The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are Apple’s most powerful smartphones to date. With a new variable aperture on the main camera, more powerful performance with the A20 Pro chip, bigger batteries for even longer endurance, and improved cooling, these phones are the ones to get if you’re a content creator, a tech enthusiast, or just want the best iPhone that doesn’t fold in half.

Both phones are also very durable with Apple’s Ceramic Shield 2 and the aluminum enclosure, but glass can still crack, and the metal can get scuffed if you drop it on concrete or other hard surfaces. Luckily, the case market has quickly cooked up a wide selection of covers and protective layers you can attach to your shiny new iPhone 18 Pro to safeguard against accidental damage.

We’ve sifted through them all and have found the 14 best iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max cases we’d spend our money on. Scroll down to see our selections and to pick one up for yourself.

Disclosure: This guide is equipped with affiliate links that help The Shortcut earn a small commission from your purchase. Use these links to keep the lights on at Swider Studios and help out a small team of NYC-based creators!

🍎 Best iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max cases

dbrand MNML

The MNML case is dbrand’s first ultra-thin case that’s designed to protect your device from scratches and light drops. Despite being so thin, dbrand says the case can survive drops up to 10 feet, notably high for any thin case. It also comes with a sandstone texture on the outside for extra grip, click buttons, MagSafe magnets, and four color options: black, dark blue, tan, and dark red to match the Burgundy iPhone 18 Pro.

Price: $39

dbrand: MNML case

dbrand Tank Case

The Tank case is sort of the opposite of MNML in the best way possible. It protects every aspect of your iPhone 18 Pro with a design that’s so chaotic and detailed, it could only be from dbrand. It adds plenty of grip to help you from dropping your phone, and if you still do, it’ll be fine thanks to reinforced corners and a protective lip around the screen. The buttons are metallic and super tactile, it integrates both MagSafe and Camera Control compatibility, and it wraps the cameras up to protect them from damage as well.

Price: $59.95

dbrand: Tank case

dbrand Ghost 2.0 case

The Ghost 2.0 case from dbrand is one of our favorite clear cases for any device because of its robust design. Not only does it let you show off the color of your iPhone 18 Pro, but it also gives it protection against drops up to 12 feet high. It’s super thin at 1.8mm to avoid making your phone too thick to carry around, and dbrand famously claims “you’ll die before it yellows.” I believe that - I’ve been using the Ghost 2.0 case every day on my iPhone 17 Pro Max, and it still looks brand-new.

Price: $59.95

dbrand: Ghost 2.0 case

Apple Clear Case with MagSafe

Apple’s Clear Case remains a default staple for a lot of people who upgrade to a new phone. It’s durable enough for everyday wear and tear; it fits perfectly; it works with MagSafe, and the color of your iPhone 18 Pro will shine through. Plus, this year, Apple stopped painting the entire back of the phone in white, only giving the magnets a matte white coating so that more of your phone’s paint job can be seen.

Price: $49

Amazon: Apple Clear Case

Nomad Traditional Leather Case

Our favorite leather case for the iPhone 18 Pro - by a long shot - is Nomad’s Traditional Leather case. It wraps your device in premium Horween leather and gives your phone a premium fit and finish. It’s lined with a microfiber material to protect your phone from scuffs when installing it, and it has a Camera Control button on the side. You also get MagSafe, aluminum buttons, and three color options: Black, Rustic Brown, and Saddle.

Price: $89

Nomad: Traditional Leather (18 Pro)

Nomad: Traditional Leather (18 Pro Max)

Moft MOVAS Snap Case

If you’re more of a vegan leather fan, our friends at Moft have just what you’re looking for. The MOVAS Snap Case has an ultra-light design that’s slim and feels premium, with a high-quality vegan leather exterior that’s protective and very stylish. It comes in a variety of fun colors with a stain-resistant coating to maintain its color over time, and it has built-in drop protection. It’s also slimmer than you’d expect in person.

Price: $49.99

Amazon: Moft MOVAS Snap Case

Aulumu A18

This might be one of the coolest cases we’ve seen in a long time. The Aulumu A18 comes with a durable design that protects your iPhone 18 Pro from drops and scratches, it has MagSafe and Camera Control, and it has a built-in temperature gauge, giving you a visual cue for how hot your device is while you use it. The MagSafe magnets also glow in the dark, just in case you need even more flair from this funky case.

Price: $39.99

Amazon: Aulumu A18 case

Peak Design SlimLink Loop Case

Peak Design incorporates premium fabrics and materials into every item it makes, and the same reigns true for its latest iPhone 18 Pro cases. The SlimLink Loop case comes in three material finishes: Versa Shell (a durable nylon shell), Clarino (vegan leather), or ECCO bovine leather. All three offer slim profiles that keep your phone easy to handle and protected from the elements. It also incorporates Peak Design’s magnetic-plus-mechanical mount system, as well as MagSafe compatibility. Plus, there’s a built-in loop towards the bottom to slip your finger in and make it easier to handle.

Price: $59.95

Peak Design: SlimLink Loop case

Pitaka Edge Case

If you’re shopping for a super-thin case to drape your iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max in, check out the Edge case from Pitaka. Made from military-grade aramid fiber, the case protects your phone from scuffs and dings while staying as slim and lightweight as possible. It’s available in three stylish finishes, integrates both MagSafe and Camera Control, and fits your phone like a glove.

Price: $79.99

Amazon: Pitaka Edge case

CASETiFY Impact Ring Stand Case

This clear bumper case from CASETiFY is great for those who want something protective, expressive, and versatile. It lets your iPhone 18 Pro’s color shine through on the back, with an anti-yellowing clear build that integrates MagSafe and Camera Control. You get a strong bumper design around the sides for drop protection, while the camera area has a kickstand that props your phone up for hands-free viewing.

Price: $78

Amazon: CASETiFY Impact Ring case

ESR Cyber Tough Case with Flex Stand

This super-protective case from ESR doubles down on keeping your iPhone 18 Pro safe, while also providing immense value. The case comes with 7x military-grade drop protection with an anti-slip texture on the outside. It’s available in a bunch of different colors to match your vibe, and there’s a kickstand for hands-free use. You also get MagSafe support and Camera Control. For under $30, it’s an easy pick-up if you just need great protection.

Price: $29.99

Amazon: ESR Cyber Tough Case

Apple TechWoven Case

Apple’s TechWoven case is one of our favorites for a stylish way to protect your iPhone, and the company has shipped a few new colors for the iPhone 18 Pro. There’s Chambray Blue, Black, Burgundy, Mulberry, Olive, and Taupe, all of which pair nicely with the selection of colors you can get the 18 Pro in. The case itself features a durable nylon-like design on the back with clicky buttons, camera protection, and a snug fit around your device.

Price: $59

Amazon: Apple TechWoven Case

Spigen Enzo Aramid T

This case from Spigen offers a great balance of style, protection, and price. The durable bumper around the sides will aid in protecting it against drops, while the aramid fiber finish on the back gives it a premium look. The buttons are made from diamond-cut anodized metal, there are magnets in the back for MagSafe support, and there’s even Camera Control integration. Plus, it maintains a slim and lightweight profile.

Price: $34.99

Amazon: Spigen Enzo Aramid T

UAG Pathfinder Case

If you need extreme drop protection in a thin-and-light case, check out UAG’s Pathfinder case. It’s perfect for iPhone 18 Pro users who want something that looks good, doesn’t add a ton of bulk, and ships with 18-foot drop protection. UAG’s reinforced design on the corners of the case give it atht extra layer of protection you won’t find in a lot of other cases, while the added camera protection will ensure the lenses on the back remain scuff-free. It also works with MagSafe and comes in a variety of colors.

Price: $54.95

Amazon: UAG Pathfinder (18 Pro)

Amazon: UAG Pathfinder (18 Pro Max)

Max Buondonno is an editor at The Shortcut and co-host of The Shortcut Live. He’s been reporting on the latest consumer technology since 2015, with his work featured on CNN Underscored, ZDNET, How-To Geek, XDA, TheStreet, and more. Follow him on X @LegendaryScoop and Instagram @LegendaryScoop.

• 📅 The NEOGEO AES+ will be released on September 16, 2027, offering a modern re-release of the classic console

• 🕹️ A range of accessories are available separately, including Wireless Arcade Sticks, a Wireless Gamepad, and Memory Cards

• 🥳 Most accessories come in standard and 35th Anniversary (white) editions

• 👏 All NEOGEO AES+ accessories are backward-compatible with the original NEOGEO AES console

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+ Anniversary Edition

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+ games

The NEOGEO AES+ will now be released on September 16, 2027, after suffering an unexpected delay, and it’s fair to say it’s proving popular with gamers who may have initially missed out on the coveted system.

Alongside 10 NEOGEO AES+ games and the NEOGEO AES+ Ultimate Edition, a range of accessories are also being released that you may want to consider.

I’ve rounded up the NEOGEO AES+ accessories that are well worth picking up below, along with how much they cost, plus where you can pre-order them.

NEOGEO AES+ accessories list

Depending on which version of the NEOGEO AES+ bundle you get, you’ll receive the following accessories:

• NEOGEO AES+ Original Edition: comes with a Wired Arcade Stick

• NEOGEO AES+ 35th Anniversary Edition: comes with a White Wireless Arcade Stick and White Memory Card

• NEOGEO AES+ Ultimate Edition: comes with a Wired Arcade Stick, a Wireless Arcade Stick, a Wireless Gamepad, and a Memory Card

It’s clear then, apart from the NEOGEO AES+ Ultimate Edition, the following NEOGEO AES+ accessories below will be on many gamers’ shopping lists. Oh, and all of these accessories are backward-compatible with the original NEOGEO AES console!

NEOGEO AES+ Wireless Arcade Stick - $119.99

The NEOGEO AES+ may be a 1:1 replica of the original NEOGEO AES from the 90s, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have a few modern-day improvements. The Wireless Arcade Stick is chief among them, allowing you to sit wherever you like and still enjoy the amazing controls. It costs $119.99 and is a great option for the player two in your life. It also comes with a wire, if you’d prefer to be hooked up to the console.

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+ Arcade Stick

NEOGEO AES+ Wireless Arcade Stick 35th Anniversary Edition - $119.99

Just like the NEOGEO AES+ Wireless Arcade Stick, those who purchased the 35th Anniversary Edition of the console may want to pick up a second, matching white Wireless Arcade Stick. It’s also a great option for those who have chosen the original edition but love the look of the white colorway. Despite being a 35th Anniversary Edition, the price is the same at $119.99.

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+ Arcade Stick White

NEOGEO AES+ Wireless Gamepad - $59.99

Most NEOGEO AES+ games will feel incredible to play with the Arcade Stick, but those who are hankering for a more modern control scheme will want to pick up the NEOGEO AES+ Wireless Gamepad. Featuring the classic micro-switched thumbstick and 4-button layout, the NEOGEO AES+ Gamepad is ideal for fighters, shooters and arcade classics alike. It costs $59.99, making it cheaper than controllers from Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft.

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+ Gamepad

NEOGEO AES+ Memory Card - $34.99

The NEOGEO AES+ Memory Card lets you store game data, high scores, and your progress across compatible titles. There’s no longer a lithium cell battery inside, so it won’t die on you like the old one. It’s available for $34.99.

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+ Memory Card

NEOGEO AES+ Memory Card 35th Anniversary Edition - $34.99

For those who want to celebrate NEOGEO’s 35th Anniversary or simply want a color-matching Memory Card, you can also pick up the NEOGEO AES+ Memory Card in white for the same $34.99 price tag.

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+ Memory Card White

Up next: ModRetro Chromatic review: a perfect retro revival of the Game Boy and Game Boy Color

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Adam Vjestica is The Shortcut’s Senior Editor. Formerly TechRadar’s Gaming Hardware Editor, Adam has also worked at Nintendo of Europe as a Content Marketing Editor, where he helped launch the Nintendo Switch. He also runs a retro gaming YouTube channel called Game on, boy! Follow him on X @ItsMrProducts.

• 🕹️ The NEOGEO AES+ is a $249.99 1:1 replica of the original 1991 NEOGEO AES console, offering a more accessible way to play classic titles

• 🎮 10 physical NEOGEO AES+ games will be available for $79.99 each on September 16, 2027, many of which are rare and expensive collector's items

• 👊 The launch lineup includes highly regarded fighting games like Garou: Mark of the Wolves and The King of Fighters 2002

• ⭐ The list also features iconic titles such as Metal Slug, the never-before-released on AES Shock Troopers, and the competitive shooter Twinkle Star Sprites

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+ Anniversary Edition

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+ games

The NEOGEO AES+ is making waves among retro gaming fans and collectors. The upcoming console is a 1:1 replica of the original NEOGEO AES that was released in 1991 with an incredibly high price tag of $649.99 (around $1,500 by today’s standards). At $249.99, it’s giving many gamers a second chance to experience a platform they probably missed out on.

Alongside the console, fans can look forward to playing 10 NEOGEO AES+ games, many of which are simply unobtainable in their physical form, as they’re often sold for thousands of dollars. However, thanks to the NEOGEO AES+, these games can be yours for just $89.99.

That may sound steep for games that were released decades ago and are available in digital form elsewhere, but again, you can’t pick these up in physical form unless you’re willing to re-mortgage your house. And for many retro gaming enthusiasts, nothing beats the real deal.

So what are the NEOGEO AES+ games releasing on September 16, 2027, and why is each title chosen significant? We’re rounding up all the 10 games you can play, and will update this page should more titles come to the system.

Big Tournament Golf - $89.99 (originally released in 1996)

Known internationally as Neo Turf Masters, Big Tournament Golf is a fast-paced, arcade-style golf game that focuses on fun over simulation. It boasts gorgeous-looking sprites and smooth animation, and the NEOGEO AES+ re-release includes the hidden Scotland course for the first time, which was previously exclusive to the NEO GEO CD version. Many regard Big Tournament Golf as one of the best golfing titles ever made, and complete-in-box copies go for around $10,000 to $20,000 today.

Amazon: Big Tournament Golf

Garou: Mark of the Wolves - $89.99 (originally released in 2000)

A 2D fighting game developed and published by SNK, Garou: Mark of the Wolves is the eight-entry in the Fatal Fury series and widely regarded as the best. Some fans even claim it’s the best fighting game ever made, period. With a fresh roster of 12 characters, the game is fast and responsive, and pushed the NEOGEO AES to its limits with pre-rendered 3D-style sprites, semi-transparent effects, and dynamic backgrounds.

Amazon: Garou: Mark of the Wolves

Magician Lord - $89.99 (originally released in 1991)

Magician Lord was included as a pack-in title with early NEOGEO AES bundles. It’s a run-and-gun platformer renowned for its rather crushing difficulty, as it combines pinpoint platforming with hard to read enemy attack patterns and challenging boss fights. The NEOGEO AES release included some improvements that made it more forgiving than the arcade version, such as checkpoints and slightly more health. It’s one of the more affordable games for collectors today, costing around $350-450 complete-in-box.

Amazon: Magician Lord

Metal Slug - $89.99 (originally released in 1996)

Arguably the face of the NEOGEO AES, Metal Slug was a smash-hit in the arcade. Being able to experience the frenetic run and gun action at home with zero compromises was unprecedented, and though it’s relatively short to run through, its gameplay is just as timeless today. With two-player co-op support, Metal Slug is included as part of the NEOGEO AES+ 35th Anniversary Edition, and will probably be at the top of many players’ wishlists of games to buy for the new console.

Amazon: Metal Slug

Over Top - $89.99 (originally released in 1996)

An isometric top-down racer that focuses on rally-style action, Over Top is one of the few racing games for the NEOGEO AES. The game was never released in the West, making this an appealing pick for those who may have actually owned a NEOGEO but never got the chance to play it. Oddly, Over Top is single-player only, but it has replay value thanks to its selection of cars and branching paths.

Amazon: Over Top

Pulstar - $89.99 (originally released in 1995)

A visually and technically ambitious title for the NEOGEO AES, Pulstar is a horizontal side-scrolling shoot ‘em up that’s notorious for its high difficulty level. There are eight stages to beat and it supports one to two players, either alternating or simultaneously in some modes. Pulstar was one of the first NEOGEO titles to use pre-rendered 3D graphics and is also fondly remembered for its excellent soundtrack by Harumi Fujita and Yasuaki Fujita.

Amazon: Pulstar

Samurai Shodown V Special - $89.99 (originally released in 2004)

Released in 2003, Samurai Shodown V Special is notable for being the last game released for the NEOGEO, both arcade and home platforms. It arrived 14 years after the NEOGEO AES launched in 1990, but was a controversial release as it was heavily censored at the last-minute because of the tragic 2004 Sasebo Slashing in Japan. The arcade version remained uncensored, and many will hope that this re-release will deliver the original gore-filled sword-fighting gameplay experience.

Amazon: Samurai Shodown V Special

Shock Troopers - $89.99 (never released for the NEOGEO AES)

Shock Troopers’ upcoming release for the NEOGEO AES+ is significant, as the game was never released for the original NEOGEO AES, as it remained an arcade/MVS exclusive. The game mixes run-and-gun shooting with some shoot-‘em-up elements and features two-player co-op. There are eight characters to select, and many stages have multiple branching routes, making it a game that’s well worth replaying.

Amazon: Shock Troopers

The King of Fighters 2002 - $89.99 (originally released in 2002)

Another highly revered fighting game, The King of Fighters 2002 is a 2D brawler that marked the return of 3-on-3 team battles and featured a massive roster of 44 playable characters. The US version of the game was slightly censored compared to the Japanese release, but the game is still widely praised for its detailed sprites, energetic soundtrack, and balanced gameplay.

Amazon: The King of Fighters 2002

Twinkle Star Sprites - $89.99 (originally released in 1997)

Twinkle Star Sprites is a competitive versus shooter that has strong puzzle elements, similar to Puyo Puyo. It has bright, pastel colors and manga-style characters, and was never released outside of Japan. It’s one of the rarest NEOGEO AES titles today, fetching a high price for those willing to pay it. The game is deemed a hidden gem among NEOGEO fans, and even though it has a single-player mode, its head-to-head mode is arguably the main attraction.

Amazon: Twinkle Star Sprites

Up next: Best NEOGEO AES+ accessories: what you need to get the most out of the classic console

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Adam Vjestica is The Shortcut’s Senior Editor. Formerly TechRadar’s Gaming Hardware Editor, Adam has also worked at Nintendo of Europe as a Content Marketing Editor, where he helped launch the Nintendo Switch. He also runs a retro gaming YouTube channel called Game on, boy! Follow him on X @ItsMrProducts.

• 💰 The NEOGEO AES+ Ultimate Edition is a limited-run collector’s bundle priced at $999.99

• 🕹️ It includes the numbered NEOGEO AES+ console, all 10 release games, and every accessory (total separate value of $1,364.95)

• 👉 The package offers a significant saving of $364.96 over buying the items individually

• 🔒 The Ultimate Edition is exclusively available for purchase on the Plaion Replai website

Plaion Replai: NEOGEO AES+ UItimate

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+ Anniversary Edition

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+ games

The NEOGEO AES+ is scheduled to be released on September 16, 2027, after the console suffered a delay, and there are three options for retro gamers to choose from.

The standard NEOGEO AES+ costs $249.99 and comes with a wired arcade controller, while the NEOGEO AES+ 35th Anniversary Edition comes in white, includes a copy of Metal Slug, a wireless arcade controller, and a memory card for $349.99.

However, for the hardcore NEOGEO fan, the NEOGEO AES+ Ultimate Edition is the one you’ll want, as it comes with some exclusive perks, all 10 NEOGEO AES+ games being released, and the best NEOGEO AES+ accessories. The bundle is already proving popular with collectors, so if you’re interested in nabbing the NEOGEO AES+ Ultimate Edition, my advice is to get it now or regret it later.

NEOGEO AES+ Ultimate Edition: what’s included for $999.99

For the price of $999.99, you might think the NEOGEO AES+ Ultimate Edition isn’t worth it. However, once you break it down, it’s actually a really great deal.

Not only do you get the original NEOGEO AES+ console, but it comes with all NEOGEO AES+ products, accessories, and games, all included in one premium box. The NEOGEO AES+ units included in the Ultimate Edition are first off the production line, numbered at the factory, and produced in extremely low quantities.

Here’s what you get with the NEOGEO AES+ Ultimate Edition:

• NEOGEO AES+ console (numbered) - $249.99

• Wired NEOGEO AES+ Arcade Stick (included with the console)

• Wireless NEOGEO AES+ Arcade Stick - $119.99

• Wireless NEOGEO AES+ Gamepad - $59.99

• NEOGEO AES+ Memory Card - $34.99

• All 10 NEOGEO AES+ games - $899.99

• Game-rack

As you can see, if you were to buy everything separately, you’d have to pay a grand total of $1,364.95. It means you’re saving $364.96 with the NEOGEO AES+ Ultimate Edition, and you’re also getting a numbered console and Game-rack as part of the deal.

NEOGEO AES+ Ultimate Edition: where to buy

Unlike the NEOGEO AES+ and NEOGEO AES+ 35th Anniversary Edition, which can both be purchased directly from Amazon, the NEOGEO AES+ Ultimate Edition is only available from the Plaion Replai website.

Unlike Amazon pre-orders, you’ll have to pay upfront on the Plaion Replai website, though financing options like PayPal’s ‘Pay in 3’ options are available.

NEOGEO AES+ Ultimate Edition: should you buy it?

If you’re all-in on NEOGEO’s return, then the Ultimate Edition is a pretty tempting option. Not only do you get every NEOGEO AES+ game being released, which totals to $899.99 anyway, but collectors will appreciate the fact that each console is numbered and it comes with an exclusive Game-rack to hold all the games.

Up next: Best ModRetro Chromatic games: pick up these pocket-sized titles today

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Adam Vjestica is The Shortcut’s Senior Editor. Formerly TechRadar’s Gaming Hardware Editor, Adam has also worked at Nintendo of Europe as a Content Marketing Editor, where he helped launch the Nintendo Switch. He also runs a retro gaming YouTube channel called Game on, boy! Follow him on X @ItsMrProducts.

• 🕹️ The NEOGEO AES+ is a re-engineered console, fully compatible with original NEOGEO AES cartridges, promising an authentic arcade experience with modern upgrades like low-latency HDMI

• 💰 The standard edition is priced at $249.99, with a $349.99 35th Anniversary Edition and a $999.99 Ultimate Edition also available

• 📆 Pre-orders are live now, and the console’s release date is set for September 16, 2027

• 🎮 Ten classic NEOGEO games, including Metal Slug and The King of Fighters 2002, are being re-released as physical cartridges for $89.99 each

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+ Anniversary Edition

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+ games

Plaion Replai: NEOGEO AES+

Retro gaming fans, rejoice. The legendary NEOGEO AES, the 24-bit console that delivered a full arcade experience at home back in 1990, is returning later this year as the NEOGEO AES+.

The NEOGEO AES+ isn’t an emulator, nor does it use an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). Instead, it promises to deliver an authentic experience via re-engineered ASIC chips. It’s fully compatible with original NEOGEO AES cartridges, and the console is also being supported with a full ecosystem of games and accessories.

The new NEOGEO AES+ will include quality of life upgrades, including a low-latency HDMI output, DIP switches for language selection, overclocking and display mode selection, and original AV output for CRT enthusiasts.

If you’re interested in the NEOGEO AES+, here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming console’s price, pre-order and release date, and the 10 games that will be available at launch.

NEOGEO AES+: price

The NEOGEO AES+ price starts at $249.99 for the original edition. However, a white 35th Anniversary Edition, which comes with a white copy of Metal Slug, a white wireless Arcade Stick, and a white Memory Card, is also available for $349.99.

For those who want to own the original edition console, a gamepad, arcade stick, and all 10 NEOGEO game cartridges and game rack, the NEOGEO AES+ Ultimate Edition can be yours for $999.99.

Newly released NEOGEO AES+ games will cost $89.99, and the best NEOGEO AES+ accessories include the NEOGEO AES+ wireless gamepad, which costs $59.99, the NEOGEO AES+ Arcade Stick for $119.99, and the NEOGEO AES+ memory card, which is $34.99.

NEOGEO AES+: pre-order date

You can pre-order the NEOGEO AES+ today. Pre-orders went live on April 16, shortly after the console was revealed. It’s available from Amazon, or the Plaion Replai website, and you can also pre-order the available accessories and games.

NEOGEO AES+: release date

The NEOGEO AES+ release date was originally November 12, 2026. However, it has since suffered a delay and is now set to release on September 16, 2027.

NEOGEO AES+: games

Alongside the release of the NEOGEO AES+, 10 games are being re-released as physical cartridges. The NEOGEO AES+ games available from launch are:

• Big Tournament Golf

• Garou Mark of the Wolves

• Magician Lord

• Metal Slug

• Over Top

• Pulstar

• Samurai Shodown V Special

• Shock Troopers

• The King of Fighters 2002

• Twinkle Star Sprites

Amazon: NEOGEO AES+ games

Should you buy the NEOGEO AES+?

The NEOGEO AES+ is a genuine surprise, and will probably be snapped up by retro gaming enthusiasts. It presents a fantastic opportunity to truly rediscover the NEOGEO’s library of classic games, as purchasing original NEOGEO hardware and games is extremely expensive, making it impossible for many.

The NEOGEO and its games were also expensive when it was released back in the 90s, which means many gamers couldn’t afford or missed out on some fantastic games.

The promise of the NEOGEO AES+ essentially being original hardware with a few modern tweaks is also appealing, as we’ve seen countless emulator versions of the NEOGEO with varying success.

The price is also reasonable at $249.99, as the NEOGEO cost $649.99 when it was released in 1990. To put that into perspective, that’s roughly $1,500 in today’s dollars.

The NEOGEO AES+ is an exciting product and continues the trend of retro gaming being revived. Analogue recently released its N64 remake, the Analogue 3D, and ModRetro, which released the ultimate Game Boy and Game Boy Color in the Chromatic, is also releasing its version of the N64, the M64, this year.

Up next: ModRetro Chromatic review: a perfect retro revival of the Game Boy and Game Boy Color

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Adam Vjestica is The Shortcut’s Senior Editor. Formerly TechRadar’s Gaming Hardware Editor, Adam has also worked at Nintendo of Europe as a Content Marketing Editor, where he helped launch the Nintendo Switch. He also runs a retro gaming YouTube channel called Game on, boy! Follow him on X @ItsMrProducts.

• 🎶 The Nintendo Music app lets you enjoy all of Nintendo’s iconic tunes

• 🆓 It’s free for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers

• 👍 The app features recommendations based on your Switch play history

• 👏 You’ll also find curated playlists, background play and offline play

Walmart: Switch Online + Expansion Pack

Walmart: 12 months Switch Online

Nintendo’s iconic soundtracks are now available on a dedicated smartphone and web app called Nintendo Music. It’s available to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers at no extra cost, and lets you enjoy a growing library of video game soundtracks, including music from Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, Animal Crossing, Donkey Kong and more.

New Nintendo Music soundtracks and songs are added regularly, so we've put together a complete list of every game currently available on the service. The Nintendo Music game list spans more than 40 years of Nintendo history, from Nintendo Switch 2 and Switch games to classic NES, SNES, Nintendo 64, GameCube, Game Boy and Wii titles.

We'll update this page whenever Nintendo adds a new soundtrack, so you can easily see what's new on Nintendo Music and which games are available.

What’s new on Nintendo Music?

Nintendo continues to add new tracks and famous franchises to the app, but you can find all the games and platforms included on Nintendo Music below.

Nintendo Music game list

Nintendo Switch 2

• Donkey Kong Bananza 🍌 – 229 tracks (added July 16, 2026)

• Kirby Air Riders ⭐️ – 114 tracks (added August 18, 2025)

• Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment ⚔️ – 69 tracks (added June 18, 2026)

• Mario Kart World 🚗 – 163 tracks (added June 1, 2026)

• Metroid Prime 4: Beyond 👽 – 7 tracks (added December 3, 2025)

• Star Fox 🦊 – 10 tracks (added May 7, 2026)

• Super Mario Bros. Wonder + Meetup in Bellabel Park 🐘 – 117 tracks (added March 25, 2026)

• Super Mario Party Jamboree 🎲 – 296 tracks (added November 24, 2025)

Nintendo Switch

• 51 Worldwide Games 🎯 – 37 tracks (added June 16, 2025)

• Animal Crossing: New Horizons 🎣– 403 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker 🍄– 58 tracks (added August 11, 2025)

• Fire Emblem Engage ⚔️– 182 tracks (added April 21, 2025)

• Kirby and the Forgotten Land 🩷 –114 tracks (added March 24, 2025)

• Kirby’s Dream Buffet 🎂 –115 tracks (added November 10, 2025)

• Kirby Star Allies ⭐️ – 213 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Mario & Luigi: Brothership 🤝 – 94 tracks (added January 12, 2026)

• Mario Kart 8 Deluxe 🚘– 149 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Mario Tennis Aces 🎾– 26 tracks (added April 27, 2026)

• Metroid Prime Remastered 👽 – included via Metroid Prime

• New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe 🍄– 90 tracks (added June 30, 2025)

• Paper Mario: The Origami King 👑 – 263 tracks (added February 9, 2026)

• Pikmin 4 🌸 – 153 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Pokémon Legends: Arceus 🐉 – 102 tracks (added January 27, 2025)

• Pokémon Scarlet and Violet ❤️ – 199 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Princess Peach: Showtime! 🍑 – 73 tracks (added September 29, 2025)

• Splatoon 2 🦑 – 105 tracks (added December 2, 2024)

• Splatoon 3 🦑 – 230 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury 😻 – 106 tracks (added March 9, 2026)

• Super Mario Bros. Wonder 🐘– 86 tracks (added October 31, 2024)

• Pokémon Sword & Shield 🗡️ – 138 tracks (added May 12, 2025)

• Super Mario Odyssey 👀 – 136 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door 🚪– 111 tracks (added October 6, 2025)

• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 🍃 – 211 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom 👸 – 344 tracks (added June 2, 2025)

• Tomodatchi Life: Living the Dream 🏝️ – 10 tracks (added April 15, 2026)

• Yoshi’s Crafted World 🧶 – 53 tracks (added December 8, 2025)

Wii U

• Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker 💰– 58 tracks (added August 11, 2025)

• Mario Kart 8 🚘– included via Mario Kart 8 Deluxe catalogue

• New Super Mario Bros. U 🍄– included via New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe

• Super Mario 3D World – included via Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury

• Splatoon 🦑 – 47 tracks (added May 27, 2025)

• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 🍃 – included via Breath of the Wild on Switch

Wii

• Super Mario Galaxy 🪐 – 81 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Super Mario Galaxy 2 🪐 – 72 tracks (added September 15, 2025)

• The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword 🗡️ – 186 tracks (added December 16, 2024)

• Wii Channels 📺 – 62 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Wii Fit Plus 🧘 – 90 tracks (added November 17, 2025)

• Wii Party 🎉 – 105 tracks (added December 22, 2025)

• Wii Sports 🎾 – 30 tracks (added November 11, 2024)

• Wii Sports Resort 🏝️ – 99 tracks (added June 11, 2026)

Nintendo GameCube

• Animal Crossing 🏠 – 158 tracks (added April 13, 2026)

• Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance 🔥– 64 tracks (added January 8, 2026)

• Luigi’s Mansion 👻 – 73 tracks (added April 7, 2025)

• Metroid Prime 👽 – 36 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door 🚪– 111 tracks (added October 6, 2025)

• Pikmin 🌸 – 33 tracks (added May 28, 2026)

• The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker 🌊 – 133 tracks (added January 13, 2025)

Nintendo 64

• F-Zero X 💨– 20 tracks (added November 18, 2024)

• F-Zero X Expansion Kit 💨– 6 tracks (added March 31, 2025)

• Mario Kart 64 🚘– 32 tracks (added July 14, 2025)

• Paper Mario 📃 – 148 tracks (added September 4, 2026)

• Pilotwings 64 ✈ – 30 tracks (added August 4, 2025)

• Star Fox 64 (Lylat Wars) 🦊 – 39 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Super Mario 64 🍄 – 36 tracks (added December 23, 2024)

• The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 🕰️ – 82 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Wave Race 64 🌊 – 32 tracks (added December 9, 2024)

• Yoshi’s Story! 🍎 – 49 tracks (added June 23, 2025)

Super NES

• Donkey Kong Country 🐵 – 26 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest 🙊 – 36 tracks (added November 4, 2024)

• Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong’s Double Trouble! 🐒 – 40 tracks (added January 6, 2025)

• F-Zero 💨 – 14 tracks (added March 31, 2025)

• Mario Paint 🎨 – 19 tracks (added July 28, 2025)

• Pilotwings ✈ – 21 tracks (added August 4, 2025)

• SimCity 🏙️ – 21 tracks (added August 21, 2026)

• Super Mario Kart 🚘 – 33 tracks (added January 20, 2025)

• Super Mario World 🦝 – 49 tracks (added February 3, 2025)

• Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island 🥚 – 26 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Super Metroid 👽 – 28 tracks (added March 16, 2026)

• The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past 🗡️ – 21 tracks (added March 3, 2025)

• Yoshi 🥚 – 11 tracks (added May 14, 2026)

NES

• Balloon Fight 🎈 – 11 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Baseball ⚾️ – 5 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Clu Clu Land 💎 – 8 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Devil World 😈 – 7 tracks (added July 21, 2025

• Donkey Kong 🐵 – 11 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Donkey Kong 3 🐵 – 9 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Donkey Kong Jr. 🐵👶 – 12 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Donkey Kong Jr. Math 🧮 – 8 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Dr. Mario 🩺 – 10 tracks (added March 17, 2025)

• Duck Hunt 🦆 – 10 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Excitebike ✌️– 6 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• F1 Race 🏎️ – 4 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Golf ⛳️ – 10 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Gomoku Narabe Renju 🧩– 8 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Gyromite 💣 – 10 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Hogan’s Alley 🔫 – 11 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Ice Climber 🧊 – 6 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Kid Icarus 😇 – 12 tracks (added May 19, 2025)

• Kid Icarus (Famicom Disk System) 😇 – 12 tracks (added May 19, 2025)

• Mach Rider 🏍️ – 10 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Mah-Jong 🀄️ – 7 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Mario Bros. 🍄 – 10 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Metroid 👽 – 12 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Metroid (Famicom Disc System) 👽 – 12 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Pinball 🩶 – 2 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Soccer ⚽️ – 6 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Stack-Up 🆙 – 16 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Super Mario Bros. 🍄 – 16 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Super Mario Bros. 2 🤝 – 14 tracks (added February 24, 2025)

• Super Mario Bros. 3 🎶 – 42 tracks (added March 9, 2025)

• Tennis 🎾 – 6 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Tetris 🧩 – 9 tracks (added March 17, 2025)

• The Legend of Zelda 🗡️ – 12 tracks (added April 14, 2025)

• The Legend of Zelda (Famicom Disk System) 🗡️ – 12 tracks (added April 14, 2025)

• Urban Champion 👊 – 11 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Wild Gun Man 🤠 – 12 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Wrecking Crew 👷🏻– 6 tracks (added July 21, 2025)

• Zelda II - The Adventure of Link 🗡️ – 20 tracks (added September 21, 2025)

Nintendo 3DS

• Animal Crossing: New Leaf 🍁 – 188 tracks (added November 3, 2025)

• Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker 🍄 – 58 tracks (added August 11, 2025)

• Fire Emblem Awakening ⚔️ – 92 tracks (added September 1, 2025)

• Luigi’s Mansion 👻 – Added April 7, 2025

• Mario Kart 7 🚘 – 66 tracks (added April 30, 2025)

• Pilotwings Resort ✈ – 24 tracks (added August 4, 2025)

• StreetPass Mii Plaza 👋 – 39 tracks (added February 17, 2025)

• The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds ⚔️ – 105 tracks (added May 21, 2026)

• The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D 🗡️ – 51 tracks (added July 7, 2025)

• Tomodatchi Life 🏡 – 210 tracks (added February 2, 2026)

Nintendo DS

• Dr. Kawashima’s Brain Training: How Old is Your Brain? 🧠 – 14 tracks (added November 25, 2024)

• New Super Mario Bros. 🍄 – 60 tracks (added October 27, 2025)

• The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass ⌛️ – 80 tracks (added January 19, 2026)

• Tomodachi Collection 👯 – 62 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• nintendogs 🐶 – 50 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

Game Boy Advance

• Fire Emblem: The Blazing Blade 🔥 – 100 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Golden Sun ☀️ – 54 tracks (added February 9, 2025)

• Golden Sun: The Lost Age ☀️ – 94 tracks (added September 8, 2025)

• Pokémon FireRed and Pokémon LeafGreen 🍃 – 43 tracks (added February 20, 2026)

• Wario, Inc.: Minigame Mania 🕹️ – 356 tracks (added January 26, 2026)

Game Boy

• Dr. Mario 🩺 – 8 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Kirby’s Dream Land 😴 – 15 tracks (added October 30, 2024)

• Metroid II: Return of Samus 👾 – 19 tracks (added October 20, 2025)

• Super Mario Land 🍄 – 33 tracks (added December 15, 2025)

• Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins 💰 – 35 tracks (added February 23, 2026)

• Tetris 🧩 – 18 tracks (added March 17, 2025)

• Yoshi 🥚– 18 tracks (added May 14, 2026)

Virtual Boy

• Galactic Pinball 🧑‍🚀 – 28 tracks (added July 30, 2026)

• Mario Clash 🆚 – 22 tracks (added July 30, 2026)

• Mario’s Tennis 🎾 – 20 tracks (added July 30, 2026)

• Teleroboxer 🥊 – 34 tracks (added July 30, 2026)

• Virtual Boy Wario Land 🧅 – 38 tracks (added July 30, 2026)

Nintendo Music FAQ

What is Nintendo Music?

Nintendo Music functions like your typical music streaming app, though there are some unique features. The app provides recommendations based on your Nintendo Switch play history and includes curated playlists, and each track features an in-game screenshot. If you’re worried about spoilers for games you haven’t played, there’s also an option to hide certain game art.

Is Nintendo Music free?

Nintendo Music is included with a Nintendo Switch Online membership at no additional cost. You can also access Nintendo Music during a free Nintendo Switch Online trial.

Do you need Nintendo Switch Online for Nintendo Music?

Yes. You need an active Nintendo Switch Online membership and a Nintendo Account to use Nintendo Music. You don’t need the more expensive Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership.

Can you listen to Nintendo Music on PC?

Yes. Nintendo Music is available on PC and laptop through a web browser. You can browse the Nintendo Music library without a Nintendo Switch Online membership, but you’ll need an active membership to listen to music.

Do you need a Nintendo Switch to use Nintendo Music?

No. You don’t need to own a Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2 to use Nintendo Music. You only need a Nintendo Account and an active Nintendo Switch Online membership.

Can you listen to Nintendo Music offline?

Yes. The Nintendo Music app lets you download tracks to your device so you can listen to them without an internet connection. You’ll need to download the music in advance.

Does Nintendo Music support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Yes. Nintendo Music supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, letting you listen to Nintendo game soundtracks and control playback while driving.

How often does Nintendo Music add new games?

Nintendo regularly adds new game soundtracks to Nintendo Music, although there isn’t a fixed schedule for new releases. We’ll keep our Nintendo Music game list updated whenever new soundtracks and tracks are added.

How many games are on Nintendo Music?

Nintendo Music currently features music from 148 games across 12 Nintendo platforms, with 8,918 tracks available. Nintendo regularly adds new soundtracks, and we’ll update these totals whenever the library expands.

• Up next: N64 Mature games list: every title you can play right now and expect to see

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Last updated: September 4, 2026

Adam Vjestica is The Shortcut’s Senior Editor. Formerly TechRadar’s Gaming Hardware Editor, Adam has also worked at Nintendo of Europe as a Content Marketing Editor, where he helped launch the Nintendo Switch. He also runs a retro gaming YouTube channel called Game on, boy! Follow him on X @ItsMrProducts.

The best Switch games in 2026 are suitable for players of all ages. There’s a long list of brilliant releases for Nintendo’s hybrid console, which continues to sell like hotcakes even six years on. You’ll find familiar faces from gaming history like Mario, Link, Kirby, Samus Aran and many more on Switch – but Nintendo’s console also supports fantastic third-party games and indie gems.

We’ve sunk countless hours into every game on this list. After playing and completing every one of them, we’re confident in recommending these Switch games to you. And, with the Nintendo Switch 2 being backward compatible, you can experience them all over again or for the very first time.

Like our best PS5 games and best Xbox games lists, our pick of the best Switch games won’t remain static for long. As new games are released, we’ll be sure to update this list, so you can keep on top of all the platform’s greatest titles.

As you might expect, Nintendo’s favorite portly plumber makes a few appearances on this list, but not every one of Mario’s outings is so acclaimed to earn a place. Take a peek at our round-up of the best Mario Nintendo Switch games for titles specific to the Italian hero.

If you want to take your gaming experience to the next level, don’t forget to pick up the best Nintendo Switch accessories. And you can always improve the tactile action of whatever game you’re playing with one of the best Nintendo Switch controllers.

15. Kirby and the Forgotten Land 💕

➕ Pristine platforming

➕ Charming characters and gorgeous animations

➖ A limited range of abilities

Kirby’s latest mainline adventure is his most ambitious. Forgotten Land sends the pink puffball into the realm of three dimensions for the first time, throwing you a heap of new abilities along the way. Each level is varied and creative but also stuffed full of hidden secrets that will keep you coming back for more. 

Where Forgotten Land really shines, though, is in its point-perfect platforming and concise levels that never outstay their welcome. The new Mouthful Mode, meanwhile, adds a whole lot of silliness, letting Kirby inhale cars, light bulbs, and even roller coasters to take on their powers. The two-player co-op mode also lets you bring a Waddle Dee buddy into the game, so you can find all Forgotten Land’s secrets together.

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14. Pokémon Legends: Arceus 🍬

➕ An inventive shake-up of the Pokémon series

➕ Exciting new combat

➖ Restrictive open-world exploration

Leading the Nintendo Switch’s growing pack of Pokémon games is Legends: Arceus, a bold reinvention of the staple monster-catching series. Set in the distant past, you’ll roam around the wildlands, catching untapped pocket monsters as you attempt to complete the very first Pokédex.

After years of Pokémon games that didn’t reach far from their predecessors, Arceus finally offers fans something tangibly new. Switching up the tired turn-based battle formula to allow for less structured fights, and encouraging uninterrupted exploration, this is Pokémon at its freest. Here's hoping Pokémon Scarlet and Violet follow suit.

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13. Metroid Prime Remastered 🔫

➕ An elegant, moreish puzzler

➕ Delightfully abstract art style

➖ Will only keep you occupied for so long

Samus Aran’s first 3D adventure now looks better than ever, thanks to this pristine and faithful remake of one of the best GameCube titles of all time. Shadow dropped by Nintendo, this remake is the definitive way of playing Metroid Prime, both for those returning to Tallon IV and new arrivals.

Metroid Prime follows the template of the series: Samus arrives on an unknown planet, promptly loses all of her gear, and has to gradually make her way to safety while accumulating new gadgets and weapons along the way. There’s lots of exploration, heaps of interconnected areas, and ground to retread with newly acquired weapons to unlock paths forward.

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12. ARMS 🥊

➕ Motion controls work extremely well

➕ Rock-solid online play

➖ Nintendo has stopped supporting the game

ARMS is perhaps the most underrated Nintendo Switch game of all time. The ingenious fighting game was sadly abandoned by Nintendo after receiving a couple of years of post-launch support, which added new characters and modes for players to enjoy.

And that’s a real shame because ARMS is one of those games that really needs to be played to be appreciated. The Switch’s Joy-Con controllers do an amazing job at tracking your movements as you throw powerful elongated punches at your opponent, who can either swing back in anger, dodge, or try and jump out of the way. You can also use traditional button controls if that’s more your thing.

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11. Pikmin 4 🌸

➕ Super satisfying strategy gameplay

➕ Nothing else quite like it

➖ Slow start

Pikmin 4 is a real-time strategy game that sees you take command of a group of plant-like creatures as you overcome obstacles, defeat enemies, and scavenge for treasure.

Watching your pint-sized army of Pikmin accomplish their goals and help you on your journey is extremely satisfying, and the game continues to pose fun and tricky challenges along the way. Charming, engaging and unique, don’t pass up on Pikmin 4.

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10. Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury 😸

➕ Bowser’s Fury is a short, sharp platforming adventure

➕ Combines everything that makes Mario great

➖ Slim playtime, even for completionists

While Super Mario 3D World was originally released on Wii U in 2013, it was relaunched on Nintendo Switch in 2021. A semi-3D platformer, its main gimmick is the introduction of four-player co-op, adding a dose of family fun to the Mario playbook.

But the Nintendo Switch version turned heads because of Bowser’s Fury – an additional mini adventure that comes packaged with 3D but stands completely separate from the main game. It distills all the essential components of the Mario formula into a tight caper that only takes a handful of hours to complete.

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9. Super Mario Bros. Wonder 🐘

➕ Gorgeous visuals

➕ Impeccable platforming mechanics

➖ Won’t change your mind if you don’t like 2D sidescrollers

No one is better at reinventing a tried a tested formula to make it feel brand new than Nintendo, and Super Mario Bros. Wonder is testament to that fact. New powers and an item called the ‘Wonder Seed’ turn the classic 2D side-scrolling platformer on its head, and

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a blast whether you’re going it alone or teaming up with friends, which can be done online or with friends alongside you on the couch. It might seem like just another platformer at first glance, but there’s no doubt that Wonder is one of the best Mario games for Switch.

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8. Stardew Valley 🐄

➕ Addictive gameplay mechanics

➕ A mind-boggling amount of things to do

➖ It’s a bit slow, to begin with

Imagine if you could pack up your day job, move to the country, and live off the land. Well, that’s exactly what Stardew Valley lets you do, and it’s utterly engrossing.

You’ll take your farm from an untilled mess into a thriving business, as you grow crops, tend to livestock, and integrate into the local community. Each day is filled with new challenges and responsibilities for you to work through, and it’s incredibly cathartic when you jump into bed after a hard day’s labor.

Best Buy: Stardew Valley

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Amazon: Stardew Valley

7. Metroid Dread 👽

➕ A slick return to form for 2D Metroid

➕ Cinematic boss battles

➖ Doesn’t stray far from the core Metroid formula

Metroid Dread might take Samus back to the world of two dimensions, but rather than taking a step backward, it launches the side-scrolling series to new heights.

In standard Metroid style, Dread’s intricate level design sends you back and forth across an abandoned underground facility, discovering weapons and items with which to unlock new portions of the map. It’s a love letter to the acclaimed Metroid games of the past but introduces enough fresh ideas to constantly feel exciting.

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6. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate 👊

➕ A love letter to video games

➕ Impeccable fighting mechanics and tons of content

➖ Online play isn’t always stable

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate pits some of the most iconic video game characters against each other in frantic battles. From Mario to Pac-Man and Solid Snake to Ryu, you’ll be able to live out your dream matchups as you utilize each character’s unique abilities to knock each other off-screen in a fight to the finish.

It’s unlikely that Nintendo will ever be able to top the sheer scale of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, which contains 89 playable fighters if you purchase the DLC characters. Throw in stages that span the archives of Nintendo, Sega, Square Enix, and Capcom, and you’re left with the best party game ever made. Genuinely.

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Amazon: Super Smash Bros.

5. Super Mario Odyssey 🎩

➕ Clever level design

➕ So much to see and discover

➖ The game only really begins once you “complete” it

Mario’s thrown his hat into the ring for all sorts of endeavors – be it golf, tennis, soccer, or participating in larger-than-life board games. But in Super Mario Odyssey, Mario’s hat, Cappy, has transformative powers that form a pivotal part of the game’s pristine platforming.

You’ll guide Mario on a classic crusade to save Princess Peach from the long-clawed grasp of Bowser, collecting power moons as you go to power up your starship. The more moons you collect, the more of the game’s world you can explore where you’ll discover new and exciting abilities.

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Best Buy: Super Mario Odyssey

GameStop: Super Mario Odyssey

Amazon: Super Mario Odyssey

4. Animal Crossing: New Horizons 🏠

➕ Relaxing and chill gameplay

➕ Heaps of stuff to collect

➖ Can become repetitive

The shining star of indoor gaming during the pandemic, Animal Crossing: New Horizons shouldn’t be dismissed as a has-been hit. The latest release in Nintendo’s life sim series casts you on a deserted island to build a thriving community for a bunch of anthropomorphic animal chums.

Simple, direct, and elegant, New Horizons follows the Animal Crossing template faithfully. You’ll gather resources to craft new buildings, redecorate your home with snazzy furnishings, and probably spend a good chunk of time trying to catch very specific fish. Everything from the writing to the soundtrack oozes charm, creating one of the most relaxing and accessible games on the Nintendo Switch.

Walmart: Animal Crossing New Horizons

Best Buy: Animal Crossing New Horizons

GameStop: Animal Crossing New Horizons

Amazon: Animal Crossing New Horizons

3. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe 🍄

➕ Accessible for casual gamers

➕ Mario Kart at its best

➖ Few tracks in the base game

Is any Nintendo Switch library complete without Mario Kart 8? Not by our estimation. The family-friendly kart racer jumped from Wii U to Switch way back in 2017 but feels as fresh as ever. With a bunch of new characters, items, and a revamped battle mode, this is peak mustachioed motoring.

For the full experience, grab the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Booster Course Pass. The DLC comes packaged with all Switch Online Expansion Pack memberships and will add a total of 48 new tracks to the game. So far, only 16 of those have been released, so we’re eagerly waiting for the remaining waves to launch.

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Best Buy: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

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2. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 🗡️

➕ An expansive, adventure that you can get lost in for hundreds of hours

➕ Gives you almost complete player agency

➖ Performance can be choppy

Surprised? Probably not. There’s a multitude of reasons why The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild tops so many best Nintendo Switch game lists. Nintendo's reinvention of the series’ tried-and-tested formula won the praise of critics and fans alike, as players were treated to a game that essentially gives you complete freedom.

The traditional underpinnings of great Zelda games from the past are alive and well, but it’s the ability to go anywhere, tackle things however you like, and craft an adventure that’s unique to you that truly makes Breath of the Wild an all-time classic.

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1. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom 💚

➕ Unprecedented player freedom that simply can’t be matched by other games

➕ A breathtaking amount of things to discover and places to explore

➖ Performance still leaves a little to be desired

It seems only fitting that our previous best Nintendo Switch game has been toppled by its sequel. Tears of the Kingdom expands, refines, and reimagines the rock-solid foundations of Breath of the Wild in ways few players could have imagined. The world of Hyrule feels more expansive and exciting to explore than ever before, as you take to the skies and dive into the dark depths below.

The game’s new Ultrahand ability lets you create limitless inventions and works beautifully as you solve countless physics-based puzzles that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. There’s a reason why The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is the highest-rated game of all time on Opencritic – it’s time you found out why for yourself.

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How we choose the best Switch games 🎮

We’ve played all of these picks in our top Switch games list extensively and tested countless others. You can trust that these games are our recommendations and not simply picked due to their popularity.

We played the vast majority of the best Switch games on the Nintendo Switch OLED, which offers the brightest color vibrancy and largest screen size of any Switch model. We’ve also tested a few of these games on a Switch Lite, largely out of curiosity to see how they look on a smaller screen.

We swapped between handheld and docked modes pretty frequently, using a standard Nintendo Switch Pro controller. When it comes to sound, we alternated between using the Switch’s built-in speakers and a pair of Bluetooth headphones.

Is there a Nintendo Switch game that you love that isn’t on our list? Let us know in the comments. You can also check out our Nintendo Switch vs OLED and Nintendo Switch vs Lite comparisons for a comprehensive overview of both consoles.

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Updated: September 4, 2026

• 🤝 GameShare allows Switch 2 owners to share specific games with others for co-op and multiplayer, even if they don't own the game

• 🚨 The feature works locally with both Switch 2 and original Switch systems, but only Switch 2 can share games

• 👏 A Nintendo Switch Online account is required for online GameShare, but local sharing does not need one

• 🧠 Supported games include Super Mario Odyssey, Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, and Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain

One intriguing feature about Nintendo Switch 2 is GameShare. It allows Switch 2 owners to share specific games with other Switch 2 owners for co-op and multiplayer, even if they don't own a copy themselves. This can be done locally or online.

GameShare also works with existing Nintendo Switch systems, though Nintendo Switch owners can only receive games, not share them. The feature only works locally, too, not online, so you'll need to be in the same room as someone if they have a Switch 1.

Still confused? Essentially, GameShare lets you play local co-op and multiplayer modes online or locally with another Switch 2 or Switch 1 system and uses only one copy of the game!

GameShare isn't available in all games, which is why we've listed every Nintendo Switch 2 game with GameShare support. We'll update this list when more GameShare-supported titles are announced.

Nintendo Switch 2 games with GameShare support

These are all the Nintendo Switch 2 games that support GameShare. Some titles like Super Mario Party Jamboree support local sharing only, which we’ve highlighted below.

• 🏎️ 4PGP Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

• 🔫 Bang! Bang! Bandits - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

• 🧠 Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain

• 🥔 Brotato: Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (local sharing only)

• 🍄 Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

• 🎰 Card & Casino

• 🎣 Cast n Chill - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

• 🔥 Chillin’ by the Fire

• 🍟 Chippy & Noppo - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

• 🎯 Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics

• 🍌 Donkey Kong Bananza

• 🐵 Donkey Kong Country Returns HD (local sharing only)

• ⚽ EA Sports FC 26

• 🧪 Exit Lab: 15 Rooms

• 💨 Fast Fusion

• 🍉 Fruit Mountain Party

• 🐐 Goat Simulator 3

• 🏋️‍♀️ Heave Ho 2

• 👷‍♂️ Human Fall Flat - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

• 🗡️ Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment

• 🩷 Kirby Air Riders

• ⚡️ Lynked: Banner of Spark Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

• 🎾 Mario Tennis Fever (local sharing only)

• 👊 Marvel Cosmic Invasion (local sharing only)

• 🐉 Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection (local sharing only)

• 🏀 NBA 2K26 (local sharing only)

• 🎲 Nicktoons & The Dice of Destiny

• 🚀 Orbitals

• 👨‍🍳 Overcooked! 2 - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

• 🌸 Pikmin 3 Deluxe (bingo battle mode)

• 🧟 Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted

• 🏡 Pokémon Pokopia

• 💚 Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S

• 🐖 Reanimal

• 🀄 Riichi Mahjong

• 🌳 Rotwood

• 🎵 Rushing Beat X: Return of Brawl Brothers

• 🎸 Scott Pilgrim EX

• 🦊 Star Fox

• 📖 Split Fiction (local sharing only)

• 🐷 Stardew Valley: Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

• 🤝 Storm Lancers

• 💣 Super Bomberman Collection

• 🍉 Suika Game Planet (local sharing only)

• ⭐️ Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury

• 🧢 Super Mario Odyssey

• 🎲 Super Mario Party Jamboree - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV (local sharing only, no online via GameChat)

• ⛺️ Survival Kids

• 🐢 Teenage Ninja Hero Turtles: Splintered Fate Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

• 🦖 Tokyo Scramble

• 🤼 WWE 2K26

Do you need a Nintendo Switch Online account to use GameShare?

You'll need a Nintendo Switch Online account if you want to use GameShare online as it uses GameChat. However, GameChat is free until March 31, 2026, which means you should be able to use GameShare without a Nintendo Switch Online account until that date. Local sharing doesn’t appear to require a Nintendo Switch Online account, though we’ll need to confirm that when we have the console in our hands.

• Up next: Nintendo Switch 2 120fps games: enjoy silky-smooth frame rates in these titles

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Last updated: September 2, 2026

Adam Vjestica is The Shortcut’s Senior Editor. Formerly TechRadar’s Gaming Hardware Editor, Adam has also worked at Nintendo of Europe as a Content Marketing Editor, where he helped launch the Nintendo Switch. He also runs a retro gaming YouTube channel called Game on, boy! Follow him on X @ItsMrProducts.

The Meta Horizon Plus free games for September 2026 include Warplanes: Air Corp and Prison Boss VR. They’re available for download from September 1 to September 30. New games will come to the service on the first of each month, so grab these titles before they’re gone. We’ll also list all the games in the Meta Horizon Plus Games Catalog that are free to subscribers.

Check back regularly as we’ll be rounding up all the upcoming games and those that previously came to the service.

Meta Horizon Plus free games September 2026

• Warplanes: Air Corps

• Prison Boss VR

Warplanes: Air Corps

Rule the skies in Warplanes: Air Corp, the third installment of the best-selling Warplanes series. Experience an engrossing single-player campaign, fight online, or relax and play on your terms in Free Flight mode.

Prison Boss VR

Prison Boss VR is a crafting and simulation game with one simple goal: make cash! Produce and sell contraband items in your prison cell to buy your freedom back, but don’t get caught by the guards.

Meta Horizon Plus Games Catalog

On February 28, 2024, Meta announced it would add a Games Catalog for subscribers to enjoy as part of their Meta Horizon Plus subscription. The Games Catalog includes over 100 games that will be rotated to keep things fresh, but it adds much more value to the service.

Walmart: Meta Quest 3

Best Buy: Meta Quest 3

GameStop: Meta Quest 3

Amazon: Meta Quest 3

The current titles in the Meta Horizon Plus Games Catalog include:

• Alvo

• Angry Birds VR: Isle of Pigs

• Apex Construct

• Arcade Paradise VR

• Asgard’s Wrath 2

• Assassin’s Creed Nexus

• Bartender VR Simulator

• Battlenauts

• Blacktop Hoops

• Bocce TIme!

• Cactus Cowboy - Desert Warfare

• Chess Club

• Coffee Quest VR

• Cook-Out

• Crumbling

• Cubism

• Cybrix

• Darksword: Battle Eternity

• Deisim

• Demeo

• Discovery 2

• Disc Frenzy

• Drop Dead: The Cabin

• Dumb Ways Free For All

• Dungeons Of Eternity

• Eleven Table Tennis

• Elysium Trials

• Espire 1: VR Operative

• Final Fury

• Final Overs - VR Cricket

• Fruit Ninja 2

• Galaxy Kart

• Ghosts of Tabor

• Ghost Signal: A Stellaris Game

• Gravity League: Galactic Football

• Green Hell VR

• Grimlord

• Guardians Frontline

• Human Fall Flat VR

• I Expect You To Die 3

• iB Cricket

• Iron Guard

• Laser Thief

• Lax VR

• Into Black

• Into the Radius

• In Death: Unchained

• Ironlights

• Job Simulator

• Killer Frequency

• Kingspray Graffiti

• Les Mills Bodycombat: Fitness Workouts

• Onward

• Operation Serpens

• Maestro

• Make It Stable

• Medieval Dynasty New Settlement

• Moss

• Motion Soccer Pro

• Mythic Realms

• Noun Town Language Learning

• Pets & Stuff

• Pistol Whip

• Pixel Ripped 1995

• Premium Bowling

• Project Demigod

• Puzzling Places

• Racket Club

• Red Matter

• Red Matter 2

• Retropolis 2: Never Say Goodbye

• Rogue Ascent VR

• Rogue Pinatas: VRmageddon

• Runner

• Shooty Fruity

• Space Elevator

• Starship Home

• Stupid Cars

• Squingle

• Sushi Ben

• Swarm

• Synth Riders

• Tactica

• Taiko Frenzy

• Tetris Effect: Connected

• The Climb 2

• The Curious Tale of the Stolen Pets

• The Pirate Queen with Lucy Liu

• The Secret of Retropolis

• The Thrill of the Fight

• The Wizards

• Thief Simulator VR: Greenview Street

• Tiny Archers

• Titans Clinic

• Towers and Powers

• Townsmen VR

• Ultimate Swing Golf

• Underworld Overseer

• Vibe Punch

• Walkabout Mini Golf

• War of Wizards

• Windlands 2

• Zero Caliber: Reloaded

What is Meta Horizon Plus?

Previously called Meta Quest Plus, Meta Horizon Plus is a subscription service that gives you two free VR games every month. The service operates similarly to what we’ve come to expect from PlayStation Plus, meaning you can add games to your library over time and have access to them as long as you have a running subscription.

How much does Meta Horizon Plus cost?

Meta Horizon Plus costs $7.99 per month or $59.99 for the year. It’s worth opting for the annual subscription as you can save 37% compared to paying monthly.

Is Meta Horizon Plus good value?

On the face of it, yes. Like the PS Plus free games PlayStation gamers enjoy and Xbox Game Pass, the value proposition is very tempting but there are a couple of factors to consider. Some months may include games you’ve already bought, making your monthly spending seem like a waste. The cost of each game given away will also vary. However, it’s more than likely that more than $59.99 of VR games will be given away in the 12 months, so the value is certainly there.

Which platforms is Meta Horizon Plus available on?

You can sign up for Meta Horizon Plus and enjoy free games on the Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest Pro, Meta Quest 3S and the Meta Quest 3 headset. It’s only available on the Meta Quest Store, too.

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Can I keep Meta Horizon Plus free games forever?

Yes, as long as you have an active Meta Horizon Plus subscription. If your membership expires, you’ll need to sign back up to play the games you currently downloaded. You’ll only be able to play the games you redeemed during your subscription as well, so don’t expect access to everything you may have missed.

What were the past Meta Horizon Plus free games?

If your subscription lapsed or you just want to get a good idea of the types of games that have come to Meta Horizon Plus before you subscribe, here’s a list of all the free Meta Horizon Plus games you may have missed.

Meta Horizon Plus free games list August 2026

• Wreckin’ Raccoon

• Iron Rebellion

Meta Horizon Plus free games list July 2026

• Gun Club VR

• Phantom: Covert Ops

Meta Horizon Plus free games list June 2026

• Trombone Champ: Unflattened!

• Maskmaker

Meta Horizon Plus free games list May 2026

• A Fisherman’s Tale 2

• Ancient Dungeon

Meta Horizon Plus free games list April 2026

• Vendetta Forever

• The House of Da Vinci VR

Meta Horizon Plus free games list March 2026

• Arizona Sunshine Remake

• The Pirate: Republic of Nassau

Meta Horizon Plus free games list February 2026

• Glassbreakers: Champions of Moss

• Clay Hunt VR

Meta Horizon Plus free games list January 2026

• Ultrawings 2

• Superhot VR

Meta Horizon Plus free games list December 2025

• Tactical Assault VR

• Smash Drums

Meta Horizon Plus free games list November 2025

• Moss: Book II

• UBOAT: The Silent Wolf

Meta Horizon Plus free games list October 2025

• Ghost Town

• Vampire: The Masquerade - Justice

Meta Horizon Plus free games list September 2025

• MLB Home Run Derby VR

• Hubris

Meta Horizon Plus free games list August 2025

• The Room VR: A Dark Matter

• Starship Troopers: Continuum

Meta Horizon Plus free games list July 2025

• Among Us 3D

• Block Buster

Meta Horizon Plus free games list June 2025

• Warplanes: Battle over Pacific

• Border Bots VR

Meta Horizon Plus free games list May 2025

• Pavlov Shack

• Kill It With Fire VR

Meta Horizon Plus free games list April 2025

• Breachers

• Thrasher

Meta Horizon Plus free games list March 2025

• The Light Brigade

• Golf+

Meta Horizon Plus free games list February 2025

• PowerWash Simulator VR

• Budget Cuts Ultimate

Meta Horizon Plus free games list January 2025

• Real VR Fishing

• Dragon Fist: VR Kung Fu

Meta Horizon Plus free games list December 2024

• Moss

• I Expect You To Die: The Spy and the Liar

Meta Horizon Plus free games list November 2024

• Warplanes: WW1 Fighters

• Spacefolk City

Meta Horizon Plus free games list October 2024

• Down the Rabbit Hole

• Zombieland: Headshot Fever

Meta Horizon Plus free games list September 2024

• Zero Caliber: Reloaded

• We Are One

Meta Horizon Plus free games list August 2024

• Myst

• Ragnarock

Meta Horizon Plus free games list July 2024

• The Last Clockwinder

• Creed: Rise to Glory - Championship Edition

Meta Horizon Plus free games list June 2024

• Stride

• Warhammer 40,000: Battle Sister

Meta Horizon Plus free games list May 2024

• Stones of Harlath

• Vacation Simulator

Meta Horizon Plus free games list April 2024

• Drop Dead: Dual Strike Edition

• Floor Plan 2

Meta Horizon Plus free games list March 2024

• Contractors

• Shadow Point

Meta Horizon Plus free games list February 2024

• I Expect You to Die

• DYSCHRONIA: Chronos Alternate

Meta Horizon Plus free games list January 2024

• Nock: Bow + Arrow Football

• Richie’s Plank Experience

Meta Horizon Plus free games list December 2023

• The Thrill of the Fight

• Swarm

Meta Horizon Plus free games list November 2023

• NFL Pro Era

• Angry Birds VR: Isle of Pigs

Meta Horizon Plus free games list September 2023

• Onward

• Little Cities

Meta Horizon Plus free games list September 2023

• Red Matter

• A Fisherman’s Tale

Meta Horizon Plus free games list August 2023

• Walkabout Mini Golf

• Mothergunship: Forge

Meta Horizon Plus free games list July 2023

• Pistol Whip

• Pixel Ripped 1995

Subscribe now

Last updated: September 1, 2026

Adam Vjestica is The Shortcut’s Senior Editor. Formerly TechRadar’s Gaming Hardware Editor, Adam has also worked at Nintendo of Europe as a Content Marketing Editor, where he helped launch the Nintendo Switch. He also runs a retro gaming YouTube channel called Game on, boy! Follow him on X @ItsMrProducts.

It’s getting harder to whittle down the best PS5 games you should play in 2026 – which is a good thing, really. We’ve played hundreds of titles since Sony launched its console in November 2020, and thankfully, there’s something that everyone can enjoy.

Our top PS5 games list is here to help you decide which video games are worthy of your time and hard-earned money. They cover a range of genres, including platformers, story-driven adventures, RPGs, and racing games.

Unlike most of the best Xbox games, most of the recommendations below are exclusive to PS5, developed specifically to take full advantage of the PlayStation 5’s unique feature set.

Many of our favorite titles are also available to download via Sony’s PlayStation Plus Premium and Extra service, though some first-party titles like Gran Turismo 7 are still missing.

Oh, and don’t forget to check out the best PS4 games to play on PS5, too. Thanks to the PlayStation 5 being backward compatible, there’s still a fantastic range of last-gen titles to enjoy, many of which have been enhanced.

The best PS5 games in 2026 👇

15. Hogwarts Legacy 🧙‍♀️

➕ A stunning representation of the Wizarding World

➕ Excellent voice acting and combat

➖ Too many challenges and menial tasks to complete

Hogwarts Legacy is not only one of the best Harry Potter games ever made, but it’s also a fantastic open-world RPG game in its own right.

The fantastical setting and attention to detail throughout is incredibly impressive, with famous locations from the series recreated with aplomb. Whether you’re running around Hogwarts or flying on your broom outside – the game brings all the places you know and love from the books and films to life in a new and exciting way.

While the game does suffer from the usual pitfalls of open-world games, specifically by giving you one too many things to do, the story and combat are engaging enough to keep you entertained during the mainline quests.

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Best Buy: Hogwarts Legacy

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Amazon: Hogwarts Legacy

14. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart 🔧

➕ Sumptuous graphics

➕ Great cast of characters

➖ Plays it a bit too safe

It may sound cliché, but Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is as close as you’ll get to an interactive Pixar film on the PS5. If you want a game that shows off just what the PlayStation 5 console is capable of from a graphical perspective, there’s no better candidate than Rift Apart. Thankfully, it’s not just beautiful to behold – it’s also a blast to play.

In typical Ratchet and Clank fashion, you have an arsenal of zany weapons at your disposal to unleash havoc with. From rocket launchers to firing off mechanical attack robots, taking down hordes of enemies never gets old, thanks to the game’s whacky weaponry.

Throw in some collectibles and some genuinely funny dialogue, and it’s easy to see why the duo of Ratchet & Clank remains a firm fan favorite with PlayStation players.

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Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart is free with PlayStation Plus Premium and PlayStation Plus Extra.

13. Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection 🪙

➕ Incredible 3D audio

➕ Two games for the price of one

➖ Can get a little repetitive

Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection is one of the best PS5 games because it remasters two of the greatest PS4 games of all time. Both Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End and Uncharted: The Lost Legacy have been given a pleasing makeover, bringing 4K resolution, a silky-smooth performance mode, and a high frame rate mode for players to enjoy on Sony’s new console.

The games also benefit from amazing 3D audio support, which needs to be heard to be believed. Check out the best PS5 headsets if you want to get the most out of Uncharted’s spectacular audio.

If you’re a newcomer to the Uncharted series or simply want to relive the epic adventures again on PS5, The Legacy of Thieves Collection is a must.

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Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection is free with PlayStation Plus Premium and PlayStation Plus Extra.

12. Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade ☁️

➕ An ambitious remake of one of the best JRPGs of all time

➕ Reimagined for a new audience

➖ New changes won’t suit everyone

Final Fantasy 7 changed the fortunes of Japanese RPGs in the West and holds a special place in many gamers’ hearts. When Square Enix announced it would be remaking one of its most cherished games in 2015, few would have thought it would take over five years to arrive. However, it was worth the wait.

Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade is one of the most ambitious remakes we’ve ever played and overhauls practically every aspect of the PS One classic. Remarkably, the game feels innately familiar yet completely new, which is quite an achievement.

Some diehard fans might be turned off by the game’s switch to real-time action combat, but it works wonderfully. Clever changes to the game’s missions and story are also welcome.

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Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade is free with PlayStation Plus Premium and PlayStation Plus Extra.

11. Death Stranding: Director’s Cut 📦

➕ Unique concept

➕ Riveting story

➖ Gameplay is rather polarizing

From the genius mind of Hideo Kojima, Death Stranding is his most bizarre creation yet. The game sees you delivering supplies to various outposts and overcoming any obstacles that stand in your way. This can be as simple as hiking across some rough terrain or as tricky as avoiding the game’s supernatural enemies, the ‘BTs.’

That might sound as dull as dishwater to some, but it’s not the destination that’s important – it’s the journey. There’s something undeniably captivating about Death Stranding’s world and its characters that it’s easy to lose hours at a time as you trudge across the game’s beautiful landscapes.

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Death Stranding: Director’s Cut is free with PlayStation Plus Premium and PlayStation Plus Extra.

10. Demon’s Souls 🏰

➕ One of the best-looking games on PS5

➕ Punishingly difficult yet immensely rewarding

➖ Patience required

Sure, Demon’s Souls was a PS5 launch title released more than three years ago, but it’s still one of the most visually striking PlayStation 5 games on the system. Bluepoint Games has done an outstanding job of remaking the classic PS3 title from 2009, and the game stays true to the original design – warts and all.

Spectacular lighting, super-fast load times, and epic boss battles are some of the key highlights of the PS5 remake, but the tried-and-tested gameplay ensures Demon’s Souls is just as compelling today as it was all those years ago. Be warned, though — it’s a frequently brutal and punishing affair.

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Demon’s Souls is free with PlayStation Plus Premium and PlayStation Plus Extra.

9. Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales 🕷️

➕ Swinging through Brooklyn feels incredible

➕ Blazing-fast load times

➖ Feels more like an expansion than a true sequel

Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales for PS5 doesn’t quite surpass the web-slinger’s first entry on PS4, but it’s still comfortably one of the best superhero games ever made and many will prefer its heartfelt story to the rather scattergun plot of Spider-Man 2.

Thanks to the PS5’s super-fast SSD, Spider-Man: Miles Morales has practically no load times, and the game’s vast open-world launches in just a few seconds. The power of Sony’s new console also adds ray-traced reflections to the mix for some visual eye candy, making it one of the first PS5 games we recommend buying.

Walmart: Spider-Man: MM Ultimate Edition

Best Buy: Spider-Man MM Ultimate Edition

Amazon: Spider-Man MM Ultimate Edition

Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales is free with PlayStation Plus Premium and PlayStation Plus Extra.

8. Sifu 👊

➕ Makes you feel like a kung fu master

➕ Nothing else quite like it

➖ Some boss battles feel unfair

If you’ve ever watched any of the great kung fu movies and dreamed of a video game equivalent, Sifu is as close as it gets. As a martial arts master, you’ll take down enemies with a flurry of expertly placed punches, dodge their attacks, and counter with consummate ease.

What makes Sifu so unique is its aging mechanic. Your character gets older every time you die, giving you more power but less health overall. Once you reach the age of 71, it’s all over, so you’ll need to perfect each level if you’re to make it to the final boss while still in your prime. Challenging, addictive, and super satisfying to play, Sifu is an exceptional PlayStation 5 game.

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Amazon: Sifu

7. Returnal 👩‍🚀

➕ Satisfying gameplay loop

➕ Free DLC adds co-op and new challenges

➖ Skill level could hamper your fun

A new twist on the roguelike genre, Returnal is another game that demands your attention. And that’s precisely why we’ve ranked it as one of the best PS5 games for 2022. It utilizes almost every aspect of the PlayStation 5’s unique feature set to great effect: such as its immersive 3D audio and smart use of the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers.

You’ll need to survive against countless swarms of enemies in an ever-changing world and use alien weaponry and artifacts to give yourself a fighting chance of survival. However, if you die, you’ll have to start all over again. There’s a constant risk and reward element to the gameplay which will keep you coming back for more.

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Amazon: Returnal

Returnal is free with PlayStation Plus Premium and PlayStation Plus Extra.

6. Elden Ring 💍

➕ A triumph in open-world game design

➕ Staggering amount of replay value

➖ Can be overwhelming

Elden Ring sets a new bar for open-world game design. It brings the impeccable combat mechanics of the Dark Souls series to a sandbox full of the same terrifying foes that can end your progress with the swing of a weapon. It retains the series’ no-nonsense difficulty, but you’re free to tackle the game your way instead of being funneled into a potential dead end. That opens up so many more opportunities in a genre that has a habit of rewarding curious minds.

FromSoftware’s signature brand of fairly obtuse storytelling won’t be for everyone, mind you. Nor will the fact that the game can feel needlessly unfair. However, stick with it – what awaits is a fantastical adventure that critics universally adored. There’s a reason Elden Ring was so many people’s game of the year.

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Amazon: Elden Ring

5. Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut 🏯

➕ Expansive DLC island to explore

➕ Gorgeous from every angle

➖ Not a free upgrade for PS4 owners

Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut makes one of the best games on PS4 even better on PS5. If you’ve been waiting years for a convincing samurai game that combines an emotional story with razor-sharp combat, you owe it to yourself to join Jin on his perilous journey to save Tsushima from a Mongol invasion.

The Director’s Cut includes Iki Island, a brand-new area with new story content, engaging sidequests, and a slew of collectibles to discover. If you’ve yet to experience Jin’s courageous and perilous journey, there’s never been a better time than now.

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Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut is free with PlayStation Plus Premium and PlayStation Plus Extra.

4. Gran Turismo 7 🚘

➕ A fantastic return to form for the racing sim series

➕ DualSense controller makes every car feel unique

➖ Some cars feel unobtainable without microtransactions

Gran Turismo 7 puts you in the driver’s seat of some of the world’s best cars but, thanks to the PS5, you feel like you’re there. The DualSense controller mimics every gear change and the roar of a car’s engine to great effect. You also feel resistance in the triggers when you press down on the throttle or brakes, and it’s an incredibly convincing sensation.

Unlike GT Sport, which was notably bereft of content at launch, Gran Turismo 7 has a litany of modes for players to dive into and free updates continue to add more content to the game post-launch. It’s one of the top PSVR 2 games you need to play, too.

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3. Astro’s Playroom 🤖

➕ Completely free and a celebration of PlayStation’s history

➕ A showcase for the DualSense controller

➖ Lack of boss battles

One of the best features of the PS5 console is the clever DualSense controller from Sony. Even after two years of using the PlayStation 5, it’s remarkable how much I still enjoy the features of the DualSense. The new haptic feedback and adaptive triggers add an extra level of immersion to games, which I never knew I needed, and it’s hard to go back to a standard controller once you’ve experienced what the DualSense can provide.

Astro’s Playroom shows off the potential of these two technologies in the most brilliant of ways, then, and it’s a must-play if you’re booting up your PS5 for the first time. The game uses the controller to replicate feelings and sensations, like wading through a sandstorm, jumping into the water, firing off a Gatling gun, or scampering across metal structures. I guarantee it will leave you grinning from ear to ear.

2. Astro Bot 🤖

➕ Astro Bot’s abilities are super satisfying

➕ Ingenious level design and epic boss battles

➖ Shorter than some would like

Like Astro’s Playroom before it, Astro Bot delivers innovative gameplay and is packed with grin-inducing ideas. The game builds upon everything we love about Astro’s Playroom but introduces epic boss battles, a generous variety of planets to explore, and some truly excellent 3D platforming.

It’s a game that makes you remember everything that makes PlayStation such a special brand, and will likely make older gamers feel particularly nostalgic as you discover all the tributes hidden inside. This is a game that rivals the very best Nintendo has to offer, which is the highest praise one can give.

Read our full Astro Bot review for more.

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1. Stellar Blade 😍

➕ Sensational visuals and rock-solid performance

➕ Satisfying combat and a captivating story

➖ Cumbersome item selection

Stellar Blade is a showcase title for PlayStation 5, taking full advantage of the console’s hardware, unique DualSense controller, and super-fast load times. The game’s incredible graphics and extremely polished presentation are the best we’ve seen, and the satisfying combat makes every enemy encounter a joy to overcome.

It feels like a breath of fresh air in an industry that is overly focused on monetization, often launches games that are full of bugs or game-breaking issues, and has forgotten how to make a compelling video game. Stellar Blade will keep you hooked from start to finish as it’s the best PS5 game we’ve played this generation.

Read our full Stellar Blade review for more.

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How we choose the best PS5 games 🎮

The Shortcut Team has played countless games on PlayStation 5 and has hands-on experience with every title on our best PS5 games list. That means you can trust our list, as these are all our personal recommendations.

We also play every PS5 game on the best setup possible, such as using an LG OLED which has HDMI 2.1, VRR, and HDR support. It means we can test every PS5 display feature, like playing PS5 120fps games.

We’ll continue to update our top PS5 games list in the future with new releases, so check back for more recommendations when you’re looking for something new to play.

If you still can’t decide between the PS5 Disc vs Digital console, we’re here to help you make the right call.

Has your PS Plus membership expired? Use our exclusive PlayStation Plus discount code for $10 off PS Plus Essential, which gives you access to three PS Plus free games per month.

Subscribe now

Last updated: August 17, 2026

• ⌚️ The Apple Watch Ultra 3 might be the best beach watch you can get

• 💪 Its durable design and long-lasting battery life make it ideal for long summer days

• 🏊 You can track your swimming workouts, go diving, and more with it, too

• 🏖️ Here are 8 ways it makes for a great companion on the coastline

• 🖐️ Also: 5 of my favorite Apple Watch Ultra 3 bands for summer

Every summer, I try to spend as much time on the beach as I can (at least for someone who lives in Manhattan). And because I’m a nerd, I always have to have some gadget on me to keep me connected when I step away from my desk and “unplug” on the shoreline. This summer, that gadget’s been the Apple Watch Ultra 3.

I’ve been wearing it ever since Apple sent it over for me to review, and it’s easily my favorite smartwatch I’ve ever used. Not only does it look good, last longer than any other Apple Watch, and help me stay connected on the go, but it also acts as the perfect summertime companion in - admittedly - obvious ways.

Here are eight features that make the Ultra 3 my pick for anyone who spends their summer near the water.

• More: Apple Watch Ultra 3 review: a meaningful upgrade with longer battery life

Amazon: Apple Watch Ultra 3

Best Buy: Apple Watch Ultra 3

Walmart: Apple Watch Ultra 3

AT&T: Apple Watch Ultra 3

Verizon: Apple Watch Ultra 3

🌊 It shrugs off the ocean without a second thought

The Ultra 3 is rated for 100 meters of water resistance, which means it’s built for scuba diving, not just getting splashed by a wave. For a beach day, that’s total overkill in the best way. I’ve worn mine boogyboarding, kayaking, and just floating around for hours, and I never once thought about taking it off.

Water Lock kicks on automatically once it detects water, locking the display so you don’t accidentally trigger something with a wet screen, then it ejects the water out of the speaker when you’re done. It’s a convenient touch that helps make it easier to have the Ultra 3 on your wrist 24/7, even during summertime adventures..

🔋 Battery life that survives an entire beach day (and then some)

I talked about this at length in my review, but the battery bump on the Ultra 3 is a genuinely big deal for anyone spending a full day outside. Apple increased it to 42 hours thanks to the S10 chip, up from 36 hours on the Ultra 2. At a music festival in Florida, I wore mine at high brightness all day while tracking multiple walks, and it never dipped below 65% by bedtime. A beach day is a lot less demanding than a festival, so you can realistically leave the house in the morning, spend all day in the sun and water, and still have plenty left for that night out.

One thing of note: turn off the Depth app if you don’t plan on scuba diving or embarking on other deep-sea excursions. It tends to drain the battery fast, and by default, it turns on when you submerge the Apple Watch. I flicked it off, and my battery life has been stellar ever since.

☀️ You can actually read the screen in direct sunlight

Beach glare can be brutal on most smartwatch displays, but the Ultra 3 doesn’t have that problem. The display can hit up to 3,000 nits, which helps it stay perfectly visible in the direct sunlight. The display also grew compared to the Ultra 2, going from 1.84 square inches to 1.93 square inches. Combine the size bump with the brightness, and you get a watch you can glance at on the sand at high noon and immediately see your heart rate, the time, or how your swim workout is going.

At certain angles, it can be tough to see the screen simply because of physics, but for the most part, you won’t have an issue seeing its screen

🧊 Built to handle the heat, not just the water

The Ultra 3 carries military-grade durability that’s built to withstand extreme temperatures, which matters more than people think for a beach trip.

Between the sun beating down on you and the watch baking on a towel while you’re in the water, it can be a recipe for disaster for a smartwatch that isn’t properly equipped. The Ultra 3, on the other hand, is totally unfazed. It can handle extreme conditions unlike many smartwatches on the market, making it ideal for having in the hot sun all day before chilling out in the AC when you get home.

🏊 Dedicated tools for tracking time in the water

Beyond just surviving the ocean, the Ultra 3 is genuinely good at tracking what you do in it. The Depth app lets you measure depth if you’re snorkeling or free diving, and the Workout app will let you track your swim with surprising precision. If you’re the type who wants to see how big an impact swimming and other aquatic activities can have on your fitness goals, the Ultra 3 is the way to go.

🛰️ Safety features for when the beach is remote

Not every beach has full cell service, especially more secluded shorelines and beaches that feel like walking across the Sahara Desert. The Ultra 3’s Emergency SOS via Satellite got an upgrade this generation with stronger antennas, so you can send and receive messages over satellite when you’re out of range. You can also share your location with someone so they know where you’re at while you’re exploring. I mentioned this in my review as one of the more slept-on upgrades, and it’s exactly the kind of feature you don’t think about until you actually need it on a remote stretch of coastline.

🧭 Waypoint and Backtrack help you find your way back

If you can’t remember what direction you took during your walk along the shore or need to remember where you parked your car, the Ultra 3 has your back.

Waypoint lets you drop a pin right from the Action button so you can navigate straight back to your beach chairs, your vehicle, or wherever you started. Backtrack does something similar in the background, retracing your route automatically. Neither feature is beach-specific on paper, but in practice they’re perfect for exactly this kind of trip, especially if you’re exploring a coastline you don’t know well or walking a long stretch of sand to find the quietest spot.

🔊 A siren loud enough to actually get noticed

This one doesn’t come up often, but it’s worth knowing about. The Ultra 3 has a built-in 86-decibel siren that can be triggered from the Action button, and it’s audible from up to 600 feet away. It’s designed for emergencies on trails, but it works just as well on a beach, especially somewhere with fewer people around or rougher water conditions. It’s not something you’ll use on a normal day at the shore, but it’s the kind of feature that matters exactly when you need it most, and it’s one more reason the Ultra 3 feels built for the outdoors instead of just tolerating it.

There’s never been a smartwatch that fits my lifestyle more than the Apple Watch Ultra 3. With its sharp looks, extreme durability, and vast array of features, it’s perfect for days at the office, hours at the gym, and fun afternoons on the beach. Are there other smartwatches that can do these things, too? Absolutely. But I’m an Apple user, and the fact it can synchronize with the rest of my stuff is the cherry on top, making the Ultra 3 a permanent addition to my everyday carry.

🩴 5 bands that are perfect for beach days

If you’re gonna take your Ultra 3 to the beach, chances are you need a band that’s ready for anything. I’ve been testing a lot of them lately, and here are the five I recommend picking up.

Apple Ocean Band. Apple’s own answer to beach and pool days, built from a high-performance elastomer with a tubular design that lets water flow right through it instead of getting trapped. The titanium buckle won’t corrode, and it stretches for a fit that stays secure no matter how much you’re moving around in the water.

Amazon: Apple Ocean Band

Nomad Rocky Point. This is one of the best Ultra bands I’ve personally used. It’s thick, durable, completely waterproof, and comfortable enough to wear all day without thinking about it. It comes in six colors, and the titanium hardware matches the Ultra 3 nicely.

Nomad: Rocky Point Band

UAG Active Watch Strap. If you surf or spend a ton of time in the water, this one’s built for you. It’s made from a breathable fabric inspired by a surf leash, uses velcro for a quick secure fit, and has a stainless steel buckle so it won’t budge no matter how rough the water gets.

Amazon: UAG Active Watch Strap

Casetify Bounce Odyssey. For anyone who wants some personality on their wrist, this band pairs with a protective case that gives your Ultra 3 old-school G-Shock vibes. It’s breathable, fully water-resistant, and comes in a handful of fun colorways if you want your watch to stand out on the sand.

Amazon: Casetify Bounce Odyssey Band

Nomad Sport Band. This breathable, lightweight band from Nomad is less bulky than the Rocky Point, with a simple tuck-and-slot closure and a variety of color options. I like wearing it to the beach because it keeps my wrist cooler, and sometimes, it’s nicer to have something a bit lighter on your wrist, especially considering how bulky the Ultra 3 can feel for some.

Nomad: Sport Band

• More: Best Apple Watch Ultra 3 bands: stylish, adventure-ready, and comfortable all day

Max Buondonno is an editor at The Shortcut and co-host of The Shortcut Live. He’s been reporting on the latest consumer technology since 2015, with his work featured on CNN Underscored, ZDNET, How-To Geek, XDA, TheStreet, and more. Follow him on X @LegendaryScoop and Instagram @LegendaryScoop.

Samsung has done nothing short of impress us with the Galaxy Z Fold 8. The device, which takes on a much different form factor than what we’re used to from the company, has reinvigorated excitement in the foldable category in ways we didn’t see coming. And with a slightly lower price than last year’s Fold 7, the Fold 8 has made Samsung’s flexible phones appealing enough for more people to be interested in ditching their normal phones for one that bends in half.

• More: You should buy these Galaxy Z Fold 8 cases: 11 picks, according to experts

If you’re one of the many people who have decided to upgrade to the Galaxy Z Fold 8, chances are you’ll want some fresh accessories. The Fold 8 is fun on its own, but pair it with the right gear, and you’ve got yourself an even more exciting setup.

Here are the 8 accessories we highly recommend picking up for your shiny new Galaxy Z Fold 8.

Disclosure: We use affiliate links for just about everything on The Shortcut that highlights a product. It helps us earn a small commission to keep the lights on in Swider Studios.

Galaxy Z Fold 8 accessories you should buy

ZAGG Crystal Palace Snap Case

Our go-to case for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is the Crystal Palace Snap case from ZAGG. Its clear design lets the vibrant color of your Fold 8 shine through, while its enhanced durability means you can drop it and not worry about it shattering. Plus, it protects the hinge from external debris. The most important part? It gives the Fold 8 MagSafe support, which it doesn’t come with on its own.

Price: $79.99

Best Buy: ZAGG Crystal Palace

UAG Magnetic Ring Stand

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is the ultimate media machine on the go, and if you want to enjoy a movie or show hands-free, we recommend getting a kickstand so you can prop it up on a desk or table. UAG’s Magnetic Ring Stand (which will only work with a magnetic Z Fold 8 case) will do the trick. It comes with a 360-degree rotating kickstand that can be adjusted for virtually any angle. It’s made out of metal, too, and comes in a wide variety of colors.

Price: $34.95

Amazon: UAG Magnetic Ring Stand

Spigen GlasTR EZ FIT Pro Screen Protector

While you can’t get a screen protector for the flexible display, you should get one for the cover screen to avoid accidental damage. Spigen’s GlasTR EZ FIT Pro screen protector is our go-to for any devices we want to protect, and it’s perfect for the Z Fold 8. Not only does it offer scratch resistance and drop protection, but it also comes with a full kit that makes it super easy to install. Plus, you get two in the box in case you screw up the first time.

Price: $19.99

Amazon: Spigen GlasTR EZ Fit Pro

Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro

Everyone needs a good pair of earbuds to jam out to music on the go, and Samsung’s own Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are a great pairing with the Galaxy Z Fold 8. With full, bright sound quality, great noise cancellation, a comfortable design, and up to seven hours of battery life, these buds are perfect for listening to your favorite albums, watching movies, and interacting with Gemini or Bixby. Plus, they sync across all of your Samsung devices automatically for easy switching.

Price: $249.99

Samsung: Galaxy Buds 4 Pro

Amazon: Galaxy Buds 4 Pro

Best Buy: Galaxy Buds 4 Pro

Belkin Qi2.2 25W Magnetic Wireless Charging Station

Belkin’s Qi2.2 wireless charging stand is ideal for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 not just because you can charge your phone at full speed, but also because you can charge your Galaxy Buds and Galaxy Watch, too. This stand is different from others in that you can swap out the watch charger for one that supports the Galaxy Watch. The mini wireless charging pad also offers plenty of space for your favorite earbuds, like the Buds 4 Pro.

Price: $64.99

Amazon: Belkin Qi2.2 Charging Station

Statik MagStack Pro 100W USB-C Cable (6ft)

My personal favorite USB-C cable has to be the Statik MagStack Pro. It’s not only great for your Galaxy Z Fold 8 but all of your USB-C devices, especially since it supports up to 100W charging. It features a robust, durable design that’s magnetic, so when it comes time to wind it up and pack it in your bag, it’ll stay neat and not get tangled up. The Z Fold 8 comes with a charging cable in the box, but it’s not going to be nearly as nice as this one.

Price: $24.99

Amazon: Statik MagStack Pro Cable

Belkin 67W GaN USB-C Charger Block

If you’re going to use a powerful charging cable for your Galaxy Z Fold 8, you need a powerful charging brick to go with it. Belkin’s 67W GaN USB-C Charger Block is the perfect complement since it supports up to 67W performance, giving you plenty of headroom for the Fold 8’s 45W charging. It ships with a retractable cable and a separate USB-C port for charging two devices at once, and it comes with a very compact design that makes traveling easier than ever.

Price: $39.99

Amazon: Belkin 67W GaN Charger

Anker Prime Qi2 25W Wireless Car Charger Mount

If you want to keep your Galaxy Z Fold 8 charged up on the road, check out Anker’s Prime Qi2 25W magnetic car charger. This charger has a slim design that’s optimal for the Fold 8 and where its charging coils are, it supports up to 25W wireless charging, and it can keep your phone cool with its AirCool design and technology. You get the necessary adapter and cable in the box, too, so you don’t need to worry about buying one separately.

Price: $89.99

Amazon: Anker Prime Qi2 25W Car Charger

• Up next: Galaxy Z Fold 8 review in progress: five days with Samsung’s best foldable phone

Max Buondonno is an editor at The Shortcut and co-host of The Shortcut Live. He’s been reporting on the latest consumer technology since 2015, with his work featured on CNN Underscored, ZDNET, How-To Geek, XDA, TheStreet, and more. Follow him on X @LegendaryScoop and Instagram @LegendaryScoop.

• 🎮 The ModRetro M64 is a modern N64 revival console featuring 4K output

• 🎨 It launches with four translucent color options: purple, green, red and clear, reminiscent of the original N64

• 🙌 ModRetro founder Palmer Luckey plans to release over a dozen colors via swappable, low-cost body kits later on

👏 The M64 controllers also come in matching swappable shells (purple, green, and clear)

ModRetro: M64

GameStop: Smoke ModRetro M64

Get the ModRetro Chromatic

Get ModRetro Chromatic games

The ModRetro M64 aims to revive the Nintendo 64 for the modern age with a 4K output and powerful new hardware. But what colors are available?

Unlike the Analogue 3D, which comes in an all-black and all-white design, the five M64 colors are a real throwback, featuring translucent plastic that so many tech enthusiasts love.

The N64 was released in a similar style, and it proved to be popular with gamers. After a long hiatus, translucent and transparent tech has undergone a bit of a revival, with Nothing and Beats bringing back the unique look.

There are three M64 colors to choose from: purple, green, red, clear, and smoke, we’ll update this list when new colors release. According to ModRetro’s founder Palmer Luckey, more than a dozen colors are on the way. Don’t forget to check out our ModRetro M64 review for our final verdict.

M64 purple

The purple M64 color is the most reminiscent of one of the original translucent N64 that Nintendo produced all those years ago. It’s bound to be a popular choice, and purple has quietly become a color associated with Nintendo thanks to the GameCube and Game Boy Advance.

M64 green

Best described as a yellowish green, the M64 certainly stands out in this bold colorway, especially the large power and reset buttons. We’d wager that the green M64 will be the least popular color, but it still resonate with some.

M64 clear

The M64 clear colorway looks absolutely glorious and may be our personal favorite. Similar to Nothing’s eye-catching translucent design language, the M64 looks suitably smart yet striking in the clear colorway. Expect this M64 color to be a popular choice.

M64 red

Luckey revealed that more than a dozen colors will be released for the M64, with “easily swappable low-cost body kits”. He also showed off an ‘AMD Red’ color for the M64 as part of ModRetro’s collaboration with AMD gaming, which has now become an official option for players to choose from.

M64 Smoke Edition

The M64 Smoke Edition is exclusive to GameStop. It features a translucent gray and black shell and costs $229.99. ModRetro previously sold an exclusive Chromatic at GameStop, so the partnership isn’t too surprising.

M64 controller colors

Luckey also shared that the M64 controllers will also come with swappable shells, and that it can take “less than a minute to swap” a shell if you’re speedy. For now, you can get the M64 controller in purple, clear, and green, red, and smoke which will match the console. Of course, you can also use existing N64 controllers with the M64.

Up next: ModRetro Chromatic review: a perfect retro revival of the Game Boy and Game Boy Color

Subscribe now

Adam Vjestica is The Shortcut’s Senior Editor. Formerly TechRadar’s Gaming Hardware Editor, Adam has also worked at Nintendo of Europe as a Content Marketing Editor, where he helped launch the Nintendo Switch. He also runs a retro gaming YouTube channel called Game on, boy! Follow him on X @ItsMrProducts.

Samsung has a hit on its hands with the Galaxy Z Fold 8. The foldable takes on a passport-like design that’s a lot shorter and wider than the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra - and people love it. The new shape has taken the smartphone world by storm, with lots of people clamoring to get their hands on it before their favorite color sells out.

Of course, if you want to protect your investment, you might want to pick up a case so you don’t have to worry about cracks or scratches. Lucky for you, we’ve been reviewing smartphone cases for decades and know which ones are worth your money, and which ones you should skip.

Below, we’re highlighting the 11 best Galaxy Z Fold 8 cases you can get that we’d use on our personal devices any day of the week.

Disclosure: We use affiliate links for just about everything on The Shortcut that highlights a product. It helps us earn a small commission to keep the lights on in Swider Studios.

Best Galaxy Z Fold 8 cases

ZAGG Crystal Palace Snap Case

If you want to show off the color of your Galaxy Z Fold 8, ZAGG has the perfect case for you. The Crystal Palace Snap case features a modern, clean design with special coatings to ensure it doesn’t yellow or age too quickly. There’s a special part in the middle to protect the hinge and prevent any accidents, while the reinforced edges will protect it from drops. Plus, it has a magnet in the back for using MagSafe/Qi2 accessories

Price: $79.99

Best Buy: ZAGG Crystal Palace

Dbrand Grip Case

We’ve been using Dbrand’s Grip Case on a variety of phones we have in the studio for a while, and it’s one of our favorite go-tos with its durable design and reliable protection. There’s one for the Z Fold 8 that will give you military-grade drop protection, a clean design, and the option to choose any skin on Dbrand’s website to outfit it with, helping your Fold 8 stand out from the rest. The best part? A skin is included in the purchase price of the case, making it a surprisingly good value.

Price: $59.90

Dbrand: Grip Case

UAG Mouve Clear Case

UAG cases are designed to be taken anywhere, with premium materials and construction for a snug fit and enhanced durability. The Mouve case for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 combines a clear design with rubberized edges for a tactile grip, military-grade drop protection, and scratch resistance. It wraps around each side of your device and supplies a magnet in the back for accessories and charging. It’s a stylish and simple way to protect your device.

Price: $64.95

Amazon: UAG Mouve Case

Samsung Carbon Magnet Case

Samsung made one of the coolest cases you can get for the Galaxy Z Fold 8. The Carbon Magnet Case is made from Aramid, a material that’s super thin and extremely durable. It keeps the slim profile of the Fold 8 intact while giving you protection against light bumps and scratches. It’s available in three different colors and comes with a magnet for attaching accessories to the back.

Price: $109.99

Samsung: Carbon Magnet Case

Spigen Air Fit Pro MagFit

Spigen is one of our favorite brands to shop from for phone cases at great prices. The Air Fit Pro MagFit is a stand-out for the Galaxy Z Fold 8. It comes with a slim profile that adds enough rigidity to your phone for military-grade drop protection. It also protects your hinge and the camera lenses on the back with a raised lip. It integrates magnets for charging and accessories, and it’s priced under $30.

Price: $29.99

Amazon: Spigen Air Fit Pro

Otterbox Defender Series Pro XT

For well over a decade, Otterbox has been one of those brands you can always rely on for extreme smartphone protection. Its Defender Series Pro XT case for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is no exception to that rule. It comes with a tough, rugged design that protects your phone from drops and scuffs, while also protecting the hinge and the ports from any dirt that could slip in.

Price: $89.99

Amazon: Otterbox Defender Series Pro XT

Dteck Magnetic Shockproof Case

For simple protection in a variety of colors, Dteck has a solid case for the Galaxy Z Fold 8. It offers a precise fit with a magnet in the back for charging and accessories; it’s slim, lightweight, and will protect your device against light bumps. It comes in eight total colors to make your Fold 8 pop: Black, Dark Blue, Dark Green, Pink, Purple, Red, Sky Blue, and Wine Red.

Price: $17.99

Best Buy: Dteck case

Samsung Mirror Magnet Case

If you want something whimsical and fun, check out Samsung’s Mirror Magnet Case for the Galaxy Z Fold 8. A simple yet playful accessory, this case protects your device from scratches and scuffs while adding a friendly touch to the back with a cartoon character. There are a few different versions you can choose from to pick your preferred style, and all of them ship with magnets for MagSafe compatibility.

Price: $69.99

Samsung: Mirror Magnet Case

OCASE Wallet Case

Wallet cases are a convenient way to keep all of your most important stuff with you at all times, and the OCASE Wallet Case for the Z Fold 8 is a solid choice. Its faux leather exterior is stylish and protective, while on the inside, you can store three cards and cash. It’s also available in a bunch of different colors, and it’s priced at under $30.

Price: $29.99

Amazon: OCASE Wallet Case

Fntcase Case with Magnetic Kickstand

For full 360-degree protection, check out the Fntcase Case with Magnetic Kickstand. This case for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 has everything you need: a protective military-grade design, a kickstand for propping your phone up for hands-free viewing, a screen protector, MagSafe support, hinge protection, and camera lens protection. It’s the ultimate go-to for anyone who may consider themselves… a bit of a cluts.

Price: $69.99

Amazon: Fntcase Case

Samsung Silicone Magnet Case

Silicone cases are a great choice for a pop of color and for adding grip to your phone. Samsung’s first-party Silicone Magnet Case offers a precise fit and a range of colors that’ll match the finish you pick for your Galaxy Z Fold 8. It gives the device enough protection for everyday life, while keeping a slim profile and looking stylish at the same time.

Price: $89.99

Samsung: Silicone Magnet Case

• 📱 Samsung has just announced the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra alongside the passport-style Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 at Galaxy Unpacked 2026

• 📖 It’s now Samsung’s most premium foldable to date, taking it above last year’s Z Fold 7

• 📸 The biggest changes are a much-improved ultrawide camera, a bigger battery with faster charging, and a new titanium-reinforced display

• 👀 If you already own a Z Fold 7, it still holds its own in a lot of ways — here’s whether the upgrades justify moving on

• 📝 Here’s a breakdown of both devices to help you decide which is the smarter buy

Samsung has launched a brand new flagship foldable as part of its new foldable and flip lineup for Galaxy Unpacked 2026.

The Z Fold 8 Ultra is the brightest, fastest, and most advanced foldable Samsung has made yet, although it comes at a cost against last year’s Z Fold 7 – a phone that Matt and Max called “the new standard for foldable phones” in their review.

However, it may be the case that you can get a deal on last year’s model and want to know what you’d be missing out on if you went for 2025’s flagship Samsung foldable.

Regardless, if you’ve already got the Z Fold 7 and are wondering whether this new Ultra model is worth the extra expense, then we’ve compared Samsung’s latest foldables below.

🛍️ Samsung Galaxy Z8 preorder deals

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

⬇️ More Galaxy Z8 Unpacked coverage

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 hands-on review: $100 cheaper? In this economy?!

• Galaxy Z Flip 8 hands-on: $100 extra for a speed bump

• Galaxy Watch 9 and Ultra 2 hands-on

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 colors: hands-on with all 4 snazzy new finishes

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra colors: hands-on with all 4 premium finishes

• Galaxy Z Flip 8 colors: hands-on with all 4 fun new finishes

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs Z Fold 8: which foldable is the right fit for you?

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs Z Fold 7: should you upgrade to the latest version?

Buy the Z Fold 8 Ultra if….

💪 You want beefier internals: The Z Fold 8 Ultra ships with a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy SoC, which is the same processor you’ll find in the Galaxy S26 Ultra, making it the beefiest foldable Samsung has made yet. It also ships with Android 17 and One UI 9 out of the box, rather than launching with last year’s software, complete with the array of new AI features that Samsung has brought to the party.

👷‍♂️ You want the most durable and bright screen Samsung has used on a foldable: The Z Fold 8 Ultra introduces a Flex Titanium display to a Samsung foldable for the first time — a titanium alloy film that supports the OLED panel, said to be a third the width of a human hair yet 20 times more durable than a polymer-based film, alongside a titanium plate underneath for a flatter, more uniform surface. Samsung also says it reduces crease visibility versus previous Folds, and peak brightness rises to 3,000 nits. Combined with a new, lower-effort hinge design — reportedly inspired by Samsung’s Trifold — that needs less pressure to open, it’s pitched as the slimmest, most refined Fold yet.

📷 You want the best cameras: Samsung has slightly upgraded the camera system for the Z Fold 8 Ultra, upgrading the resolution of the ultrawide snapper to 50MP, which is good if you take a lot of wide landscapes. Otherwise, the 200MP main sensor and 10MP telephoto lens are the same, although Samsung has introduced a new ProVisual Engine and Advanced AP processing for better low-light photos and video, and the ability to record in 8K on the main and ultrawide lenses.

🔋 You want a bigger battery: Samsung has upgraded the battery capacity of the Z Fold 8 Ultra to a 5000mAh cell, which is the biggest battery it’s put in a foldable yet – and also keeps parity with the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Samsung rates this handset to go for up to 27 hours of video playback on a charge, plus you get 45W wired fast charging and up to 20W wireless charging for getting juice back into the device.

Buy/Keep the Z Fold 7 if….

📖 You’re happy with the book-style foldable form factor: The Z Fold 8 Ultra doesn’t move the needle much on the established foldable form factor, as the two handsets are virtually identical to hold. The Z Fold 8 Ultra is technically the slimmest yet, but the dimensions of the phones are essentially identical with similar weights, too. You might want to look to the standard Z Fold 8 if you want a different foldable experience.

🤷‍♂️ You’re not fussed about a slightly brighter or tougher screen: Both phones use the same size and resolution display, so you’re not losing any sharpness by sticking with the Z Fold 7. The Z Fold 8 Ultra’s Flex Titanium construction brings a bump to peak brightness and durability, plus the crease is less visible, but the actual viewing experience — panel size, resolution, refresh rate — is virtually unchanged.

👍 You’re happy with 3x optical zoom either way: Samsung hasn’t touched the telephoto camera between generations — both phones use the same 10MP, 3x optical zoom lens. If zoom performance is the deciding factor for you, there’s no reason to pay more for the Fold 8 Ultra, since you’ll get identical results here on last year’s phone.

💰 You don’t want to spend out another $2,099 on a new foldable: Prices have risen slightly against last year’s $1,999 price tag that Samsung charged for the Z Fold 7, and it remains a very capable phone with beefy performance, strong cameras and good battery life that can be picked up for much less than the new model, owing to used deals or simply because it’s now a generation old. The upgrades to this new ‘Ultra’ model are a little more iterative in that respect, and if you haven’t used your existing phone to its full potential in the last year, the new ‘Ultra’ may be wasted on you.

🛍️ Samsung Galaxy Z8 preorder deals

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

Up next: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs Z Fold 8: which foldable is the right fit for you?

Subscribe now

Reece Bithrey is a journalist with bylines for Trusted Reviews, Digital Foundry, PC Gamer, TechRadar and more. He also has his own blog, UNTITLED, and graduated from the University of Leeds with a degree in International History and Politics in 2023.

• 📱 Samsung just announced the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

• ⏮️ It’s a direct successor to last year’s Fold 7

• ⚙️ It shares a similar design but with a bigger battery, an improved hinge, and better specs

• 🎨 It comes in four different colors, and we got to check them all out

• 👀 Here’s your first look to help you decide which one is right for you

Samsung finally did it: the first Galaxy Z Fold Ultra is here. The new Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is the best of what Samsung can cram into a folding phone, and with a starting price of over $2,000, it could be one of the best (and most expensive) phones of 2026. We got to check out its enhanced design, upgraded camera system, and improved performance ahead of Unpacked, and were left impressed with what we saw.

It’s one of those phones that’s begging to be tested in the real world, and we plan to put it through the wringer once we get our hands on it. Speaking of which, if you want to get your hands on one, Samsung is offering enhanced preorder deals that can save you up to $1,230 on your purchase, which is really sweet.

But before you pull the trigger, you’ve gotta decide which color to go with. Samsung is shipping the Z Fold 8 Ultra in four different finishes this year, all of which look stunning in person. Here’s a breakdown of each one to help you pick.

🛍️ Samsung Galaxy Z8 preorder deals

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

⬇️ More Galaxy Z8 Unpacked coverage

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 hands-on review: $100 cheaper? In this economy?!

• Galaxy Z Flip 8 hands-on: $100 extra for a speed bump

• Galaxy Watch 9 and Ultra 2 hands-on

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 colors: hands-on with all 4 snazzy new finishes

• Galaxy Z Flip 8 colors: hands-on with all 4 fun new finishes

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs Z Fold 8: which foldable is the right fit for you?

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs Z Fold 7: should you upgrade to the latest version?

Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra colors

Violet Shadow

Samsung’s flagship color for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is “Violet Shadow,” and it’s a very unique take on the color purple. Instead of just painting the phone a static color, Samsung opted for one that reveals itself in bright lighting. Hold it at the right angle, and you’ll see a sheen of deep violet stretch across the back glass. The aluminum has a hint of the color, too, to complete the look. In most lighting, it has a very dark plum vibe, making it one of the most interesting finishes we’ve seen from the company in years.

Cream

The white version of the Fold 8 Ultra is called “Cream,” and it’s a sharp-looking finish. Like the regular Galaxy Z Fold 8, it leans into a sort of French Vanilla ice cream vibe with its off-white accent, complete with a silver aluminum frame that elevates the appearance. It’s the one to get if you tend to like a generic phone that isn’t boring to look at.

Graphite

Speaking of which, the most generic option here is technically Graphite, but that’s not to say it’s a bad color. Rather. It’s going to make any fan of a matte black phone very happy. This model comes with a sharp gunmetal aluminum frame and color-matched glass, making it look sophisticated and totally badass. It’s a great look for anyone who wants something subtle, tough, and matches the sheer performance of the phone.

Green Shadow (Samsung.com exclusive)

My personal favorite of the lineup is Green Shadow. It’s the only model here that’s exclusive to Samsung.com, and it’s totally a reason to skip third-party retailers and order right from Samsung. It has a similar vibe to the Violet Shadow model where it looks like a dark, mossy green at first, then gets more vibrant at certain angles in the right lighting. It’s a stellar colorway, one that feels earthy and understated in a way that can easily stand out in a crowd.

Which Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra color is your favorite?

Between all four colors, which finish are you picking up? Let us know in the comments below!

🛍️ Samsung Galaxy Z8 preorder deals

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

Max Buondonno is an editor at The Shortcut and co-host of The Shortcut Live. He’s been reporting on the latest consumer technology since 2015, with his work featured on CNN Underscored, ZDNET, How-To Geek, XDA, TheStreet, and more. Follow him on X @LegendaryScoop and Instagram @LegendaryScoop.

• 🆕 Samsung has announced two brand new foldables at Galaxy Unpacked 2026

• 📷 The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra employs an upgraded camera system, a new Snapdragon Elite Gen 5 SoC, and the biggest battery Samsung has fitted to a foldable yet

• 🪶 The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 uses a new passport-style form factor, moves to two 50MP cameras and is Samsung’s lightest and most portable foldable yet

• 🆚 Here’s a breakdown of both devices to help you decide which to buy

Samsung has reinvented its foldable lineup for 2026 with a brand new form factor that could prove to be one of its most popular this year.

The new Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and Z Fold 8 are both foldable devices, but one is aimed at the pure power user with a more advanced camera system, a bigger screen, larger battery and even more besides.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is designed more around what Samsung calls “immersive discovery”, pairing an all-new passport-style form factor with the same fast SoC as the Ultra, plus a solid camera and battery setup to boot.

Which one is best depends on your needs and what you want to get out of a foldable, but if you need help deciding, we’ve compared Samsung’s latest foldables below.

🛍️ Samsung Galaxy Z8 preorder deals

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

⬇️ More Galaxy Z8 Unpacked coverage

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 hands-on review: $100 cheaper? In this economy?!

• Galaxy Z Flip 8 hands-on: $100 extra for a speed bump

• Galaxy Watch 9 and Ultra 2 hands-on

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 colors: hands-on with all 4 snazzy new finishes

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra colors: hands-on with all 4 premium finishes

• Galaxy Z Flip 8 colors: hands-on with all 4 fun new finishes

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs Z Fold 7: should you upgrade to the latest version?

Buy the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra if…

🙏 You want a conventional foldable form factor: It might seem silly to say, but the Z Fold 8 Ultra is technically the only foldable in Samsung’s lineup that sticks with the tried-and-tested book-style form factor. It’s been around long enough that it’s easy to get used to if you’re already in the foldable ecosystem and want to upgrade to a brand new device that makes changes inside, rather than to the outside.

📏 You want a bigger screen: For pure power users, there isn’t a better foldable in Samsung’s lineup than the Z Fold 8 Ultra. It has bigger screens than the standard Z Fold 8, with the unfolded screen essentially being two 6.5-inch screens next to each other. It also reaches a peak brightness of 3,000 nits for impactful highlights and employs the brand’s new Flex Titanium tech for increased durability and lightness.

📷 You want more advanced cameras: The needle hasn’t moved too much on cameras against the Z Fold 7, but it means the Z Fold 8 Ultra sticks with a flagship-grade triple array with a 200MP main sensor, an upgraded 50MP ultrawide and a 10MP 3x telephoto lens. This comes complete with Samsung’s new ProVisual Engine and Advanced AP processing for better low-light photos and video, and the ability to record in 8K on the main and ultrawide lenses.

🔋 You want a bigger battery: Samsung has finally increased the battery capacity against its previous-gen foldables, kitting the Z Fold 8 Ultra out with a 5,000mAh cell that matches the capacity of its latest flagship candybar phones. It says this can help the Ultra foldable last for up to 27 hours on a single charge, plus you get 45W wired fast charging and up to 20W wireless charging.

Buy the Galaxy Z Fold 8 if…

🆕 You want the passport-style form factor: The big draw with the Z Fold 8 is the passport-style form factor that makes it unique in the brand’s lineup. It folds the 7.6-inch main display in a landscape orientation, working out to a 4:3 aspect ratio on the main screen in landscape and 3:4 in portrait. Samsung says that works out to a “content native form factor”, making this ideal for productivity, video consumption and more.

🪶 You want Samsung’s lightest foldable yet: Thanks to the device’s ultra-thin display stack, the Z Fold 8 is Samsung’s lightest foldable yet at just 201g, meaning it’s one of the most pocketable handsets of its kind, especially in conjunction with its new form factor that keeps it compact when folded up. The overall profile is completely different to the Ultra model, which is a plus if you want a very pocketable foldable phone.

🤷‍♂️ You don’t mind sacrificing a telephoto lens: One of the Z Fold 8’s more noticeable compromises against the Ultra model is with its camera system. It ships with a 50MP main sensor and a 50MP ultrawide, meaning the main snapper is lacking in resolution and there isn’t a dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom. For everyday photography, it’s likely to be fine, although we’ll have to see what full testing of the device brings.

💰 You want the theoretically more affordable choice: The Z Fold 8 is cheaper than the Ultra model at $1,899.99, whereas the Z Fold 8 Ultra costs $2,099.99. It’s still a hefty increase over the likes of the Galaxy S26 Ultra, though, and previous Samsung foldables, meaning there is quite a cost to swallow.

🛍️ Samsung Galaxy Z8 preorder deals

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

Up next: Galaxy Z Fold 8 release date: Everything we know about Samsung’s next foldables

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Reece Bithrey is a journalist with bylines for Trusted Reviews, Digital Foundry, PC Gamer, TechRadar and more. He also has his own blog, UNTITLED, and graduated from the University of Leeds with a degree in International History and Politics in 2023.

• 📱 Samsung just announced the Galaxy Z Fold 8

• 📐 It’s much shorter and wider than any previous Galaxy Fold smartphone

• 🎨 It comes in four different colors, and we got to check them all out

• 👀 Here’s your first look to help you decide which one is right for you

Samsung is going for something radically different with the new Galaxy Z Fold 8. It has a much different look than what we’re used to seeing, with a shorter and wider form factor compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. In person, the phone is even shorter than you’d expect, and we thought it was an exciting change in our Z Fold 8 hands-on.

With dual rear cameras, flagship specs, and two spacious displays for watching all of your favorite content, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is one of the most exciting foldables of the year. If you’ve been eyeing it up and want to make it your next smartphone, you can save up to $1,230 by preordering it ahead of its launch.

But the bigger question is which color is right for you. After all, Samsung is offering it in four distinct colorways this year, all of which look really sharp in-person. After getting to experience each of them, here’s a breakdown of each Galaxy Z Fold 8 color to help you decide which one you should go with.

🛍️ Samsung Galaxy Z8 preorder deals

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

⬇️ More Galaxy Z8 Unpacked coverage

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 hands-on review: $100 cheaper? In this economy?!

• Galaxy Z Flip 8 hands-on: $100 extra for a speed bump

• Galaxy Watch 9 and Ultra 2 hands-on

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra colors: hands-on with all 4 premium finishes

• Galaxy Z Flip 8 colors: hands-on with all 4 fun new finishes

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs Z Fold 8: which foldable is the right fit for you?

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs Z Fold 7: should you upgrade to the latest version?

Galaxy Z Fold 8 colors

Lavender

The flagship color for the Galaxy Z Fold 8, this floral finish is both vibrant and pastel enough to blend in perfectly with your wardrobe and aesthetic. It manages to stick out but not like a sore thumb - more like a bouquet of flowers in an otherwise desolate room. It’s by far one of the best purples that Samsung has shipped on a smartphone, with a color-matched aluminum frame and everything.

Cream

If there were ever a phone color that should be called “Cream,” it’s this one. There’s something about the finish that looks just like French Vanilla ice cream, minus the specks of vanilla bean. This off-white color scheme is less boring than a traditional silver or white, making it more expressive and eye-catching as a result. If you want something less pronounced but still unique, this is the shade for you.

Graphite

Samsung always knows how to pull off a gunmetal gray, and the Graphite version of the Z Fold 8 is no exception. While boring in comparison to the other colors in Samsung’s lineup, the Graphite version of the Fold 8 is exactly what fans of a matte black smartphone want: it’s dark, the aluminum frame is even darker, and it’s subtle enough to look both sophisticated and understated.

Pistachio (Samsung.com exclusive)

Samsung went with all-green for the exclusive colors sold on its website, and the one coming to the Fold 8 is “Pistachio.” It’s a vibrant green that doesn’t feel oversaturated or unpleasing to the naked eye. Instead, it’s playful and a bit earthy. It falls perfectly in line with the other vibrant hues in the Fold 8’s lineup, giving you a great option if you want your next smartphone to truly stand out from the crowd.

Which Galaxy Z Fold 8 color is for you?

Out of all four different finishes, which Fold 8 color are you picking up? Let us know in the comments below!

🛍️ Samsung Galaxy Z8 preorder deals

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

Max Buondonno is an editor at The Shortcut and co-host of The Shortcut Live. He’s been reporting on the latest consumer technology since 2015, with his work featured on CNN Underscored, ZDNET, How-To Geek, XDA, TheStreet, and more. Follow him on X @LegendaryScoop and Instagram @LegendaryScoop.

• 📱 Samsung just announced the Galaxy Z Flip 8

• 📐 It’s a small upgrade over the Flip 7 with a slightly thinner and lighter body

• 🎨 It comes in four different colors, and we got to check them all out

• 👀 Here’s your first look to help you decide which one is right for you

Samsung’s motto with the Galaxy Z Flip 8 seems to be “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” The phone, a successor to last year’s Flip 7, offers minimal upgrades in favor of familiarity. The design looks the same, the specs are marginally better, and the experience of using a Galaxy Z Flip will improve slightly as a result. We got to play around with the phone ahead of Unpacked, and it felt instantly familiar, which is a good thing.

The Galaxy Z Flip 8 will likely become the default flip phone for a lot of people who want to switch to the foldable lifestyle. If that’s you, you’ll want to preorder a Flip 8 to save the most money, especially given the fact that its price went up compared to the Flip 7. Samsung’s preorder deals can save you up to $1,230 depending on the phone you buy and the one you trade in.

But before you pull the trigger on a new Flip 8, you have to pick the color you want. Samsung is shipping the device in four different finishes, all of which are vibrant and look great in-person. Here’s a breakdown of each one to help you decide which is right for you.

🛍️ Samsung Galaxy Z8 preorder deals

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

⬇️ More Galaxy Z8 Unpacked coverage

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 hands-on review: $100 cheaper? In this economy?!

• Galaxy Z Flip 8 hands-on: $100 extra for a speed bump

• Galaxy Watch 9 and Ultra 2 hands-on

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 colors: hands-on with all 4 snazzy new finishes

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra colors: hands-on with all 4 premium finishes

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs Z Fold 8: which foldable is the right fit for you?

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs Z Fold 7: should you upgrade to the latest version?

Galaxy Z Flip 8 colors

Pink

It’s bright, it’s bold, and it’s very… pink. Samsung’s Pink version of the Galaxy Z Flip 8 is the one to get if you want something that’ll remind you of cotton candy every time you pick it up. The finish pops in person and delivers a fun, whimsical vibe that’ll satisfy anyone who loves to coat everything pink in their lives.

Cream

The Galaxy Z Flip 8’s white finish is called “Cream,” and it leans into a milkier appearance than ever before. Its off-white accent is contrasted with a silver aluminum frame for a premium touch. It’s elegant without being too flashy, and it’s ideal for anyone who like something a little classier than the rest. I found it to be the cleanest-looking phone in Samsung’s lineup, too, given how well it can hide fingerprints.

Graphite

For fans of matte black, there’s Graphite. Samsung’s gunmetal version of the Galaxy Z Flip 8 looks tough in person, and it has a very understated appearance when the cover screen is turned off. It’s perfect if you want to put a case on your phone right away, or if you simply don’t want a phone that screams “hey, look at me!”

Mint (Samsung.com exclusive)

The most vibrant color in Samsung’s lineup has to be Mint. An exclusive to Samsung.com, the color is very vibrant and saturated, giving the Flip 8 a fun look that isn’t often duplicated by any other phone manufacturer. It’s a fresh, inviting finish that can give your daily fit the perfect pop of color you’re looking for. It’s a great reason to skip third-party retailers and take advantage of the deals through Samsung’s website.

Which Galaxy Z Flip 8 color is your favorite?

Between all four finishes, which of these colors do you like the most? Let us know in the comments below!

🛍️ Samsung Galaxy Z8 preorder deals

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

• → Preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

Max Buondonno is an editor at The Shortcut and co-host of The Shortcut Live. He’s been reporting on the latest consumer technology since 2015, with his work featured on CNN Underscored, ZDNET, How-To Geek, XDA, TheStreet, and more. Follow him on X @LegendaryScoop and Instagram @LegendaryScoop.

• 🆚 The Steam Frame has stronger specs than the Quest 3, with higher refresh rate displays, expandable storage, and more RAM

• 💰 The Quest 3 is more affordable and available now – we don’t know how much the Steam Frame is going to be

• 👏 The Steam Frame looks to excel in PCVR, with an entire Steam library of games available to play in 2D plus an array of certified games

• 👍 The Quest 3 has its own games library, plus benefits from mixed reality use with its full-color passthrough

Walmart: Meta Quest 3

Best Buy: Meta Quest 3

GameStop: Meta Quest 3

Amazon: Meta Quest 3

Valve’s upcoming Steam Frame could be here very soon, and is the company’s follow-up to its first VR headset, the Valve Index. But there’s an established headset already available that the Frame will have to beat – and that’s the Meta Quest 3.

The Quest 3 is one of the best-selling VR headsets we’ve seen in recent times, making the Steam Frame an interesting newcomer that prioritizes unique features against Meta’s market leader.

There are some key things we don’t know about the Steam Frame yet, such as the device’s price and its release date. Likewise, we don’t know the status of the Steam Frame’s pre-order just yet either.

Nevertheless, the two headsets make for an intriguing comparison, so let’s see how this plays out as we analyze the specs, games, and unique features of each VR headset.

Steam Frame vs Quest 3: price

We don’t have an official figure for the Steam Frame’s price, although we can make an educated guess based on our own knowledge and comments Valve has made in the past.

We initially predicted a $699 price tag for the headset, although with the severe price hike we already saw with the Steam Machine, it could land closer to $899 or $999.

At the time of the headset’s announcement with Upload VR, Valve said it was aiming to supply the Steam Frame for less than the $1,000 full-kit that it charged for the Valve Index.

For reference, the Meta Quest 3 costs $600 for its 512GB model after a price rise Meta implemented a few months ago, which is dearer than its previous $500 price, although significantly cheaper than the Steam Frame’s near $1000 anticipated price tag.

It’s likely that the 1TB version of the Steam Frame could exceed four figures, so when it comes to which VR headset will be the most affordable, it’s an easy win for the Quest 3.

Steam Frame vs Quest 3: specs

One area where we can make concrete comparisons is with the specs of both devices. The Steam Frame has stronger hardware than the Quest 3, as it’s lighter, has higher refresh rate screens, plus more RAM and a faster processor.

Valve’s also positioning the Steam Frame as a device you can use to stream high-fidelity VR games from a PC, rather than being a standalone device. However, it also lets you play games installed on the unit itself, but this isn’t its primary appeal.

The Quest 3 has its merits, such as its full-color mixed reality passthrough against the Steam Frame’s monochrome passthrough and a large library of titles – but for reference, here is the full specs sheet for both:

Steam Frame specs

Display and optics

• Resolution: 2160×2160 LCD per eye

• Refresh Rate: 72Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz, and 144Hz (experimental)

• Optics: Pancake lenses

• Field of View (FOV): Up to 110 degrees

• IPD Adjustment: Variable with a physical dial

Performance and storage

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3

• RAM: 16GB Unified LPDDR5X

• Storage: 256GB or 1TB UFS

• Expandable Storage: Yes, via a microSD card slot

Connectivity

• Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 7, with dual 5GHz and 6GHz radios

• Wireless Adapter: Bundled Wi-Fi 6E (6GHz) USB adapter for direct, low-latency PC connection

Other specifications

• Tracking: Inside-out computer vision tracking, with eye tracking support

• Audio: Integrated dual audio drivers in the headstrap

• Weight: 185g for the core unit; 440g with the standard headstrap and facial interface installed

• Battery: 21.6 Wh rechargeable Li-ion battery located in the rear headstrap

• Expansion Port: User-accessible front expansion port

Meta Quest 3 specs

Display and optics

• Resolution: 2064 x 2208 pixels per eye

• Refresh Rate: Up to 120Hz (with 72Hz and 90Hz support)

• Field of View: 110º horizontal by 96º vertical

• IPD Adjustment: Continuous slider between 58mm and 70mm

• Passthrough: Full-color mixed reality passthrough

Performance and storage

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2

• RAM: 8 GB

• Storage: 128 GB or 512 GB

• Expandable Storage: No

Connectivity

• Wireless: Wi-Fi 6E

Other specifications

• Weight: 515g

• Battery: Battery Capacity: 4985 mAh, approximately 2.2 hours of life, 18W charging

Steam Frame vs Quest 3: games

The Steam Frame and Meta Quest 3 have different libraries of games that ultimately serve difference purposes. Valve will let you play your entire Steam library on the Frame with its clever 2D display mode alongside a vast array of high-fidelity VR titles like Half-Life: Alyx.

As part of Valve’s vast array of backend updates to prepare for the Steam Frame’s release, Valve has certified an array of games for the device, such as its first certified game – Portal 2 – as well as Valve’s own VR showcase games for the headset with Aperture Hand Labs and The Lab.

All three of those also form part of Valve’s recently launched new category for ‘Great on Frame’ games on Steam alongside other titles such as Titan Isles and the others mentioned above.

Valve also recently verified three more games for the Steam Frame, with Ancient Dungeons, Underdogs, Slots & Diapers, and added them to the new ‘Great on Frame’ category.

Alongside this, Valve is positioning the Steam Frame as a headset you can stream to, as well as play standalone games.

By contrast, Meta has its own store and exclusive titles and subscription programs such as Meta’s Horizon Plus free games, although it isn’t on the scale of the prospect of playing your entire Steam library on the Steam Frame, and it is powerful enough to run heavier PC VR games unless you’re tethered to a desktop.

Steam Frame vs Quest 3: which one should you buy?

The Steam Frame is an entirely different proposition to the Meta Quest 3, making it quite difficult to compare the two. However, I’d argue that if you’re after a powerful, do-it-all VR headset for standalone and streaming play, then the Steam Frame looks like it’s going to be hard to beat.

The Quest 3 will probably be more affordable and has its own merits, such as the full-color passthrough for mixed-reality experiences, plus Meta’s own library of games will be appealing to those who are already deep into that ecosystem.

It’s hard to pick out a real winner here because we still don’t know key details about the Steam Frame, such as its pricing and availability. When we get that, you’ll find it right here, as it’s going to have a hefty impact on which headset we ultimately recommend.

Up next:

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Reece Bithrey is a journalist with bylines for Trusted Reviews, Digital Foundry, PC Gamer, TechRadar and more. He also has his own blog, UNTITLED, and graduated from the University of Leeds with a degree in International History and Politics in 2023.