AMVR Controller Grips Pro Review: The Best Way to Ditch Quest 3 Wrist Straps?
Let’s be honest: the default VR controller wrist straps are terrible. They’re flimsy, annoying, and feel like a throwback to the Wii days, forcing you to constantly live in fear of launching a controller across the room. I was tired of it, so I’ve been testing out dedicated hand grips for my Quest 3.
These are the AMVR Controller Grips Pro, and after putting them through their paces, they may be the best grips I’ve ever tried. But are they the perfect upgrade for every setup? Here’s my full breakdown.
Installation & Fit
Getting the AMVR grips on is straightforward. It’s a simple, high-quality silicon sleeve that slides directly onto the controller. The only unique step is that the grip’s sturdy plastic inner frame replaces the standard Quest 3 battery door.
During the one-time setup, you’ll want to keep the attached battery-pull ribbon held out of the way as you slide the controller into the grip. Once the controller is fully seated, the new battery door features a small, discreet flap for access. You simply lay the ribbon flat in the empty battery bay, and install your AA battery on top of it. This smart design means you can instantly pop out a dead battery later using the pull-ribbon, a massive improvement over older grips that required removing the entire sleeve for a simple swap.
Once on, the silicon fits perfectly. There’s little to no movement or sagging, even during intense gameplay. It feels like a natural extension of the controller itself.
In-Game Performance & Ergonomics
This is where the AMVR grips truly shine. The ‘Pro’ in the name comes from the extended grip handle, which is a night-and-day improvement over the stock controller’s small size. For me, this extended grip virtually eliminated any hand cramping I’d get during long sessions in action-heavy games like Rager or Arken Age. The silicone material adds a secure, confident feel that the default wrist straps just can’t match, letting you fully immerse yourself in the game.
The Big “Gotcha”: Dock Incompatibility
While the battery design is a huge win, there is one major “gotcha” you need to know, especially if you own other AMVR gear. As I noted in my review of the AMVR CD2 Charging Dock, these exact controller grips are NOT compatible with that dock’s controller charging pins.
The grips cover the contact points, meaning you can’t charge them in the dock. This isn’t a deal-breaker, since you’ll be using the easy-access flap for your rechargeable or disposable AA batteries, but it’s a critical compatibility issue to be aware of.
Pros & Cons
The Verdict: Who Are These Grips For?
So, are the AMVR Controller Grips Pro worth it? For me, the answer is an enthusiastic yes.
The comfort from the extended grip is non-negotiable for me, and the smart battery flap design solves the single biggest annoyance of most other grips on the market. While the lack of compatibility with their own charging dock is a bizarre and frustrating oversight, it’s not a deal-breaker.
If you’re looking for a secure, comfortable grip that helps reduce hand cramping and doesn’t make you dread changing the batteries, these are easily one of the best options available.
