Why Does My Switch Controller Say Low Battery?
Seeing that dreaded low battery icon flash on your Nintendo Switch controller is a frustrating experience, especially when you’re in the middle of an intense gaming session. The reasons for this can vary, and understanding the underlying issues can help you get back to gaming quickly. The primary reason your Switch controller indicates low battery is that the internal rechargeable battery within the Joy-Con or Pro Controller has been depleted through use and needs to be recharged. It’s a natural part of using these devices, but several factors can contribute to a faster or seemingly unexpected battery drain. These include:
- Normal Battery Depletion: Like all rechargeable batteries, the ones in your Switch controllers have a finite lifespan and will gradually lose their charge over time with use.
- Software Application and Functions: Some games and controller functions demand more power than others, leading to faster battery drain. Games with heavy rumble features, for example, can drain batteries more quickly.
- Battery Degradation: Over time, lithium-ion batteries degrade, reducing their capacity to hold a charge and decreasing their overall lifespan. This is a natural process and is not necessarily a sign of a faulty controller.
- Charging Issues: The controller might not be charging properly due to a faulty charging connection, an issue with the AC adapter, or problems with the Switch console itself.
- Incorrect Usage: Failing to properly connect the controllers to the console or dock can sometimes prevent them from charging correctly.
- Wireless Interference: Although less common, significant wireless interference can sometimes increase the power consumption of the controller.
It’s important to diagnose the specific cause to ensure that you aren’t misattributing an issue to simple battery depletion, and to learn the correct steps to rectify the situation. Now, let’s delve into some frequently asked questions that will offer even more insight into this common issue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Switch Controller Battery Issues
How long do Nintendo Switch controller batteries typically last?
The Joy-Con controllers generally last around 20 hours on a full charge. The Pro Controller can last even longer, typically around 40 hours. However, these are estimates, and actual battery life can vary depending on the software, controller settings, and usage. Games that utilize more controller features like rumble will drain the battery faster.
How do I charge my Nintendo Switch controllers?
The Joy-Con controllers charge when they’re attached to the Nintendo Switch console, whether it’s docked or in handheld mode while connected to the AC adapter. The Pro Controller is charged via a USB-C cable plugged directly into the console or dock. When the console or controllers are charging, a charging icon is displayed on the screen.
How do I know if my Switch controllers are fully charged?
You can check the approximate battery level of your controllers by navigating to the Controllers menu from the HOME Menu on your Switch. The battery charge percentage will be displayed for the console and any connected controllers. The controller battery icon on the console’s home screen also gives a visual indication of charge level. When fully charged, the battery icon will typically show a full charge, or the percentage will be at 100%.
What should I do if my Switch controller is not charging?
First, reset the AC adapter by unplugging it from both the wall and the console or dock for at least 30 seconds. Ensure you are using the official Nintendo Switch AC adapter (model No. HAC-002) and inspect the cable for any damage. Then, try connecting the controllers to the console while it is connected to the AC adapter. If the controllers still don’t charge, reset them by pressing the SYNC button on the Joy-Con.
Will leaving my Switch docked overnight damage the battery?
No, leaving your Switch docked or plugged in overnight will not harm the battery. The console is designed to manage power flow, and once the battery is fully charged, it will stop accepting power and will not overcharge. This means you can safely leave your Switch in the dock when not in use without concern about harming the battery.
Is there a way to reset the battery indicator on my Switch?
While you can’t technically “reset” the battery health, you can try to recalibrate it by allowing the battery to fully discharge until the console turns off. Then, fully recharge it and see if that improves the reading. This process might help the system provide a more accurate battery level. To do this, power off the console by holding down the POWER Button for three seconds, then select “Power Options” > “Turn Off.” Leave the console alone for at least 30 minutes. Repeat this process a few times.
How do I know if my Nintendo Switch battery is bad?
A common sign of a failing battery is a significantly reduced battery life, even after a full charge. Another symptom is erratic charging behavior where the battery charges quickly but also depletes rapidly. If you are constantly needing to charge your Switch much more frequently than you used to, and the battery percentage drops suddenly, it might be a sign that the battery is nearing the end of its useful life.
How many charge cycles can a Nintendo Switch battery handle?
The Nintendo Switch battery, as a lithium-ion battery, has a lifespan that can handle approximately 800 charge cycles before its capacity decreases to around 80% of its original level. This is a natural degradation process that is expected for these types of batteries.
What damages a Nintendo Switch battery?
Several factors can damage a Switch battery:
- Using a non-official AC adapter or charging cable can lead to battery issues.
- Forcibly plugging in or unplugging the controllers at the wrong angle can also cause damage over time.
- Exposure to extreme temperature changes is also detrimental.
- Letting the battery stay fully depleted for extended periods can also contribute to faster battery degradation.
How do I reset my Joy-Cons?
To reset your Joy-Cons, detach them from the console. Locate the SYNC button on the top of the controller (near the SL and SR buttons) and press it briefly once. Then press any other button to turn the controller back on. This should reset the connection between the Joy-Con and the console and can often resolve connection and battery issues.
Why are my Switch controllers not working even when fully charged?
If your controllers are fully charged, yet still not working, ensure your console has the latest system update. Make sure the Joy-Con controllers are properly synced with the Switch console and that there’s no significant obstruction or wireless interference. Try decreasing the distance between the Joy-Con and the console. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, try resetting both the controllers and the console.
Is it okay to leave my Nintendo Switch controllers on the dock?
Yes, it’s perfectly safe to leave your Nintendo Switch controllers attached to the console and the console in the dock. Once the controllers are fully charged, the charging process will stop to prevent overcharging.
How do I check the battery health of my Nintendo Switch?
To check the battery level percentage, navigate to System Settings from the HOME Menu. Scroll down and select System, then choose Console Battery (%). Press the A Button to see the approximate battery life percentage on the home menu. However, the system doesn’t directly show the actual battery health or overall degradation over time.
Can I replace the battery in my Switch controller?
While it is technically possible to replace the battery in your Joy-Cons or Pro Controller, it is often a complex process, involving specific tools and components, and it may void your warranty. It’s usually recommended to have a qualified technician perform the replacement or to consider purchasing a replacement controller, especially if the controller is past its warranty period.
Should I turn off my Switch or leave it in Sleep Mode?
For short breaks, Sleep Mode is the recommended option, as it quickly suspends the current game, while using minimal power. However, for longer periods, turning off the Switch completely can preserve battery life and help manage battery health. This helps to ensure a prolonged lifespan for your console’s battery.