Tech

Review: The Best PlayStation Vita Hand Grips

Choosing the right hand grip for your PlayStation Vita can transform long play sessions from cramped and tiring to comfortable and precise. This guide recommends the top hand grips available today, based on extensive hands-on testing, expert analysis, and careful review of consumer feedback.

How we tested and chose

I evaluated every candidate with the same practical regimen used by handheld-accessory reviewers: real-world play sessions, fit and retention checks, material and finish inspection, and drop/scratch protection assessment. Key test steps:

  • Play test: 3–4 hour sessions across different game genres to judge comfort and thumb fatigue.
  • Fit & retention: repeated attach/detach cycles to ensure the grip stays secure without stressing the Vita shell.
  • Materials and finish: tactile feel, anti-slip coating, and seam quality inspection.
  • Functionality: confirm access to all buttons, triggers, and ports, and check for any interference with inserts or memory cards.
  • Durability checks: light impact and abrasion tests and checking the clip strength and plastic flex.

Factors considered: ergonomics, build quality, compatibility (1000 vs 2000 models), added features (stands, thumb rests), price, and real-user feedback from reviews and support threads. Particular weight was given to grips that improved comfort without compromising safety or obstructing controls.

Best Budget Pick
PS Vita Comfort Grip

PS Vita Comfort Grip

A straightforward, affordable grip designed for the PS Vita 1000. Lightweight, textured rubber coating and compact side contours make extended sessions more comfortable while keeping full access to buttons. An excellent low-cost option for casual players.

$9 from Amazon

Overview

This simple, no-frills grip is built for the PS Vita 1000 and nails the essentials: improved ergonomics, a textured surface, and secure thumb resting points. It’s light and unobtrusive, clips on quickly, and won’t block buttons.

Standout features

  • Rubberized texture for better grip
  • Compact side contours that reduce hand fatigue
  • Easy clip-on design that doesn’t stress the Vita shell

Technical notes: Made of flexible plastic with a textured coating. It’s shaped specifically for the 1000 model and won’t fit the 2000.

Pros: Very affordable, good grip improvement, minimal weight. Cons: Basic protection only, limited padding for very long sessions.

Who it’s for: Gamers on a tight budget or those who want a small, unobtrusive comfort upgrade for the PS Vita 1000.

Premium Choice
Brook Grip & Stand

Brook Grip & Stand

Premium-feeling grip for the PS Vita 2000 with an integrated back support that converts to a viewing stand. Ergonomic shape, protective coverage, and a convertible design make it ideal for both gaming and media consumption.

$12 from Amazon

Overview

This model combines a hand grip with a removable support that doubles as a kickstand—an unusually versatile package for a Vita accessory. The form factor is ergonomic and comfortable for long sessions and adds a layer of protective coverage around the shell.

Standout features

  • Built-in back support that converts into a viewing stand
  • Ergonomic contours with good weight distribution
  • Protective case-like coverage that reduces scratch and drop risk

Technical notes: Designed specifically for the PS Vita 2000. The rear support can be removed to convert the grip into a freestanding holder at an angle suitable for video playback.

Pros: Dual-use as grip and stand, better protection than slim grips, comfortable for extended play. Cons: Larger footprint — bulkier to carry, only compatible with the 2000 model.

Who it’s for: Players who want a premium, multi-function accessory for both gaming and media use on the PS Vita 2000.

Best Value for Money
Comfort Action Grips

Comfort Action Grips

Well-balanced grips for the PS Vita 1000 with oversized action-button zones and satin-finish surfaces. Tested to avoid damage to the console while improving comfort and control for extended play sessions—great value for those who want tactile improvements.

$12 from Amazon

Overview

This grip focuses on ergonomics and prolonged comfort. Oversized action button areas and satin-textured sides create a secure, comfortable hold that reduces thumb fatigue. Manufacturer claims it has been tested to avoid stressing the Vita unit, and the fit feels snug without risking the shell.

Standout features

  • Oversized action-button zones for easier inputs
  • Satin grip finish and textured rubberized triggers for comfort
  • Engineered clip design tested to avoid damage to the Vita shell

Technical notes: Specifically for PS Vita 1000 (PCH-1000). The textured finish is pleasant and reduces slippage even in warm hands.

Pros: Comfortable for long sessions, confident fit, protective design consideration. Cons: Slightly bulkier than the slimmest grips; only for the 1000 model.

Who it’s for: Players seeking a thoughtful balance of comfort, safety, and price for the PS Vita 1000.

Editors Choice
Ergonomic Vita Grip

Ergonomic Vita Grip

A well-rounded ergonomic grip for the PS Vita 2000 offering anti-skid texture, light weight, and good protection against bumps and scratches. The design is compact yet comfortable and installs quickly for plug-and-play convenience.

$10 from Amazon

Overview

This grip stood out in testing for its balance of comfort, protection, and build quality. It’s tailored for the PS Vita 2000, lightweight, and ergonomically contoured with an anti-skid finish that gave the most consistently comfortable feel across different hand sizes.

Standout features

  • Anti-skid ergonomic handle design
  • Durable material with light weight and compact fit
  • Provides solid protection against scratches and minor impacts

Technical notes: Compatible with PSV PCH-2000 only. Installation is easy and the grip does not obstruct ports or buttons.

Pros: Excellent comfort, secure hold, good overall protection. Cons: No kickstand feature; only compatible with PS Vita 2000.

Why it’s the editor’s pick: It delivered the most reliable, comfortable long-session performance across testers while maintaining good protection and ease of use.

Comparison at a glance

  • Editors Choice — Ergonomic Vita Grip (PS Vita 2000): Best all-around, excellent ergonomics and protection for the 2000 model.
  • Premium Choice — Brook Grip & Stand (PS Vita 2000): Best premium feature set; built-in stand and protective coverage make it ideal for media and gaming.
  • Best Value — Comfort Action Grips (PS Vita 1000): Great balance of comfort and safety with oversized action areas and tested clip design.
  • Best Budget — PS Vita Comfort Grip (PS Vita 1000): Lowest price with solid comfort improvements and a lightweight design.

Key differences:

  • Compatibility: Two grips fit the PS Vita 1000 (PS Vita Comfort Grip, Comfort Action Grips) while two are designed for the PS Vita 2000 (Ergonomic Vita Grip, Brook Grip & Stand).
  • Features: Only the Premium Choice offers a convertible stand; the Editor’s Pick prioritizes ergonomics and protection; the Value option emphasizes button comfort and a secure fit.
  • Price: All choices are budget-friendly, but the Premium Choice provides extra versatility for a modest additional cost.

Best overall: Ergonomic Vita Grip (Editors Choice) — it consistently improved comfort and control without tradeoffs in protection or usability.

Final recommendation

After extensive hands-on testing and analysis of real-user feedback, the Ergonomic Vita Grip (Editors Choice) is our top pick for most Vita owners—especially if you own a PS Vita 2000. It provides the best combination of comfort, protection, and everyday usability.

If you frequently watch videos on your Vita or want a more protective, multi-purpose solution, choose the Brook Grip & Stand (Premium Choice). For PS Vita 1000 owners who want the best balance of cost and comfort, the Comfort Action Grips (Best Value) are the smart pick. If you simply need the cheapest effective upgrade, the PS Vita Comfort Grip (Best Budget) gives clear comfort gains at minimal cost.

These recommendations are based on structured play testing, compatibility checks, durability assessments, and a review of user experiences. Pick the model that matches your Vita version (1000 vs 2000) and your priorities—comfort, protection, or multi-functionality—and you’ll see a noticeable improvement to your handheld sessions.