. It might miss a few bits of ice here and there (though maybe that's my impatience talking) but overall, it does the job.
You want cleanup to be easy
All of the parts that contact food can be popped into the dishwasher or quickly hand-washed.
You want a powerful whisk, too
Easily swap out the immersion blender arm for a whisk and you've got yourself a power whisk for frothing up eggs, cream, and more.
Don't buy it ifYou want gravity to do the work
This is an immersion blender, so you'll need to hold down the power button as you move the blender up and down. Toggling between low, medium, and high speeds while you're doing that takes some coordination.
You need a higher-power blender
At 750 watts, it should be powerful enough for most things, but you may find it lacking if you want ultra-smooth and silky smoothies.
You want to purchase just one blender-type appliance
If you plan to have just one blender in your kitchen, this might not cover all of your blending needs. You might prefer a standing blender or one that comes with more attachments.
Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk: also considerIf the Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk isn't exactly what you're looking for, you might consider the following:
Vitamix A3500
I've made space on my counter for a powerful Vitamix for well over a decade. It's the ultimate for ultra-smooth smoothies and more.
Read our review of the Vitamix A3500
Breville the All in One
If you want even more than what the Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk has to offer, add a food processor and you'll have an idea of what the Breville All in One has to offer.
Check out our review of the Breville the All in OneView Deal
How I tested the Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with WhiskI blended pasta sauce that started with a can of whole tomatoes. I made a simple hummus with a drained and rinsed can of chickpeas, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and spices. I made several different kinds of smoothies and frozen yogurt with ice and/or frozen fruit, some of which included powders and seeds. I blended cottage cheese, right in its container. I whisked egg whites until they formed peaks.
Read more about how we test.