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How to charge your Nintendo Switch controllers and console is necessary if you want to play for long periods of time without having to worry about the battery life of the controllers. It is essential that you have a solid understanding of how to charge your controllers, regardless of whether you are a novice or an experienced user of the Switch. Different controllers for the Nintendo Switch, such as the Joy-Cons and the Pro Controller, each have their own specific charging requirements.
If you are aware of these options and how to charge them, you will be able to make more educated decisions regarding your gaming requirements. This article will walk you through the fundamentals of charging your Nintendo Switch controllers, including the factors that influence the battery life of the controllers and the tips for extending their lifespan, so that you can concentrate on the gaming experience rather than worrying about the controllers’ longevity. Here are the simple steps how to charge your Nintendo Switch controllers and console.
How to charge your Nintendo Switch controllers and console
Charging the Nintendo Switch Console
- Connect the AC adapter to the Nintendo Switch dock.
- Plug the AC adapter into a power outlet.
- Slide the Nintendo Switch console into the dock. The console will automatically begin charging.
Charging the Joy-Con Controllers
Attached to the console
- With the console powered on or in Sleep Mode, attach the Joy-Con controllers to the console until they click into place.
- The Joy-Con controllers will automatically start charging when connected to the console.
Using the Joy-Con Charging Grip
- Slide the Joy-Con controllers into the Joy-Con Charging Grip.
- Connect the Charging Grip to the AC adapter using the included USB cable.
- Plug the AC adapter into a power outlet.
- The Joy-Con controllers will start charging automatically.
Using a separate USB cable
- Connect the separate USB cable to the USB-C port on the bottom of each Joy-Con controller.
- Plug the other end of the USB cable into a USB port on a computer, power bank, or other USB power source.
- The Joy-Con controllers will start charging automatically.
Pro Controller
- Connect the included USB cable to the USB-C port on the Pro Controller.
- Plug the other end of the USB cable into a USB port on a computer, power bank, or other USB power source.
- The Pro Controller will start charging automatically.
Types of Nintendo Switch Controllers and Their Charging Methods
| Controller Type | Charging Method |
|---|---|
| Joy-Con Controllers | Attached to the Nintendo Switch console when docked, or via Joy-Con Charging Grip, or using a charging station |
| Nintendo Switch Pro Controller | USB-C cable connected to the console or a compatible USB charger |
| Poké Ball Plus | USB-C cable connected to the console or a compatible USB charger |
| Joy-Con Charging Grip | USB-C cable connected to the console or a compatible USB charger |
| Joy-Con Charging Station | Plugged into a power source via USB cable |
| PowerA Wireless Controller | USB-C cable connected to the console or a compatible USB charger |
Comparison of Charging Methods: Dock vs. Cable Charging
| Aspect | Dock Charging | Cable Charging |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | Requires placing device on the dock | Requires plugging cable into device |
| Mobility | Less mobile as the device needs to stay on dock | More mobile as device can be used while charging |
| Space Efficiency | Takes up additional space on desk or table | Requires less space as cable can be tucked away |
| Compatibility | Specific docks may only work with certain devices | Compatible with a wide range of devices |
| Wear and Tear | Reduced wear on charging port | Moderate wear on charging port |
| Cost | May be more expensive than cables | Typically less expensive than docks |
Conclusion
One of the most common ways to charge your Joy-Con controllers is to simply slide them onto your Switch handheld controller. However, in order for the Joy-Cons to charge, there are a few prerequisites that must be satisfied. Due to the fact that they are powered directly by the Switch, you are able to use your Joy-Cons in portable mode while they are attached to the Switch, even if they have no remaining battery power.
However, in order for them to charge, the Switch must be connected to an appliance that uses an AC adapter. You have the option of docking the Switch with power connected to the dock, or you can connect an undocked Switch to a USB power source (preferably the official charger).
Questions and Answers
As long as the main tablet-like component of the console is powered up, it will begin charging the controllers as soon as you connect them, and the process will not take an excessive amount of time. In the event that both the controllers and the console require electrical power, you will be required to connect the entire system to your power supply.
However, it will only take about three and a half hours for your Switch to be fully charged back up to its original capacity. Additionally, you are able to continue playing even if the console is connected to a power source.
If you are unable to charge the Joy-Con controllers, try the following: It is imperative that the console is either powered on or in the Sleep Mode. It is necessary for the Nintendo Switch console to be connected to the AC adapter and either powered on or in Sleep Mode in order for the Joy-Con to be able to begin charging while it is attached to the console.