Genki Covert Dock Mini review: 'a secret weapon'

Genki Covert Dock Mini with Nintendo Switch on a matte black background
(Image: © Future)

GamesRadar+ Verdict

The Genki Covert Dock Mini achieves everything its predecessor set out to do but in a slicker, smaller form factor that will keep travelers lighter when taking their console on the road. While you do make some sacrifices for that size and lower price point, it still does what it says on the tin particularly well.

Pros

  • +

    Particularly small and portable

  • +

    Two-tone design feels slick and streamlined

  • +

    4K resolution for Steam Deck docking

  • +

    Satisfying plug and play solution

Cons

  • -

    No USB-A port

  • -

    No additional plug outlet options

Why you can trust GamesRadar+ Our experts review games, movies and tech over countless hours, so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about our reviews policy.

The Genki Covert Dock Mini is every traveler's secret weapon, a Nintendo Switch dock small enough to slip into a pocket for big-screen gaming wherever you are. All you'll need is an HDMI and the included USB-C cable and you're good to go. The previous release, the larger Genki Covert Dock has sat atop our guide to the best Nintendo Switch accessories for a while now, but the Mini shrinks all that power into an even more portable form factor. Yes, you're dropping the USB-A port for charging or connecting other accessories, but at its core, the sheer size difference is working particularly hard in your favor. 

I took the Genki Covert Dock Mini out and about to see just how much of a difference those millimeters make. 

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Key Specs
Price$49.99 / £44.99
Dimensions34.5 x 42 x 33mm
Power output20W
Video output4K @ 30fps | 1080p @ 60fps
CompatibilityNintendo Switch, Steam Deck, PC, iPad, Android
PortsHDMI, USB-C

Design

  • Extremely small dock and charger
  • Slick aesthetic feels far more premium than original 
  • UK plug won't fit into Switch case but US might

One thing is immediately apparent by just looking at the Genki Covert Dock Mini box; this thing is significantly smaller than the original. Side by side it's incredible to see how much has been shaved off the final chassis in the latest release. Even the outlet plug adapter has been streamlined to sit flush with the main body, making everything feel particularly snug. I still wasn't able to comfortably keep the Mini in a clamshell Nintendo Switch case, largely due to the side of a UK plug and the wings on each side of that connection. A US plug is far more likely to slot neatly into a case, though - something the original Covert Dock couldn't dream of. 

Genki Covert Dock Mini with original Genki Covert Dock on a matte black background

(Image credit: Future)

We've also moved away from a stock black aesthetic this time as well. The Mini sports a white body with a black plug at one end and port panel at the other. It's a slick design that feels far more premium than the slightly translucent plastic of its predecessor. Beyond the actual size, this aesthetic makes for a more streamlined design overall, which means I can't help but feel like the Mini is a far more sophisticated device - despite the fact it's actually dropping features away from the main model.

Features

  • No options for additional plug outlets
  • Removes USB-A port from original model
  • 4K 30fps resolution available for Steam Deck

There are two things to consider here. The first is easily solved - the Mini doesn't ship with additional plug options for different regions. That means you won't be sliding a new outlet into your device for every country you'll be visiting on your travels. Of course, in everyday use, that's not going to make as much of a difference as the lack of a USB-A port. 

Genki Covert Dock Mini ports

(Image credit: Future)

This time last year I wouldn't have batted an eyelid at this sacrifice - I seldom plug accessories directly into my Switch dock. However, I've been using the Hori Split Pad Pro and its attachment piece for some time now - and can't with the Covert Dock Mini. In fact, you won't be able to use any wired controllers with your console in docked mode now - which cuts out some multiplayer functionality and those using a cheaper Nintendo Switch controller for a more traditional gamepad feel.

The Covert Dock Mini has been designed to come in clutch on the go - and often you won't be transporting a whole case of controllers and wires with you when you're out and about. In fact, I noticed the lack of a USB-A port more when I realized how much I had come to rely on the everyday charging capabilities of the original model. Packing up for a weekend away, I realized I would need a separate adapter for my phone and tablet, though this is only because I'm still using USB-A cables.

Genki Covert Dock Mini with cable

(Image credit: Future)

Obviously, that's going to be a bigger problem if you're not using the Genki Covert Dock Mini for Switch. The plug can also act as a Steam Deck dock, but without that USB-A functionality, you'll have to get creative with Bluetooth accessories for a full setup experience. You do, however, get a solid 4K 30fps video output if you are using the Steam Deck. That's impressive considering the previous generation tapped out at the Switch's 1080p max resolution.

The Covert Dock Mini does drop its power output to 20W compared to the original's 30W, but keeps USB-C PD3.0 charging and casting capabilities and, of course, that effortless performance.

Performance

  • Plug and play compatibility
  • No noticeable lag 
  • Excellent picture quality

Once again, this thing just works. I was originally blown away by how easy it was to connect a Nintendo Switch to any display in the full-blown Covert Dock release and that plug-and-play ethos has survived this shrink. There's no faffing with resolutions or settings, and no need for any additional tinkering on the Switch itself - the Genki Covert Dock Mini does exactly what it says on the box. It's a Nintendo Switch dock, shrunk. 

There's no noticeable latency from using a third-party device, and picture quality is as I would expect from an official dock on top. Charge times are on par with your standard Nintendo Switch charger experience, keeping everything slick and running smoothly. 

Genki Covert Dock Mini side

(Image credit: Future)

Those concerned about picking up a third-party dock needn't be. Like with the original model, Genki has worked within Nintendo's own power requirements to make sure there's just the right amount of charge heading to your console at any one time. I've been using the Covert Dock for years now, with no concerns about the safety of my device.

Should you buy the Genki Covert Dock Mini?

Genki Covert Dock Mini showing outlet connection on matte black background

(Image credit: Future)

The Genki Covert Dock Mini has earned its spot in my regular setup. While it falls slightly behind the larger Covert Dock in terms of power output, it makes up for this drawback in waves. The smaller form factor is far more suited to everyday portability - you really can leave this in a pouch or pocket and forget about it. Plus, that slick design feels far more streamlined than the comparatively unwieldy full-fat model. 

The lack of a USB-A port is the only factor that could lead me to recommend the main model instead. If you don't need to keep your packing light and regularly charge using USB-A cables, the larger device is going to be better suited. Not only do you get more outlet options (better for worldwide travelers), but you've got more options for accessories and controllers as well. 

In general, though, I'd recommend the majority of Nintendo Switch players looking to boot up their console in different places around the country (or just around the house) check out the cheaper and far more portable Mini. 

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Genki Covert Dock vs Genki Covert Dock Mini
SpecsGenki Covert Dock MiniGenki Covert Dock
Price$49.99 / £44.99$74.99 / £84.99
Dimensions34.5 x 42 x 33mm121 x 107 x 99mm
Power output20W30W
Video output4K @ 30fps | 1080p @ 60fps1080p @ 60fps
CompatibilityNintendo Switch, Steam Deck, PC, iPad, AndroidNintendo Switch, Steam Deck, PC, iPad, Android
PortsHDMI, USB-CHDMI, USB-C, USB-A

How we tested the Genki Covert Dock Mini

I used the Genki Covert Dock Mini alongside the full-sized model and the standard Nintendo Switch dock over a period of two weeks. I also used the Mini model for several trips across the country and used it with the Genki ShadowCast for extended testing across both devices as well. For more information on how we make our recommendations, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy

We're also helping you kit out your setup with the best Nintendo Switch SD cards and the best Nintendo Switch headsets on the market. Or, for more portable options, take a look at the best gaming earbuds we've had our hands on. 

CATEGORIES
Tabitha Baker
Managing Editor - Hardware

Managing Editor of Hardware at GamesRadar+, I originally landed in hardware at our sister site TechRadar before moving over to GamesRadar. In between, I've written for Tom’s Guide, Wireframe, The Indie Game Website and That Video Game Blog, covering everything from the PS5 launch to the Apple Pencil. Now, i'm focused on Nintendo Switch, gaming laptops (and the keyboards, headsets and mice that come with them), PS5, and trying to find the perfect projector. 

Read more
BenQ Steam Deck dock next to handheld on woodgrain desk
BenQ GR10 Steam Deck dock review: "I’ve waited years for this HDMI 2.1 docking station"
mClassic upscaler sitting on Nintendo Switch with Mario Kart on screen and Skyward Sword Joycon attached on woodgrain desk.
This Switch gadget could save the handheld from my junk drawer once its sequel arrives, and it's down to a decent price
Genki Covert Dock plugged into Nintendo Switch console
The best Nintendo Switch charger 2025
Razer Handheld Dock with Steam Deck sitting on cradle, pink and yellow RGB lighting on, and Alienware monitor in background with Tomb Raider Trilogy gameplay on screen.
Razer Handheld Dock review: “Your Steam Deck will ride shiny and Chroma"
Steam Deck with mascot face on screen surrounded by compatible Steam Deck docks
The best Steam Deck dock 2025: the handheld docking stations I'd recommend
Nintendo Switch accessories
The best Nintendo Switch accessories 2025: all the top gadgets for your console
Latest in Accessories
Acefast Desktop Power Station Z4 with transparent front and TFT color screen in view
Acefast Desktop Power Station Z4 review: “I now use this charger for all gaming desk gadgets”
mClassic HDMI upscaler in hand with Nintendo Switch running Super Mario Wonder
Quick - this Prime Day lightning deal just hit a Nintendo Switch accessory I wouldn't dare play without
A screenshot from Starfield overlooking a distant planet and mountains
Xbox proudly claims "no console needed" in new partnership with Amazon, which brings Xbox Game Pass to Fire TV as a "low-cost, convenient, and portable option"
Baseus Blade power bank next to Steam Deck OLED
This chonky power bank saves my Steam Deck during long trips, and it’s down to its lowest price for Memorial Day
Nanoleaf Lines mounted above gaming desk with monitor on top
Nanoleaf Lines review: “Turns out I do enjoy RGB lighting after all”
Eon XBHD adapter next to Xbox console on table
EON XBHD review: “An easy, but imperfect way to play OG Xbox games”
Latest in Reviews
Razer Monitor Stand Chroma on desk with blue lighting reflecting off surface and Alienware gaming monitor on top.
Razer Monitor Stand Chroma review: “a pretty but flawed premium RGB riser for your gaming desk”
Image of the Corsair Virtuoso Max wireless headset sitting on top of a gaming PC case taken by writer Rosalie Newcombe.
Corsair Virtuoso Max Wireless review - a PC headset tour de force
Zombicide box featuring stylized art of survivors fighting zombies
Zombicide 2nd Edition review: "Like a zombie flick brought to tabletop"
Razer Handheld Dock with Steam Deck sitting on cradle, pink and yellow RGB lighting on, and Alienware monitor in background with Tomb Raider Trilogy gameplay on screen.
Razer Handheld Dock review: “Your Steam Deck will ride shiny and Chroma"
Photographs of the Agricola board game in play
Agricola review: "Accurate representation of the highly competitive and often unstable world of agriculture"
Photos taken by writer Rosalie Newcombe of the Shure MV7i microphone, within a pink and white themed room.
Shure MV7i review - convenience and excellence rolled into one superb sounding package