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Is there a good grip for the 3DS? aka my hands hurt after using this thing
- Thread starter Trojita
- Start date
chickdigger802
Banned
hmm reviews seem mixed at best. Hate how detactable battery packs all block out the power plugin which makes hitting R button a pain (it has to be done.. but still).
Wonder if someone will make a replaceable battery pack like power pak that also has a grip. Would be perfect...
Wolfe
Member
While I've been using this one for almost a month now: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UBSR46/?tag=neogaf0e-20
I'm thinking about picking up the Hori wheel grip instead as it seems like a better overall package with the revised shoulder buttons.
Decisions.
I'm thinking about picking up the Hori wheel grip instead as it seems like a better overall package with the revised shoulder buttons.
Decisions.
Tribes of Trusty
Member
I've just bought a Hori Wheel grip for 3DS, my impressions :
- There is a wheel, a instruction note and a strap in the bundle. The strap can be put on either side of the 3DS (there are holes made on each side)
- The installation is easy : just put the shoulder buttons first, then the strap by the hole (in order not to let go of the console if it ever gets out of the wheel), and then the rest of the console.
- The grip is definitely not what I expected : that is to say a controller-like shaped, but it is really like a wheel.
- Thus you really handle it like a wheel, and it takes a little while to find your optimal position and to get used to it.
- The L and R shoulder buttons feel way more confortable for my big hands.
- After a GAF race WW in Mario Kart 7, I felt way less tense, and I had no cramps in the hands after 4 races.
It's really confortable to use with MK7, but I wonder how it is with Super Mario 3D Land and Zelda OOT3D. I can also do some photos if you want.
- There is a wheel, a instruction note and a strap in the bundle. The strap can be put on either side of the 3DS (there are holes made on each side)
- The installation is easy : just put the shoulder buttons first, then the strap by the hole (in order not to let go of the console if it ever gets out of the wheel), and then the rest of the console.
- The grip is definitely not what I expected : that is to say a controller-like shaped, but it is really like a wheel.
- Thus you really handle it like a wheel, and it takes a little while to find your optimal position and to get used to it.
- The L and R shoulder buttons feel way more confortable for my big hands.
- After a GAF race WW in Mario Kart 7, I felt way less tense, and I had no cramps in the hands after 4 races.
It's really confortable to use with MK7, but I wonder how it is with Super Mario 3D Land and Zelda OOT3D. I can also do some photos if you want.
woo and indeed hoo
Banned
Thanks for the impressions
.If you have a chance to try it with some other games please post your impressions.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UBSR46/?tag=neogaf0e-20
I just got it and it's pretty good. My hands don't cramp anymore and it's easier to hold it in the 3D zone.
I just got it and it's pretty good. My hands don't cramp anymore and it's easier to hold it in the 3D zone.
Femmeworth
Banned
I can't wait until mine arrives tomorrow, though I don't even own Mario Kart 7.
Update (12-29-11): It arrived just a little while ago.
I'll post my impressions later.rollingstart
Banned
I got the Hori Wheel grip in the mail earlier today too. Messed around with a few GBA games and Mario Land 3DS.
Shoulder buttons are great. Placement feels a lot more natural and still as responsive as do without the grip attacked. D-pad is finally usable or me. Everything just feels more like it does on a regular controller. It has a nice grip on the backside to curve your fingers around.
My main and only real problem with it is that it's a wheel shape. The little inward curve towards the bottom feels unnatural compared to most controllers which go down or away from the center. I could ignore it and just grip with the inside bit, but it could be improved.
If Hori releases something similar but with traditional grip styling, it would be perfect. Already this is a nice improvement.
Shoulder buttons are great. Placement feels a lot more natural and still as responsive as do without the grip attacked. D-pad is finally usable or me. Everything just feels more like it does on a regular controller. It has a nice grip on the backside to curve your fingers around.
My main and only real problem with it is that it's a wheel shape. The little inward curve towards the bottom feels unnatural compared to most controllers which go down or away from the center. I could ignore it and just grip with the inside bit, but it could be improved.
If Hori releases something similar but with traditional grip styling, it would be perfect. Already this is a nice improvement.
Ryoma-Echizen
Member
turnbuckle
Member
This. I love it so much I bought my friend one and will pick up one for my bro too. Can't play the system without it.I have this one and it rocks.
Very comfortable, makes playing MK soooooo much better. It is kind of ugly but form follows function I always say.
Femmeworth
Banned
Yeah, it's pretty great. I've only been using to play Devil Survivor: Overclocked so far, but I bet it's going to be fantastic for Ace Combat Assault Horizon Legacy. The shoulder buttons are ingenious. Nintendo should have just had Hori design the circle pad pro. I agree it can be improved. If Hori releases an alternate design that is more like a console controller in shape, it will be damn near perfect.
SaintMadeOfPlaster
Member
This guy adds just enough thickness for it to be comfortable to me. The added battery life is a huge plus as well:
http://www.amazon.com/Nyko-Power-Pak-3DS-Nintendo/dp/B004SJA7L6
However, it seems I'll have to take it off if I ever want to use the Circle Pad Pro...
http://www.amazon.com/Nyko-Power-Pak-3DS-Nintendo/dp/B004SJA7L6
However, it seems I'll have to take it off if I ever want to use the Circle Pad Pro...
Wolfe
Member
This guy adds just enough thickness for it to be comfortable to me. The added battery life is a huge plus as well:
http://www.amazon.com/Nyko-Power-Pak-3DS-Nintendo/dp/B004SJA7L6
However, it seems I'll have to take it off if I ever want to use the Circle Pad Pro...
I would actually still be using mine if not for Mario Kart being the first 3DS game to make my hands cramp up, thus incentivizing me to shop for a grip
Wolfe
Member
PM me your address and I will send you the ones I don't use.
Mr. Pointy
Member
So glad I stumbled onto this thread. Going to NYC in a while, so I'll definitely pick this up while I'm there. Now I'm angry that the default charger for the 3DS isn't a switching power-supply. Gonna have to acquire some way to charge it while I'm there. I have a switching USB power-supply (gives out the standard 5V) - and the normal charger outputs 4.6, so it will work to charge via USB. Just need to find a cable.
So the circle pad grips aren't available for the US?
Still no battery-pack that is also a good grip? I was leaning towards the CTA one, but it seems the shoulder button problems makes it a no-go for me.
It's between these two:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UBSR46/?tag=neogaf0e-20
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004MKN3YE/?tag=neogaf0e-20
Maybe the first one? Sounds like it's v2 of the second one?
So the circle pad grips aren't available for the US?
Still no battery-pack that is also a good grip? I was leaning towards the CTA one, but it seems the shoulder button problems makes it a no-go for me.
It's between these two:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UBSR46/?tag=neogaf0e-20
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004MKN3YE/?tag=neogaf0e-20
Maybe the first one? Sounds like it's v2 of the second one?
Wolfe
Member
It is version 2 of the second one and works pretty well, I think I'm partial to the Hori wheel now though as I love the shoulder buttons and overall fit in my hands. The CTA grip fits better in my palms though due to the grips positioning.
The first one is the 2nd version.
PumpkinPie
Banned
What are your thoughts on the MK wheel?
Zenaku
Member
I can confirm this. The original R button is not only within reach, but even fits nicely under my right index finger when it needs to be used. CPP is perfectly usable with any DS or 3DS game.
I also agree it loses points for lack of a stylus slot though; I had to keep the stylus in my hand while playing EO3. The cartridge slot being inaccessible hasn't been a problem though.
Tribes of Trusty
Member
OK I can't see myself playing SFIV or Dead Or Alive without the Hori Grip now. It makes the + button way more usable.
Trojita
Rapid Response Threadmaker
So I got my wheel grip and was using it over the weekend while playing Metroid Fusion (What a great game!) from my ambassador's games.
The wheel grip by Hori makes the 3DS usable. My hands didn't start hurting within 10 minutes, like they did when I was just using the 3DS naked. It was pretty comfortable to use for the most part. The triggers are perhaps one of the most striking features of the grip. The shoulder buttons are so much easier to hit now, I was unexpectedly hitting them on the main menu and turning on the camera.
I can't help but feel that the grip could have been perfect if they didn't have to go with the wheel theme. That said this is a worthy accessory to purchase. It's a pain in the ass to need something like this just to play a system comfortably, but at least there is a solution.
The wheel grip by Hori makes the 3DS usable. My hands didn't start hurting within 10 minutes, like they did when I was just using the 3DS naked. It was pretty comfortable to use for the most part. The triggers are perhaps one of the most striking features of the grip. The shoulder buttons are so much easier to hit now, I was unexpectedly hitting them on the main menu and turning on the camera.
I can't help but feel that the grip could have been perfect if they didn't have to go with the wheel theme. That said this is a worthy accessory to purchase. It's a pain in the ass to need something like this just to play a system comfortably, but at least there is a solution.
YESASIA? Why didn't I think to check that site?
http://www.yesasia.com/us/3ds-grip-stand-japan-version/1023895657-0-0-0-en/info.html
hmm $21.99 plus shipping that's more than double what I would've wanted to spend on a grip. Before I even consider ordering one, I'll have to think about it awhile.
But honestly, it really does look like a very comfortable grip to me
decisions decisions
So, even though it cost more than what I wanted to spend on a grip I eventually ordered it from YESASIA.
Well YESASIA just cancelled my order.
Sad I won't be able to use it or post impressions
To me it looked like one of the few grips that would make using the d-pad completely 100% comfortable. It looks like it had longer handles than even the CTA power grip posted above.PumpkinPie
Banned
So, even though it cost more than what I wanted to spend on a grip I eventually ordered it from YESASIA.
Well YESASIA just cancelled my order.
Sad I won't be able to use it or post impressions
I ordered mine from them about 3 weeks ago and I just got a shipping email from them about 2 days ago. Maybe they don't have many available? I'll still post impressions when mine turns up if you like.
I don't know... I ordered it a few days after I first posted about it.
Are you in the US, maybe YESASIA is having problems importing video game accessories into the US for some reason. Mudkips had a similar issue with YESASIA and the circle pad grip covers.
The Lamonster
Member
I just got my CTA grip and I must say I am loving it so far. No complaints.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004MKN3YE/?tag=neogaf0e-20
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004MKN3YE/?tag=neogaf0e-20
Kuramu
Member
I have this and love it. Feel super comfortable like a console controller. Holding down L and R buttons is a pleasure
I also have this one and don't like it. The 3DS sits too flat in it.
PumpkinPie
Banned
I'm in the UK so you may be right. Mine turned up today and it's really nice, it has a soft, rubberised finish and fits my hands perfectly. It feels more like a CC Pro than a X360 controller but it's really comfortable.
I had to send my 3DS for repair but once it comes back I'll post pics. I checked YESASIA but they don't appear to have it now.
Lupin3
Targeting terrorists with a D-Pad
Just bought this one! Sorry for the bad quality.
I have mixed feelings about this. The grip is good in itself, and it's really great when you're using the d-pad. But I find using the slide pad just a little akward. Not bad, but it is almost placed too high up. I'm guessing I will get used to it though. Only been playing for a couple of minutes.
My index fingers are never placed on the shoulder buttons naturally, but instead just below them. Feels somewhat strained to use them.
The grip is of course plastic, but has a "rubbery" feel to it. And the 3DS sits tight. No wobbing at all.
All ports on the 3DS are usable when placed in the grip and you can adjust the volume and remove the stylus without bigger problems.
I have big hands, so for me the grip is really nice. In the end I can recommend it, but this is the only grip I've tried, so there might be better ones out there.
I have mixed feelings about this. The grip is good in itself, and it's really great when you're using the d-pad. But I find using the slide pad just a little akward. Not bad, but it is almost placed too high up. I'm guessing I will get used to it though. Only been playing for a couple of minutes.
My index fingers are never placed on the shoulder buttons naturally, but instead just below them. Feels somewhat strained to use them.
The grip is of course plastic, but has a "rubbery" feel to it. And the 3DS sits tight. No wobbing at all.
All ports on the 3DS are usable when placed in the grip and you can adjust the volume and remove the stylus without bigger problems.
I have big hands, so for me the grip is really nice. In the end I can recommend it, but this is the only grip I've tried, so there might be better ones out there.
Need a grip. Should I get this?
Or this?I just got my CTA grip and I must say I am loving it so far. No complaints.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004MKN3YE/?tag=neogaf0e-20
Femmeworth
Banned
Wolfe
Member
Forgot about the thread, I actually stopped using my CTA grip after getting the Hori wheel, I'm a huge fan of the shoulder buttons and the way the grip is held in my hands. Doesn't feel like I have to hold the thing as tightly.
Also the shoulder buttons.
woo and indeed hoo
Banned
Well that is encouraging as mine arrived today. Yay!
When I say arrived however I mean that RM shoved a 'sorry you were out' card through the door and ran away without even trying to deliver it. Thanks :/.
It is very much needed too as my long play sessions on SM3DL are not doing much good to my hands!
When I say arrived however I mean that RM shoved a 'sorry you were out' card through the door and ran away without even trying to deliver it. Thanks :/.
It is very much needed too as my long play sessions on SM3DL are not doing much good to my hands!
I haven't opened my CTA yet. Should I return it and get the hori wheel instead?
Edit: opened my cta. Oh my god it feels amazing
woo and indeed hoo
Banned
Yes but what about the CTA?!
Picked up my Hori wheel yesterday. Initial impressions are favourable but I want to give it a few days before I give my definitive impressions. At the moment it still feels rather odd but given how much I have been playing my 3DS recently that was pretty inevitable I think.
I have that 3DS wheel by Hori, and it's pretty good.
I bought it as a grip as holding the 3DS sometimes can make my pinky, and ring finger go to sleep. Also with Mario Kart, the L and R buttons are used so much, the 3DS ones aren't 100% comfortable to me.
The L & R buttons on these things are completely responsive, they literally feel as if they are the actual 3DS's buttons.
And not only that, they are way better than them and feel very comfortable to use. I don't have thick hands or anything but, i'm sure that to those who do, this is a godsend.
The wheel itself has a smooth, matte surface, that feels a lot better to me than gloss. You hold this a little differently than a usual controller, but it doesn't feel like a new experience, so don't worry about that.
Overall, i'd give this a 9/10. Best thing i've bought for the 3DS so far, and I always use it when i'm playing the 3DS.
Hopefully YESASIA restocks those rubber thumb pads, they cancelled mine as well.
I bought it as a grip as holding the 3DS sometimes can make my pinky, and ring finger go to sleep. Also with Mario Kart, the L and R buttons are used so much, the 3DS ones aren't 100% comfortable to me.
The L & R buttons on these things are completely responsive, they literally feel as if they are the actual 3DS's buttons.
And not only that, they are way better than them and feel very comfortable to use. I don't have thick hands or anything but, i'm sure that to those who do, this is a godsend.
The wheel itself has a smooth, matte surface, that feels a lot better to me than gloss. You hold this a little differently than a usual controller, but it doesn't feel like a new experience, so don't worry about that.
Overall, i'd give this a 9/10. Best thing i've bought for the 3DS so far, and I always use it when i'm playing the 3DS.
Hopefully YESASIA restocks those rubber thumb pads, they cancelled mine as well.
Wolfe
Member
Great post on the wheel and shares my opinions on it as well.
I still like the CTA grip for what it is, and it does fit into my palms better than the wheel but the overall feel and the shoulder buttons in particular put the Hori wheel at a distinct advantage for me.
Another little tiny perk for me due to the shoulder buttons on the Hori wheel, my right index finger doesn't hit the power cable when the 3DS is plugged in while using the wheel (which is a problem with the CTA grip for me).
I still like the CTA grip for what it is, and it does fit into my palms better than the wheel but the overall feel and the shoulder buttons in particular put the Hori wheel at a distinct advantage for me.
Another little tiny perk for me due to the shoulder buttons on the Hori wheel, my right index finger doesn't hit the power cable when the 3DS is plugged in while using the wheel (which is a problem with the CTA grip for me).
gingerbeardman
Member
Glad my review of the wheel made it into this thread. It's permanently on my 3DS.
I answered some follow up questions about it on Amazon.co.uk and am happy to do the same here.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/review/R2EHJ6WNUKWHP9/
The Hori wheel wasn't my first grip, but it's definitely the best I've tried. So good it ended my search.
I answered some follow up questions about it on Amazon.co.uk and am happy to do the same here.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/review/R2EHJ6WNUKWHP9/
The Hori wheel wasn't my first grip, but it's definitely the best I've tried. So good it ended my search.
woo and indeed hoo
Banned
Well I haven't used the CTA pad so I couldn't comment on that. There seem to be pros and cons to both from what posts there are about them in this thread so it's really a question of what your criteria is.
I have used the Hori Wheel extensively though and I simply can't imagine being without it now. On the odd occasion I forget to put my 3DS in it before starting to play it just feels so awkward and uncomfortable. It took awhile until my hands adjusted to it but now it feels so right I really wouldn't want to be without it. Frankly I am struggling to think of a con for it. The only slight one would be that one can't access the SD card whilst the 3DS is in the wheel but that is more of a theoretical issue than one in practical everyday use. Besides it takes a mere moment to put the 3DS in or take it out of the wheel.
Other than it makes my 3DS play sessions much more comfortable and my hands can go far longer without complaining [hours recently with SM3DL] it has some unexpected pluses for me. Firstly, because of the added depth I don't have to worry about squashing the headphone jack [I play with earphones 99% of the time on 3DS] and secondly, I don't keep accidentally knocking the volume slider so I can set it at the level I want and forget about it. The shoulder triggers are wonderful and because of the improved ergonomics I am not gripping it so tightly when I get overexcited in games and have far less accidental butt stomp into oblivion deaths in SM3DL as a result. Lastly, it allows easy access to the stylus, SD card slot and power port [so I can charge and keep playing, yay!].
tl;dr: recommended
BUMP!
Sorry for bumping, but I'm hoping one of you guys can help find those slide pad covers. It's out of print on yesasia now.
I haven't noticed how bad the circle slider thing was until I started playing Revelaitons
Just checked YESASIA has them for $11.99 plus shipping
www.yesasia.com/us/3ds-slide-pad-cover-white-japan-version/1025629061-0-0-0-en/info.html
Sorry for bumping, but I'm hoping one of you guys can help find those slide pad covers. It's out of print on yesasia now.
I haven't noticed how bad the circle slider thing was until I started playing Revelaitons
PDAir case is what I went with and it's been great. All I needed was a bit more size and less hard edges. Soft leather really makes all the difference for me.
RawkHawk2010
Member
^ Hmm! That does look pretty sweet...