Why won’t my Switch Controllers connect wirelessly?

Your Nintendo Switch controllers may not connect wirelessly due to a variety of reasons, including low battery, interference, or outdated system software, which can be resolved by checking the controller’s battery level, resetting the controller, or updating the Switch’s system software. To establish a stable wireless connection, ensure that your Joy-Con controllers are properly paired with your Nintendo Switch console and that there are no obstacles blocking the signal.

Understanding Wireless Connectivity Issues

Wireless connectivity issues with Nintendo Switch controllers can be frustrating, but most problems can be resolved with simple troubleshooting steps.

Troubleshooting Steps

To troubleshoot wireless connectivity issues, start by checking the battery level of your Joy-Con controllers and ensure they are fully charged. If the issue persists, try resetting the controller by pressing the Sync button on the top or side of the Joy-Con, then press any other button on the controller to restart it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions related to wireless connectivity issues with Nintendo Switch controllers:

1. How do I get my wireless controller to work on my Nintendo Switch? To get your wireless controller to work on your Nintendo Switch, select “Controllers” on the HOME Menu, then select “Change Grip/Order”, and hold the SYNC Button on the controller you want to pair until the controller LED starts flashing.
2. Why is my Switch controller lights blinking up and down? The blinking lights on your Switch controller can indicate a low battery, so try syncing it again or recharging the battery to see if it stops.
3. Why is my controller flashing twice but not turning on? If your controller is flashing twice but not turning on, it may be due to low batteries, so try plugging it in to recharge.
4. How do I fix an unresponsive Switch controller? To fix an unresponsive Switch controller, ensure your console has the latest system update, charge the Joy-Con controllers, and try decreasing the distance between the Joy-Con and the Nintendo Switch console.
5. Why won’t my Joy-Con connect to Bluetooth? If your Joy-Con won’t connect to Bluetooth, try attaching it to the console and ensuring it’s correctly oriented and inserted all the way, then try detaching and reattaching the Joy-Con to the console a few times.
6. Why are my Joycons not connecting to Bluetooth? If your Joycons are not connecting to Bluetooth, try resetting your controller by pressing the Sync button on the top or side of the Joy-Con, then press any other button on the controller to restart it.
7. Why are my Joycons not connecting? If your Joycons are not connecting, ensure your console has the latest system update, charge the Joy-Con controllers, and try decreasing the distance between the Joy-Con and the Nintendo Switch console.
8. How do I reset my power wireless switch controller? To reset your power wireless switch controller, hold the program button down for 2 seconds, then press and hold the program button for 5 seconds to reset to no function.
9. How do you reset the Joy-Con pairing? To reset the Joy-Con pairing, press the SYNC Button once on each Joy-Con controller while they are detached from the console, then attach the Joy-Con to the console and connect the AC adapter directly to the console and to a wall outlet.
10. What to do if wireless Bluetooth is not connecting? If wireless Bluetooth is not connecting, try turning Bluetooth off and then on again, clearing devices from your phone’s memory, and resetting your devices.
11. Why is my wireless Bluetooth not connecting? If your wireless Bluetooth is not connecting, it may be due to devices being out of range or not in pairing mode, so try resetting your devices or having your phone or tablet “forget” the connection.
12. Where is the sync button on Joy-Con? The Sync button on Joy-Con is a small circular button usually located on the top of the controller, which you need to press and hold for about five seconds to pair a new controller or Joy-Con.
13. How long is Joy-Con warranty? The Joy-Con warranty is twelve months from the date of purchase, during which Nintendo warrants that the hardware product shall be free from defects in material and workmanship.
14. How do I force Bluetooth to connect? To force Bluetooth to connect on an Android device, navigate to Android -> Advanced Restrictions -> Allow Network Settings and enable the ‘Force Bluetooth’ option.
15. How do I reset my wireless Bluetooth? To reset your wireless Bluetooth on an Android phone or tablet, go to Settings > System > Advanced > Reset options > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile, & Bluetooth, then enter your phone’s PIN if asked.