How To Connect Your Nintendo Switch Controller to Another Switch
Connecting your Nintendo Switch controller to a different console is a straightforward process, whether you’re using a Joy-Con or a Pro Controller. Here’s the detailed step-by-step guide:
- Navigate to the HOME Menu: On the Nintendo Switch console you wish to connect to, press the HOME button on either a paired controller or the console itself. This will take you to the HOME Menu.
- Select “Controllers”: On the HOME Menu, use the directional buttons or control stick to navigate to the “Controllers” icon (it looks like a controller) and press the “A” button to select it.
- Choose “Change Grip/Order”: In the “Controllers” menu, select “Change Grip/Order”. This will prepare the console to receive a new controller pairing.
- Initiate Pairing on the Controller: Now, on the controller you wish to connect, press and hold down the SYNC button for at least one second. The SYNC button is a small, usually black button, typically located on the top of a Joy-Con (between the SR and SL buttons) and on the back of the Pro Controller. Once pressed, the controller’s player LEDs will start flashing indicating it’s in pairing mode.
- Wait for Connection: After you press the SYNC button the controller will now attempt to connect to the console. Once the connection is successful, the player LED(s) will remain lit, signifying that the pairing is complete. The screen will display a message confirming the pairing.
That’s it! Your Nintendo Switch controller is now paired with your chosen console. If you are using a Joy-Con pair, both will be paired at the same time with the same process. If you encounter any problems, refer to the troubleshooting section below for further assistance. Keep in mind that a controller can only be paired to one console at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Nintendo Switch Controllers
How many controllers can you pair to a Nintendo Switch?
You can pair up to 8 controllers to a Nintendo Switch console. This allows for large multiplayer sessions with friends and family.
Can I use my Joy-Cons on another Switch?
Yes, you can use your Joy-Cons on another Switch console. They just need to be paired to the new console by following the pairing process. Remember that each controller is only able to be paired to one console at any given time.
Can I mix and match Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons?
Absolutely. You can mix and match any left Joy-Con with any right Joy-Con. You’re not limited to using only matching color sets. This provides lots of flexibility for player preferences.
Can you have two Nintendo Switches in the same household?
Yes, you can have multiple Nintendo Switch consoles in the same household. However, only one console can be designated as the primary console for your Nintendo Account. Digital games purchased through your Nintendo Account can only be played without restrictions on the primary console, although they can be played on a non-primary console if the account is active.
Do I need extra controllers for my Nintendo Switch?
The Nintendo Switch comes with two Joy-Cons, which allow for two-player gaming right out of the box. However, if you want to play games with 3+ players, you’ll need to purchase additional controllers.
Can I play Switch games on TV?
Yes, you can play Nintendo Switch games on your TV. You can use a TV Mode by placing the console in the dock, connect an HDMI to your TV, and using your controllers to play. The switch is designed to be used in both handheld mode and TV mode.
How do I charge my extra Switch controller?
The simplest way to charge Nintendo Switch controllers is to dock them onto the sides of the console when it is connected to power. If the Switch is not charging, you can use a third party charging dock, USB wall charger, or a power bank.
How long do Switch controllers last on a full charge?
Joy-Con controllers take about three and a half hours to fully charge. Once fully charged, they should last approximately 20 hours, though this can vary depending on the software being used.
Do Joy-Cons charge when the Switch is off?
If you use the Nintendo Switch console to charge your Joy-Cons, they will not charge when the console is turned off. However, using an alternate charging method such as a separate charging dock, will continue charging your controllers even when the console is turned off.
How do you charge Joy-Cons without a Switch?
You can charge Joy-Cons without a Switch console by using a Joy-Con Charging Grip. This is an optional accessory that is available for separate purchase. You connect the charging cable directly to the grip and it will charge any controllers that are attached to it.
Can 2 people play Nintendo Switch?
Yes, you can play many games with two players right away as the Switch comes with two Joy-Cons. You can detach a Joy-Con from either side of the console and use it as an independent controller.
Can you play a Nintendo Switch on a plane?
You can play games on your Nintendo Switch on a plane. You will need to put your Switch in airplane mode to disable all wireless communications before doing so, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Can you play Switch games on your phone?
While you cannot directly play Switch games on your phone, the Nintendo Switch Online app can be downloaded to your smart device (available on iOS and Android). The app is designed to improve the experience of playing certain online games.
Is it better to get Joy-Cons or a Pro Controller?
It depends on what you want to prioritize. Joy-Cons are great for casual gaming, playing on the go, and supporting multiple players with smaller hand sizes. The Pro Controller is generally better for single player gaming with precision controls and a more ergonomic grip, improving the comfort for longer gaming sessions.
Why won’t my Switch controller connect?
If your controller is not connecting, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Make sure your Nintendo Switch and the controller are both fully charged.
- Ensure you are following the correct pairing procedure outlined at the beginning of the article.
- Check that the Switch console’s firmware is up-to-date.
- Make sure you are correctly docking the Switch and Controllers.
- Try restarting both the console and the controller.
- Ensure the controller you are trying to connect is not already paired to another device.
If you are still encountering issues, you may need to contact Nintendo Support for further assistance.