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Can You Pair Two Different Joy-Cons? A Comprehensive Guide

Yes, absolutely! You can pair two different Joy-Cons with your Nintendo Switch console. In fact, you can pair up to ten Joy-Con controllers with a single console. This capability allows for versatile gameplay, whether you’re enjoying solo adventures, cooperative quests, or competitive multiplayer experiences. The flexibility to use different Joy-Cons, mixed and matched, significantly enhances the Switch’s appeal as a social gaming platform.

Understanding Joy-Con Pairing

The Nintendo Switch is designed to be adaptable, and its controller system is a prime example of this. Each Joy-Con can operate individually, as a pair, or in combination with other controllers. This means you aren’t limited to using only the Joy-Cons that came with your console. Whether you purchase additional sets for extra players or need to replace a damaged controller, you can freely mix and match Joy-Cons of different colors and configurations.

How to Pair Joy-Cons

Pairing Joy-Cons is usually a straightforward process. Here’s how you can do it:

Direct Attachment: The simplest method is by attaching the Joy-Cons directly to the console. When you slide them onto the sides of the Switch, they will automatically pair and become usable. Once paired, they can be detached and continue to function wirelessly.
Wireless Pairing from HOME Menu: For wireless pairing of additional Joy-Cons, navigate to the HOME Menu on your Nintendo Switch. Select the “Controllers” icon, then choose “Change Grip/Order.”
- For the first four controllers, you’ll generally press the L and R buttons on each Joy-Con to pair.
- To pair additional Joy-Cons (5 or more), go back to the “Controllers” screen (the screen before “Change Grip/Order”). Here, you can press any button on the extra controller to pair it. You don’t need to use the L and R buttons for these additional Joy-Cons.

Joy-Con Configurations

The versatility of Joy-Cons allows for different grip configurations, further enhancing your gaming experience.

Combined Grip: When attached to the console or the Joy-Con grip accessory, the two Joy-Cons operate as a single standard controller.
Solo Horizontal Grip: Each Joy-Con can be used separately in a horizontal orientation. This allows two players to game using just the two Joy-Cons that came with the console.
Dual Solo Grip: Each player can also use a single detached Joy-Con in each hand for a different style of control.

Why Pair Different Joy-Cons?

Pairing different Joy-Cons can be useful for several reasons:

Multiplayer: Play with friends and family using different controller colors to avoid confusion.
Replacement: If one Joy-Con is damaged or not working, you can easily use a replacement without any compatibility concerns.
Customization: Mix and match colored Joy-Cons to create your unique setup.
Enhanced Gameplay: Some players prefer different grip options, and using different Joy-Cons allows them to personalize their gaming experience.

Troubleshooting Pairing Issues

While Joy-Con pairing is generally seamless, occasional issues might arise. Here are a few tips to address common problems:

Not Connecting?

Reattach and Detach: Firmly reattach the Joy-Cons to the console, ensuring they are securely in place. If the connection fails, detach and reattach them again.
Try Different Joy-Cons: If the problem persists, test with another Joy-Con to isolate whether the issue is with the controller or the console.
Sync Button: Press the SYNC button on each Joy-Con to interrupt wireless communication, then reconnect by pressing any directional or A/B/X/Y buttons.
Reset: Reset a detached Joy-Con by pressing the SYNC button once, then any other button to power it back on.

One Joy-Con Not Working?

Check Connection: Verify that the Joy-Con is correctly oriented and inserted all the way when attached to the console.
Reattach Multiple Times: Try detaching and reattaching the Joy-Con a few times.
Test Another Controller: Try using a different Joy-Con to check if the issue is with that particular controller.

Buttons Not Responding?

SL/SR Cable: If the SL/SR buttons aren’t working, the issue could be a bent SL/SR button board cable, which affects the SYNC button, LED lights, and connection.
Reset: Resetting the controller by using the SYNC Button may resolve the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many controllers can I pair with my Nintendo Switch at once?

You can pair up to eight controllers with your Nintendo Switch simultaneously, regardless of the controller type (Joy-Con, Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, etc.). However, you can pair up to 10 Joy-Cons with the Nintendo Switch.

2. Can I use a single Joy-Con to play games?

Yes, each Joy-Con can be used independently to play games on the Nintendo Switch. This is especially useful for multiplayer games where each player uses a single Joy-Con.

3. Why won’t my Joy-Cons connect to each other?

Ensure that both Joy-Cons are firmly reattached to the console. If the issue persists, try detaching and reconnecting them. If the problem is still not solved, try using other Joy-Cons to isolate the issue.

4. How do I reset my Joy-Cons?

With the Joy-Con detached, press the SYNC Button once to reset the controller. Then press any other button to power it back on.

5. Why is only one of my Nintendo controllers working?

Try pressing the SYNC Button on all of your controllers several times. Then, reconnect the controller by pressing any directional button or the A/B/X/Y buttons.

6. What does SL mean on a Switch Joy-Con?

The SL button refers to the left shoulder button on the Joy-Con when it is detached from the console.

7. Why won’t my Switch controller work sideways?

Ensure the Joy-Con is detached and in solo horizontal grip. From the HOME Menu, go to Controllers, then Change Grip/Order, and press the SL + SR Buttons.

8. Can I use different Joy-Cons for different players?

Yes, you can freely use different colored Joy-Cons for different players in multiplayer games.

9. Is there a limit to the types of Joy-Cons I can pair with my Switch?

You can pair any official Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons, regardless of color or design, with your console.

10. What if my Joy-Cons are drifting?

Nintendo offers free Joy-Con repairs for drifting issues, even outside the 24-month warranty period.

11. Do I need the L and R buttons to pair all Joy-Cons?

While you typically use L and R buttons to pair the first four controllers, when pairing 5 or more controllers, you can press any button on the Joy-Con to pair it.

12. Can I use third-party Joy-Con controllers?

While third-party options exist, compatibility and performance may vary. It’s best to use official Nintendo Joy-Cons for the best experience.

13. What if I have trouble pairing my Joy-Cons wirelessly?

Make sure the Joy-Cons are charged. If not, charge them by attaching them to the console and then try pairing them wirelessly. Try restarting your console and your controllers using the SYNC button. Also, check for any obstructions that may interfere with the connection.

14. What if the SYNC button is not working?

If the SYNC button isn’t working, the issue could be related to the SL/SR button board cable. Consider contacting Nintendo customer support for assistance.

15. How can I check if my Joy-Cons are recognized by the console?

After pairing, the controller icon will appear on the Switch’s main menu. You can also verify it in the “Controllers” section within the settings menu.

By understanding the different pairing methods, configurations, and troubleshooting techniques, you can effectively maximize your enjoyment of the Nintendo Switch and its versatile Joy-Con controllers.

Can you pair two different joy cons?