5 Essential 3D Printed Gaming Accessories
6 min
(source: FreePik)
3D printing gives gamers something off-the-shelf gear rarely does: control. Control over comfort, setup, and how every piece of equipment fits into your play style. Whether you're on PC, console, or deep into tabletop gaming, there's a whole world of printable accessories that don’t just work, they work for you.
You don’t need to go full engineer and build your own mouse from scratch (unless you want to). Even simple upgrades, like better controller grips or custom storage, can make a real difference in how you play. And the best part? These aren’t one-size-fits-all solutions. They're tailored, functional, and often way more useful than anything you’ll find in a plastic clamshell at the mall.
Here are some smart, practical ways to 3D print gaming accessories that actually improve your experience, and look great doing it.
1. Customized Keycaps: Because Your Keyboard Deserves Personality
(source: Cults3D)
Keyboards are no longer just functional, they're visual statements and tactile tools of precision. Swapping out mass-produced keycaps for custom 3D printed keycaps gives you the power to tweak feel, function, and flair.
Want a retro arcade font on your WASD cluster? Prefer textured top layers for muscle memory? Or maybe you're into color-coded hotkeys for better reaction times in FPS or MOBA games? With the right filament and layout, you can 3D print keycaps that match your play style, and your personality.
PLA, ABS, and even flexible TPU materials can be used for everything from sculpted artisan caps to durable, low-profile options for high-speed gaming. And unlike factory sets, you're not stuck with stock.
Looking for a durable key switch tester before committing? That’s another smart use of 3D print gaming resources worth exploring. If you want to dive deeper into customized keycaps, read our blog on How to Create 3D Printed Keycaps for Your Keyboard
And if you’re not ready to dive into the technical side yourself, that’s exactly where Online 3D Printing Instant Quote - JLC3DP step in to bridge the gap between great ideas and real results. Present your ideas here, and we’ll provide you with a free quote! We print, you play.
2. Custom Controller Grips
(source: Reddit)
Factory controllers are built for average hands. Whether you need a better grip, longer handles, or just want to reduce hand fatigue during long sessions, 3D printed controller grips offer a truly ergonomic solution.
From PS5 to Xbox and Switch, printable grip mods are available across platforms, and even better, you can design or tweak files to match your hand size or finger placement. No more slipping mid-match. No more cramped fingers. Just comfort and control made for how you game.
And yes, there are designs that add thumb rest extensions, trigger stops, or molded finger grooves. Total control, zero compromise.
3. Thumbstick Grips and Savers
(source: Cults3D)
Precision in competitive gaming often comes down to micro-movements, and that's where 3D printed thumbstick grips and savers shine. They enhance control, improve traction, and can be customized for different stick heights and pressure preferences.
Need added resistance for driving sims? Or extra grip for first-person shooters? 3D printing lets you dial in the exact texture, diameter, and feel you need. And because you’re not relying on bulk manufacturing, you can afford to prototype a few and test what works.
These are especially popular with esports players who want fine-tuned control without spending $50 on third-party accessories.
If you're into practical upgrades beyond just gaming, you’ll definitely want to check out our list of 14 useful 3D prints that just make life easier, packed with smart, printable tools that make daily routines easier.
4. Display Stands, Charging Stations & Mounts
(source: Cults3D)
You’ve put time into your rig, so why hide it? One of the fastest-growing corners of 3D print gaming accessories includes stands and display solutions that combine functionality with visual flex.
Print a PS5 stand with a cooling fan slot. Design a Switch dock that doubles as a charging hub. Or build modular controller holders with your gamer tag etched right in. If your gear deserves more than a drawer or tangled cable heap, 3D printing gives you total freedom to organize in style.
Many creators also print collectible figure stands or wall mounts for VR headsets. It's the kind of tailored setup you'd expect from premium brands, but built by you (or by us, if you're not into printing yourself).
5. 3D Printed Switch Game Holders
(source: Mario Question Block Switch Game Holder (3D Printed) – Arcane3D)
Switch cartridges are tiny, which makes them convenient, and ridiculously easy to lose. If you’re tired of digging through drawers or juggling plastic cases, 3D printing your own Switch game holders is a clean, space-saving fix.
There are plenty of downloadable designs, from minimalist stands to compact snap-shut cases that hold 4, 8, even 20+ games in one tidy spot. Want a holder shaped like Mario’s mystery box? Done. Prefer a slim insert that slides right into your Switch carry case? That’s printable too.
You can even personalize your holder with color-coded slots or raised lettering for quick access. It’s a small upgrade that makes a big difference in how you store, and find, your favorite games. No more lost cartridges. No more cracked cases. Just smart storage, dialed into your setup.
Why Gamers Are Turning to 3D Printing
● Affordability: Once you’ve got your files and materials, printing your own accessories can cost a fraction of the price of store-bought versions.
● Customization: Color, size, feel, it’s all in your hands. Literally.
● Community-Driven: From Thingiverse to Cults3D, there’s a massive ecosystem of gaming designs constantly being shared, upgraded, and tested.
● Sustainability: Print only what you need. Upgrade only what’s worn. Reduce e-waste and mass production dependency while leveling up your gear.
The beauty of 3D print gaming accessories isn’t just about having cool gear, it’s about control. Control over design, comfort, cost, and creativity. These examples were just the tip of the iceberg.
Next time you’re scrolling through overpriced accessories that still don’t feel quite right, just remember: you don’t have to settle. You can print it better.
Keep Learning
Free! Top 3D Print Christmas Tree Topper Designs Revealed
Why Store-Bought Tree Toppers Are Boring Walk into any store in December, and you’ll see the same thing every year: thin plastic stars, flimsy metal spirals, and mass-produced toppers that look fine from far away but feel cheap the second you touch them. They’re designed to be generic, not to actually fit your tree, match your style, or last more than one season. Before choosing a topper style, it helps to understand how different Christmas tree models behave during printing. If you haven’t seen it ye......
Stop Fails! 3D Print a Christmas Tree: Zero-Warp Guaranteed
Most 3D Christmas tree prints that fail come down to just three extremely common mistakes: using the wrong material, getting lazy with the temperature settings, or totally skipping the final finishing work. It's not bad printers. It's not "bad luck." It's just a sloppy setup. That's why so many people end up just tossing plastic trees in the trash. It's easier to just impulse-buy some cheap, glossy store mass-produced decorations that look the same as everyone else's. But DIY holiday decor is huge rig......
3D Christmas Trees and Holiday Crafts You Can Print
Why 3D Print a Christmas Tree This Year? There’s something oddly satisfying about pulling out the same old Christmas box every year… until you realise you’ve been hanging the exact same tree ornaments since you were twelve. Instead of buying whatever the store has left on the shelf in week two of December, you can print exactly what you want, your style, your size, your colours, your weird little ideas that no one else’s tree will ever have. Want a mini 3D Christmas tree for your desk? Customize it. A......
Top Sites to Find Cute 3D Prints Free & Printable Models
Why Download Cute 3D Prints for Free? Half the fun of 3D printing is hunting for the next cute thing to bring to life. Want a sleepy cat, a mini ghost, or a mini koala planter? There’s a whole world of cute 3D prints free for anyone with a printer and a bit of curiosity. Downloading cute 3D models for printing isn’t just about saving money (though that’s a nice bonus). It’s about experimentation, trying new styles, testing materials, and learning how different designs behave on your printer. Free mode......
Cute 3D Printed Animals You’ll Love: Dragons, Cats & More
There’s just something about 3D printed animals that hits different. Maybe it’s a baby dragon curling up on your desk, or a chubby cat holding a fish. They don’t need to be big or practical, they’re just fun. You print one, then suddenly you’ve got a whole shelf of them staring back at you like a little zoo. Dragons, frogs, axolotls, bunnies, everyone’s got their favorite. Some people paint them, some just collect the prints. Either way, they’re the kind of projects that remind you why you got into 3D......
Looking for Cute 3D Printed Gifts for Someone Special?
Looking for a unique, heartfelt gift that doesn’t feel like another last-minute store grab? 3D printing lets you create something personal, the kind of gift that says, “I actually thought about this.” Is a birthday coming up? An anniversary? Or just wanting to give a random “thinking of you” surprise? Cute 3D printed gifts are perfect for adding a personal touch. You can print just about anything, a tiny name pot, a goofy trinket, maybe even a pair of earrings or a desk buddy plant. Whatever fits the ......