1. Introduction
The CRKD Nitro Deck is a professional handheld controller designed to enhance your gaming experience on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch OLED models. It features Hall effect thumbsticks to eliminate stick drift, remappable back buttons for customized control, and a low-latency USB-C connection for responsive gameplay. This manual provides detailed instructions on setting up, operating, and maintaining your Nitro Deck.
1.1. Compatibility
The CRKD Nitro Deck is compatible with both the original Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch OLED model. Simply slide your console into the deck for a secure fit.
1.2. Product Overview Video
Official CRKD Nitro Deck Trailer. This video provides a general overview of the product's features and design.
2. Setup
2.1. Inserting Your Nintendo Switch Console
- Ensure your Nintendo Switch console is powered off or in sleep mode.
- Align the USB-C port of your Switch with the USB-C connector inside the Nitro Deck.
- Gently slide the Switch console into the Nitro Deck until it clicks securely into place. The console should sit flush within the deck.

The CRKD Nitro Deck with a Nintendo Switch console inserted, showcasing its ergonomic design.
2.2. Removing Your Nintendo Switch Console
- Locate the release slider on the back of the Nitro Deck.
- Push the slider upwards to disengage the locking mechanism.
- While holding the slider up, gently slide the Nintendo Switch console out of the Nitro Deck.

Rear view of the Nitro Deck, highlighting the release slider for console removal.
2.3. Enabling Pro Controller Wired Communication (for Wired Mode)
To ensure your Nintendo Switch recognizes the Nitro Deck as a controller, you must enable Pro Controller Wired Communication in the Switch's system settings:
- From the Nintendo Switch Home Menu, select System Settings.
- Scroll down the left-hand menu and select Controllers and Sensors.
- Scroll down and select Pro Controller Wired Communication to turn it On.
3. Operating Modes
3.1. Handheld Mode
When your Nintendo Switch console is inserted into the Nitro Deck, it operates in handheld mode by default, providing a comfortable and responsive gaming experience.
3.2. Wired Mode (for Docked Switch or PC)
The Nitro Deck can also be used as a wired controller for your docked Nintendo Switch or a PC. This eliminates wireless interference and provides a consistent, low-latency connection.

The USB-C output port on the Nitro Deck, used for wired mode.
Activating Wired Mode:
- Connect a USB-C cable to the Output port on the back of your Nitro Deck.
- Connect the other end of the USB-C cable to a USB port on your Nintendo Switch dock or your PC.
- Once the CRKD LED on the Nitro Deck lights up white, press and hold both the left and right thumbsticks down simultaneously for approximately 3 seconds.
- The CRKD LED will turn orange, indicating that the Nitro Deck is now in Wired Mode.
Deactivating Wired Mode (Returning to Handheld Mode):
- While in Wired Mode, press and hold both the left and right thumbsticks down simultaneously for approximately 3 seconds.
- The CRKD LED will turn white, indicating that the Nitro Deck has returned to Handheld Mode. You can then remove the USB-C cable from the Output port.
3.3. Feature Breakdown Video
Official CRKD Nitro Deck Feature Breakdown and FAQ. This video provides detailed visual instructions for many features, including operating modes, thumbstick toppers, back buttons, and turbo function.
4. Features
4.1. Zero Stick Drift Hall Effect Thumbsticks
The Nitro Deck is equipped with Hall effect thumbsticks, which use magnets and electrical current to detect position, eliminating physical contact wear and tear. This design prevents stick drift, ensuring precise and reliable control throughout the lifespan of your controller.

Detail of the Hall Effect Thumbsticks, designed for precision and longevity.
4.2. Swappable Thumbstick Toppers
The thumbstick toppers on the Nitro Deck are replaceable, allowing for customization and easy replacement of worn-out toppers. This helps maintain the feel and responsiveness of your controller.
Replacing Thumbstick Toppers:
- Grip the existing thumbstick topper.
- Gently twist and pull upwards to remove the topper.
- Align your preferred replacement topper with the thumbstick stem.
- Push down firmly until it slides securely into place.

A selection of swappable thumbstick toppers, allowing for personalized grip and style.
4.3. Programmable Back Buttons
The Nitro Deck features four programmable back buttons (S1, S2, S3, S4) for enhanced control and quick access to common inputs. Out of the box, they have standard programming:
- S1 is bound to ZR
- S2 is bound to R
- S3 is bound to ZL
- S4 is bound to L

The programmable back buttons on the Nitro Deck, offering customizable control.
Remapping Back Buttons:
- Locate the PROG button on the back of the Nitro Deck and hold it down.
- The CRKD LED will flash purple. You have 10 seconds to input the button(s) you wish to program. You can program single inputs or a sequence of inputs (e.g., A, B, X).
- After inputting your desired button(s), press the specific back button (S1, S2, S3, or S4) you want to assign them to.
- The CRKD LED will turn white, indicating successful programming.
Resetting Back Buttons to Standard Programming:
- To reset a single back button: Hold down the PROG button until the CRKD LED flashes purple, then press the specific back button you want to reset. The LED will turn white.
- To reset all back buttons: Hold down the PROG button for 5 seconds. The CRKD LED will flash purple, then turn solid purple, and finally turn white. The Nitro Deck will vibrate to confirm.
Clearing Back Button Bindings (No Function):
If you prefer a back button to have no function:
- Hold down the PROG button for 7 seconds.
- The CRKD LED will flash purple, then turn solid purple, and finally turn white. The Nitro Deck will vibrate to confirm that all back buttons have been cleared of any programming.
4.4. Turbo Function
The Turbo function allows you to assign a button to rapidly spam inputs while held down.
Activating Turbo Mode:
- Hold down the ZL button and the Minus (-) button simultaneously until the CRKD LED flashes green.
- The LED will flash at the current turbo speed. You can adjust this speed by pressing the Plus (+) button to increase speed or the Minus (-) button to decrease speed. The Nitro Deck will vibrate when at the fastest or slowest setting.
- Once you've selected your desired speed, press the button you wish to apply Turbo to.
- The CRKD LED will remain a solid green, indicating that Turbo Mode is active for the selected button.
Deactivating Turbo Mode:
- Hold down the ZL button and the Minus (-) button simultaneously again.
- The CRKD LED will flash green and then turn white, indicating that Turbo Mode has been deactivated.
4.5. Pass-Through Charging
The Nitro Deck features a pass-through charging port, allowing you to charge your Nintendo Switch console while it is inserted in the deck. This ensures uninterrupted gaming sessions.
To Charge Your Switch:
- Connect a USB-C cable to the Input port on the back of your Nitro Deck.
- Connect the other end of the USB-C cable to a power source.
- Your Nintendo Switch will begin charging.
4.6. CRKD Companion App
The CRKD Companion App, part of the innovative True Collection System, allows you to connect with your Nitro Deck to digitally verify ownership, check its rarity ranking, and track its production number. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices.

The CRKD Companion App, providing digital verification and collection features.
4.7. Motion & Vibration Support
The Nitro Deck supports motion controls and rumble feedback, enhancing immersion in compatible games.
5. Maintenance
5.1. Cleaning the Nitro Deck
To maintain the appearance and functionality of your Nitro Deck, especially lighter colored models, regular cleaning is recommended. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the surface. For thumbstick toppers, which may show wear or discoloration over time, they can be removed and gently cleaned with a toothbrush and mild soap, then rinsed and dried thoroughly before reattaching.
6. Troubleshooting
6.1. Controller Not Recognized
If your Nintendo Switch does not recognize the Nitro Deck, ensure that Pro Controller Wired Communication is enabled in the Switch's System Settings (refer to Section 2.3).
6.2. Back Buttons Not Functioning as Expected
If your remapped back buttons are not performing as intended, try resetting them to their standard programming or clearing their bindings (refer to Section 4.3).
6.3. Stick Drift
The Nitro Deck's Hall effect thumbsticks are designed to prevent stick drift. If you experience any issues with stick input, ensure the console is properly seated and try restarting your Switch. If problems persist, contact CRKD customer support.
7. Specifications
- Model Number: 23ND-WW-WH-STANDARD
- Dimensions: 10.04 x 1.77 x 4.41 inches
- Item Weight: 9.5 ounces
- Release Date: October 13, 2023
- Connectivity: USB-C (low latency wired connection)
- Special Features: Hall Effect Thumbsticks, Swappable Thumbstick Toppers, Remappable Back Buttons, Turbo Function, Pass-Through Charging, Motion & Vibration Support, CRKD Companion App compatibility.
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or additional product inquiries, please visit the official CRKD website or contact their customer service. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.





