How Long Do Nintendo Switch Controllers Take to Charge?
As any Nintendo Switch owner knows, a fully charged controller is crucial to a seamless gaming experience. Fortunately, the Nintendo Switch controllers are relatively fast to charge, and the battery life is quite impressive. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of how long it takes to charge the standard Joy-Con controllers and the Pro Controller for the Nintendo Switch.
How Long do Nintendo Switch Controllers Take to Charge in General?
The usual charging time for Nintendo Switch controllers is anywhere between 3 to 5.5 hours, depending on the charging cable and method used. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Charging speed using the USB-C charging dock: 3-4 hours for a full charge
- Charging speed using a standard Micro-USB cable: 4-5 hours for a full charge
- Using a wall adapter: 1-2 hours for a quick top-off (recommended for long gaming sessions or extended play)
What Makes the Charging Time Vary?
There are a few factors that contribute to the varying charging times:
• Adapter speed: The speed at which you can charge your controller is affected by the type of adapter you use. USB-C adapters are generally faster than standard Micro-USB adapters.
• Power output: Devices with higher power output, like USB-C chargers or computer ports, can charge your controllers faster.
How to Charge Your Controllers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Charging your controllers couldn’t be simpler. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Method 1: Using the Built-in USB-C Charging Dock
- Step 1: Turn off your Nintendo Switch console
- Step 2: Connect the controller to the charger dock using the included USB-C cable
- Step 3: Allow the controller to charge for 3-4 hours, or until the lights turn on the top of the controller to indicate it’s fully charged
The Pro Controller: A Longer Wait, but Worth It
Even though the Pro Controller charges somewhat slower than the standard Joy-Con controller, it’s a great peripheral for long gaming sessions. As you can see from the chart above, the Pro Controller takes significantly longer to charge than the Joy-Con:
Controller | Charging Time |
Joy-Con | 3-5 hours (average) |
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller | 5-6 hours (estimated) |