Do New Joy-Cons Come with a Grip? A Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is: No, new Joy-Con controllers purchased separately do not come with a Joy-Con Grip. While the Nintendo Switch console itself includes a standard Joy-Con Grip as part of its bundle, individual Joy-Con sets that you might buy as replacements or extras typically come only with the left and right Joy-Con controllers and a pair of wrist straps. Understanding what you get, and more importantly what you don’t get, with new Joy-Cons is essential for any Switch owner. This article delves into the specifics, clarifying what accessories are included and addressing common questions about Joy-Cons.
Understanding What’s Included with New Joy-Cons
When you purchase a set of new Joy-Cons, either in a new color or as a replacement, the package will generally contain:
- One Left Joy-Con Controller: This is the controller you hold in your left hand, identifiable by the minus (-) button and the capture button.
- One Right Joy-Con Controller: This is the controller you hold in your right hand, identifiable by the plus (+) button and the home button.
- Two Joy-Con Wrist Straps: These are small accessories that attach to the side of each Joy-Con, providing a better grip and a safety mechanism for motion-controlled games.
The crucial item that is not included in this package is the Joy-Con Grip. The grip is a plastic accessory that holds both Joy-Cons together, forming a more traditional gamepad. If you need a grip, you’ll either have to use the one that came with your original Switch console or purchase one separately.
The Purpose of the Joy-Con Grip
The standard Joy-Con Grip that is included with the base Switch console provides a comfortable way to play games when your Switch is docked and connected to a TV. It essentially merges the two Joy-Cons into a more unified, ergonomic controller format. However, this grip does not charge the Joy-Cons.
The Separate Joy-Con Charging Grip
For those who want to charge their Joy-Cons while playing in the grip format, Nintendo offers a separate accessory known as the Joy-Con Charging Grip. This device not only provides the same ergonomic benefit as the standard grip but also includes a charging mechanism that keeps your Joy-Cons powered up. This is typically a separate purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Joy-Cons and Grips
Here are 15 frequently asked questions that further elaborate on the topic of Joy-Cons, grips, and related accessories:
1. Does the Nintendo Switch OLED model include a Joy-Con Grip?
Yes, the Nintendo Switch – OLED Model bundle comes with a slightly different version of the Joy-Con Grip. This is part of the standard package and is included with the console. However, it is important to know it is still the standard grip that does not charge.
2. Do new Joy-Cons come with wrist straps?
Yes, new Joy-Cons come with wrist straps. These are typically a pair of grey straps, included one for each controller. These are designed to provide safety during motion-controlled games and offer an easier way to press the SL and SR buttons.
3. What is the Joy-Con Charging Grip?
The Joy-Con Charging Grip (model No. HAC-012) is a separate accessory that allows you to charge your Joy-Cons while using them in the grip formation. It has a charging indicator LED that lights up when charging and turns off when the controllers are fully charged.
4. Does the standard Joy-Con Grip charge the Joy-Cons?
No, the standard Joy-Con Grip that comes with the Nintendo Switch console does not charge the Joy-Cons. You will need the separate Charging Grip for that function.
5. Are the Joy-Cons that come with the OLED model the same as the regular ones?
Yes, the Joy-Cons that come with the OLED Switch are essentially the same as the ones for the regular Switch, with no changes to their functionality. They are compatible with both models.
6. Do new Joy-Cons still drift in 2023?
Unfortunately, Joy-Con drift is still a problem in 2023. While Nintendo claims to have made improvements, the issue persists in both regular and OLED models. Dust, debris, and wear can cause the analog sticks to malfunction.
7. Does Nintendo still repair drifting Joy-Cons for free in 2023?
Yes, if you live in North America, Nintendo generally offers free repairs for drifting Joy-Cons, even if they are out of warranty. However, this does not guarantee the issue will not reoccur.
8. How long do Joy-Cons last before getting drift?
The time it takes for Joy-Con drift to occur varies. With regular daily use, it can start in about a month, but it depends on usage patterns, environmental factors, and luck.
9. Can Joy-Cons be overcharged?
No, modern Joy-Con charging grips are designed to prevent overcharging. Once the Joy-Cons reach full charge, the charging grip enters sleep mode and stops providing power to the controllers.
10. Why are Joy-Cons so expensive?
Joy-Cons are expensive to manufacture because they pack a lot of technology into a small space. They contain multiple sensors, buttons, and battery technology. Initially, Nintendo was selling them at a loss, but parts have likely become cheaper over time.
11. How do I clean my Joy-Cons to prevent drift?
To clean your Joy-Cons and potentially fix drift, you can try using compressed air or a small brush to remove dust and debris. It’s also possible to use isopropyl alcohol and cotton swabs, but be careful not to get any liquid inside of the controller. Avoid disassembling your Joy-Cons unless you’re comfortable doing so, as this can void the warranty.
12. Can I play multiplayer games with just the included Joy-Cons?
Yes, you can play select games with up to two players using the included Joy-Cons, one controller for each player. For multiplayer games involving more than two players, you’ll need to buy additional controllers.
13. What are the differences between the Pro Controller and Joy-Cons?
The Pro Controller is designed for more traditional, focused gaming, with a comfortable grip and standard button layout. Joy-Cons, on the other hand, are versatile and designed for both motion control and smaller hand sizes, making them great for both child-sized hands and motion gaming.
14. How long does a fully charged Joy-Con battery last?
A fully charged Joy-Con battery can last approximately 20 hours. This duration can vary depending on the software application and the functions being used.
15. What should I do if I want to charge my Joy-Cons while playing docked?
To charge your Joy-Cons while playing docked, you’ll need to purchase the Joy-Con Charging Grip. This accessory allows you to keep playing without worrying about your controllers dying. You can also charge the Joy-Cons by attaching them directly to the docked Nintendo Switch console.
Conclusion
While new Joy-Cons will come with their respective wrist straps, it’s important to remember that they do not include the Joy-Con Grip. This is a crucial distinction to remember when purchasing additional controllers for your Nintendo Switch. To use the grip, you will need to use the one provided with your original Switch console, or purchase either the standard or charging grip separately. By understanding what’s included and what’s not, you can ensure you have all the accessories you need for a seamless gaming experience. Furthermore, being aware of common issues like Joy-Con drift and the options for repair can save you time and money in the long run.