Can I Charge My Switch Pro Controller with Any USB-C?
The short and direct answer is: Yes, you can generally charge your Nintendo Switch Pro Controller with any USB-C charger, but there are important nuances to consider for the best and safest charging experience. While the Pro Controller and the Nintendo Switch console both utilize USB-C ports, not all USB-C chargers are created equal. Understanding the specifications and potential limitations of different chargers is crucial to avoid any damage and ensure your devices charge efficiently. This article will delve into the details, ensuring you have all the information you need for safe and effective charging.
Understanding USB-C and Power Delivery
What is USB-C?
USB-C is a versatile, reversible connector that has become a standard in modern electronic devices. Unlike older USB connectors, USB-C supports faster data transfer speeds and increased power delivery, making it suitable for charging a wide range of devices, from smartphones to laptops. The Nintendo Switch console and the Pro Controller both use USB-C for their charging and data transfer needs.
Power Delivery (PD) and Charging
Power Delivery (PD) is a protocol that allows USB-C devices to negotiate higher power levels for faster charging. The Nintendo Switch is compatible with Power Delivery, which means it can handle higher voltages and currents from compatible chargers to replenish its battery more quickly than with a standard USB charger. A USB-C PD charger typically provides variable voltage output based on the requirements of the connected device.
Charging Your Switch Pro Controller
Compatibility with USB-C Chargers
Your Switch Pro Controller can be charged with virtually any USB-C charger that is compliant with USB-C specifications. This includes the charger that comes with your Nintendo Switch console, as well as many third-party options. However, some important points need attention:
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Voltage and Current: The Nintendo Switch can accept a USB-C charger with a power delivery (PD) profile of 15V/2.6A. This doesn’t mean you need a charger that only outputs this; it means the charger should be capable of delivering these specifications if the device requests it. Many USB-C PD chargers offer a range of voltage and current options. If you’re using a basic USB charger that doesn’t offer PD, the Pro controller will still charge, but potentially at a slower rate.
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Quality and Safety: It is crucial to opt for chargers from reputable brands that have built-in safety features. These features include protection against over-voltage, over-current, and over-temperature, all of which can potentially damage your controller and other devices.
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Cable Quality: The USB-C cable that you use also matters. Make sure to use a high-quality, durable cable that’s capable of handling the power output for charging without any disruptions. A low-quality cable could impede the charging process or cause electrical issues.
USB-A to USB-C Charging
The Switch Pro controller can also be charged with a USB-A to USB-C cable via a USB-A port, like on the Switch Dock. The primary limitation in this configuration is that USB-A ports typically cannot support the Power Delivery profile that many USB-C chargers can provide. While convenient, this method will typically be slower than using a proper USB-C PD charger.
Charging With Phone Chargers
Many modern phones, including both Android and newer iPhones, use USB-C chargers. While it’s okay to use a phone charger for your Switch Pro controller, the charging rate may vary. Most phone chargers offer a sufficient current for a safe and consistent charge, although you might find it takes a little longer compared to a USB-C PD charger. It’s always a good idea to check that the phone charger is from a known brand with safety certifications to avoid electrical risks.
Additional Charging Options
Charging via Nintendo Switch Dock
The Nintendo Switch Dock has USB-A ports that you can use to charge your Pro Controller. Nintendo recommends using the Dock’s USB-A ports or connecting the included AC adapter directly to the controller for charging. This is a reliable method for those who own a Nintendo Switch Dock.
Charging without the Dock or AC Adapter
You can charge your Pro Controller via a USB wall charger or even a power bank using a compatible USB-C cable. These methods work well if you’re away from your home setup.
Things to Avoid
Laptop Chargers
While many modern laptops use USB-C chargers, it is generally not advisable to use them to charge your Switch Pro Controller (or the console itself) without careful consideration. Laptop chargers are designed to provide a higher voltage and power output than the Switch or Pro Controller typically require. Using an incompatible charger can lead to damage. If you choose to use a laptop charger, ensure that it is compliant with the Power Delivery standards required by the Switch devices and ideally, capable of reducing its output when charging smaller devices.
Poor Quality Chargers and Cables
Always avoid using unbranded or suspiciously cheap chargers and cables. These often lack crucial safety features and might not provide consistent power, which could damage your Pro Controller.
Conclusion
In summary, you can charge your Nintendo Switch Pro controller with almost any USB-C charger. However, focusing on using high-quality chargers from reputable brands with the correct voltage and current capabilities (ideally supporting Power Delivery) is crucial for both safety and efficiency. Using a USB-C PD charger is generally the best method, while the Switch Dock and other USB-C compatible chargers work adequately. Avoid unreliable and high-voltage chargers to protect the longevity of your device.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it safe to use a non-Nintendo USB-C charger?
Yes, it is generally safe to use a non-Nintendo USB-C charger for your Pro Controller, as long as it is from a reputable brand and has safety protections for over-voltage, over-current, and over-temperature.
2. Can I use an Apple iPhone charger for my Switch Pro Controller?
Yes, you can use an Apple iPhone charger with a USB-C connector to charge your Pro Controller, but its charging speed might be lower compared to a USB-C PD charger.
3. Will any USB-C cable work with the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller?
Yes, any USB-C cable will work, but for the best charging performance, use a high-quality cable capable of handling the desired power output without any problems.
4. Can I charge my Switch Pro Controller with a portable power bank?
Absolutely. You can use a USB-C power bank to charge your Pro Controller, making it a convenient option for on-the-go charging.
5. Does leaving my Pro Controller plugged in damage the battery?
No, modern charging systems, including the Pro Controller’s, are designed to stop charging once the battery is full, preventing any damage from overcharging.
6. How long does it take to fully charge a Switch Pro Controller?
It takes approximately six hours for a full charge of the Pro Controller. The recharge LED will turn off once the controller is fully charged.
7. Can I charge the Pro Controller through the Switch console?
Yes, you can charge the Pro Controller by connecting it to one of the USB ports on the Nintendo Switch Dock. You can also connect it to the Switch AC adapter.
8. Can I charge a Pro Controller if the Switch is turned off?
If you are using the Nintendo Switch console to charge the controller, they will not charge when the console is turned off. However, if you are using a wall charger or power bank, the controller will charge even when the console is off.
9. Is it okay to use a MacBook Pro charger for my Switch Pro controller?
Yes, but be cautious. Make sure the MacBook charger is USB-C and has the capability to reduce its power output to be compatible with the Switch. Laptop chargers typically provide more power than needed, potentially damaging the Pro controller if not correctly regulated.
10. Can I charge the Switch Pro controller wirelessly?
No, the Switch Pro Controller does not have native wireless charging capabilities. However, there are third-party charging docks that allow for wireless placement and charging through a USB-C dongle.
11. What type of USB ports are on the Nintendo Switch dock?
The Nintendo Switch Dock has USB-A ports that are typically used for peripherals and charging controllers.
12. Can I use a 65W USB-C charger for my Pro Controller?
Yes, a 65W USB-C charger is generally fine for the Pro Controller, as the device will draw the power it needs. However, it will not charge faster than its maximum charging rate.
13. Can I charge the Joy-Cons with the Pro controller charger?
No, Joy-Cons are not designed to charge with a USB-C connection and are charged through the Switch console or a dedicated charging grip.
14. Does the charge rate matter for the Pro controller?
Yes, the charge rate matters. Using a USB-C PD charger will generally give you the fastest charge, while other chargers may charge slower.
15. Should I buy a Nintendo official charger?
While a Nintendo official charger is a reliable option, as long as the charger you are using meets all safety requirements and provides sufficient power output it will work just as well. Opting for a USB-C PD charger from any reputable brand will be equally effective.