The best Switch 2 case I’ve tried is cheaper than usual

Dbrand apparently knows how to really whiff a product launch, as we recently saw with the Steam Machine Companion Cube shell. But it also makes the best case out there for the Nintendo Switch 2, which happens to be discounted right now. The Killswitch 2 is versatile, with better build quality than other similar models, snapping around the back and the edges of the console, with Joy-Con slip covers that add a bulkier, more ergonomically-friendly feel to the controllers. The “Travel” bundle that also includes a hard bungee strap-secured cover to protect the screen (that can hold 10 cartridges) plus stick grips is $69.99 at Dbrand, or $71.99 at Best Buy (usually $80).

The Killswitch 2 is a great pick if you want to retain the console’s hybrid use cases, swapping with ease between handheld to docked mode. The case includes a USB-C dock adapter to let you beam the console’s video feed to a TV; it’s a slightly cumbersome solution if you’re aiming to have a tidy entertainment center, but I haven’t seen other brands achieve a more elegant adapter solution yet.

Read my review of the Killswitch 2.

Other good deals to consider

• Walmart is offering a fantastic deal on Acer’s 27-inch 1440p QD-OLED gaming monitor. Originally $549.99, it’s down to $314.99 online, which was the same price we saw during Amazon Prime Day last week. It’s tough to beat the value here. For one, OLEDs offer unparalleled contrast compared to other panel types, not to mention the fastest response time around. The Predator X27U here has a 240Hz refresh rate, two DisplayPort 1.4 ports, and two HDMI 2.1 ports. It includes a heigh-adjustable stand that supports swiveling and pivoting, and the monitor has built-in speakers, though they likely aren’t all that good. Importantly, the monitor is covered by Acer’s three-year warranty that protects against burn-in under normal circumstances. Acer’s monitor has similar specs to the $349.99 Alienware AW2726DM I bought, though I prefer the Alienware’s slimmer design.

• Movies that are part of the Criterion Collection are half off at Barnes and Noble as well as Amazon, ending July 26th according to Barnes and Noble. That means 4K Blu-rays are down to $24.99, excluding box sets and some releases (like Seven Samurai, which is still a phenomenal deal at $29.99). Several preorders are eligible for half off discounts, too, but not the upcoming K-Pop Demon Hunters that’s releasing in December. Blu-rays are down to $19.98, though some similar exclusions apply there, too. Big discounts like these come just a handful of times each year, and you don’t need me to tell you they’re a great opportunity to load up your shelves.
• If you’re like me and occasionally order groceries for delivery with same-day service, you might appreciate Best Buy’s small, but welcome discount on Instacart gift cards. It’s offering $50 gift cards for $45, putting some money back in your pocket for tipping your delivery person. Regardless of which local retailer you plan to order deliveries from (Costco is a personal favorite), make sure to add the gift card credit through the Instacart site, then do your shopping from there. It seems like Best Buy limits customers to a single gift card per account at this price.