How Long Does It Take for a Nintendo Switch to Turn On After the Battery Dies?
The dreaded moment when your Nintendo Switch refuses to power on can be frustrating. Often, the culprit is a completely depleted battery. The good news is that a dead Switch isn’t necessarily a sign of doom. With the correct approach, you can revive it. Generally, after a complete battery drain, it will take at least 15 to 30 minutes of charging before the console will show signs of life. However, to fully charge it and get the maximum play time, you should allow approximately 3 hours of charging. Let’s delve deeper into the process and address some common concerns.
Initial Charging After Complete Battery Drain
When your Nintendo Switch has been completely drained of power, it won’t boot up immediately, even when connected to a power source. The internal battery needs a little boost to initiate the startup sequence.
Minimum Charging Time
You need to let the console charge for a minimum of 15 to 30 minutes before attempting to turn it on again. During this period, the console is essentially taking in enough charge to allow the system to boot up safely. Once it reaches this threshold, you should be able to press the power button, and the console will turn on. If it still does not turn on after this time, leave it to charge for a little longer.
Full Charging Time
While your Switch might turn on after 30 minutes, it is crucial to charge the console fully for the best experience. A full charge usually takes about 3 hours. This will ensure that you have the longest play time and also help maintain the overall health of the battery. The charging time may vary slightly based on the initial charge levels and usage during charging. For instance, if you are playing games while the Switch is charging, it may take longer to achieve a full charge.
Charging Methods
There are two primary methods to charge your Nintendo Switch:
Using the Wall Adapter
The most straightforward way to charge the Switch is by connecting the official Nintendo AC adapter directly to the console’s USB-C port. This method ensures fast and efficient charging. This is especially helpful if your dock isn’t working properly.
Using the Dock
Another common method is to place the Switch in its dock. The dock not only allows you to play on your TV but also charges the console at the same time. A green light on the lower-left side of the dock indicates that the Switch is charging successfully.
Why Your Switch Might Not Turn On Immediately
Sometimes, even after charging, your Switch may be unresponsive. Here are some potential reasons:
Low Battery Power
The most common reason is an extremely low battery power. If the console has been left uncharged for an extended time, it will take a while to gain enough power to operate. Follow the guidelines above to give it sufficient charging time.
Potential Issues
While less common, potential hardware issues such as a damaged AC Adapter or malfunctioning battery could also be behind the issue. If your Switch doesn’t seem to be charging even after extended time, consider these factors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions related to the Nintendo Switch battery and charging:
1. Why won’t my Switch turn on after being dead for a long time?
The most common reason is low or no battery power. Try placing it in the dock and charging it for at least 30 minutes before trying to power on the device.
2. What happens if you don’t charge your Switch for a long time?
If not charged for an extended period, the battery may lose its ability to retain a charge. Nintendo recommends charging at least once every six months.
3. How do you turn on a completely dead Switch?
Hold down the POWER button for 20 seconds. Release, then press it once. This performs a reset.
4. Why does my Switch take forever to turn on?
Your battery may be completely out of charge. Charge it for at least 30 minutes and then try to turn it on again.
5. How do I know if my dead Switch is charging?
When charging, the battery icon at the top-right of the HOME Menu screen will change to a lightning bolt within a battery icon. Additionally, the green light on the bottom left side of your dock will illuminate if it’s charging while docked.
6. How long does my Switch need to charge to use?
At least 15 to 30 minutes to power on from completely drained. For a full charge, give it around 3 hours.
7. Will a Nintendo Switch turn on without a battery?
On startup, the Switch relies almost entirely on the battery. If it does not have sufficient charge, it will not turn on.
8. Is it okay to play Nintendo Switch while charging?
Yes, it is safe to play while charging. As a matter of fact, the Switch is designed to charge while it’s in TV mode.
9. How long will a Nintendo Switch last?
With good care, the lifespan of your Nintendo Switch should be between 6–10 years.
10. Why does my Switch lose battery so fast?
After about 800 charge cycles, the battery’s capacity may decrease to about 80% of a new battery. This is normal wear and tear.
11. How long does it take to charge Switch controllers from dead?
Joy-Con controllers take around 3.5 hours to fully charge. A Pro Controller takes 5 to 6 hours.
12. What does the green light on the Switch dock mean?
A solid green light indicates the Switch is charging while docked and displaying on the TV. If it flashes and turns off, it is typically normal.
13. Is it okay to charge my Nintendo Switch overnight?
Generally, yes. Just ensure your Switch is in a cool environment so the battery won’t overheat.
14. Will the battery get damaged if the Switch is always in its dock?
Leaving the console in the dock or plugged in will not harm the battery. The system is designed to manage its battery when fully charged.
15. What should I do if my Switch is on but the screen is black?
The console may have frozen. If the screen shows a faint light, hold the POWER button for 12 seconds or more to turn the console off and reboot.
Conclusion
A completely drained Nintendo Switch battery is a common occurrence, but it doesn’t have to lead to panic. By understanding the charging process and following the recommended charging times, you can quickly get your Switch back in action. Remember that patience is key and that your Switch needs a minimum amount of charge to start up. Always ensure that you are using the original AC adapter or dock for optimal charging and care for your Switch. By following these tips, you’ll keep your device happy and ready for your next gaming adventure.