How to Charge Nintendo Switch Controllers?

If you have a Nintendo Switch, you know how fun and easy it is to use the controllers, called Joy-Cons. They help you play all your games. But, just like any battery-powered gadget, you need to keep them charged to keep playing.

This guide will show you how to charge your Nintendo Switch controllers. This means you can always keep playing. No matter which version of the Nintendo Switch you have – the original, the OLED, or the Lite. We’ll go through each step of charging so you know exactly what to do. Let’s get started!

How to Charge Joy-Con Controllers with OLED Model 

Following these steps charge your Joy-Con controllers to ensure they are always ready for your gaming sessions.

Charging While Attached to the Console: 

• To charge, simply slide them onto the sides of the console.
• Ensure that the console is powered on or in Sleep Mode while the Joy-Cons are attached for charging.
• Connect the Nintendo Switch console to the AC adapter and plug it into a wall socket.

Charging with the Joy-Con Charging Grip:

• Attach the Joy-Con controllers to the Joy-Con Charging Grip.
• Connect the Joy-Con Charging Grip to the Nintendo Switch dock with a LAN port. You can use the USB cable included with the Charging Grip.
• Alternatively, you can connect the Charging Grip to the Nintendo Switch AC adapter (HAC-002).

How to Charge Joy-Con Controllers with Nintendo Switch

Charging your Joy-Con controllers with the original Nintendo Switch follows a similar process to that of the OLED model. Here’s a breakdown of the steps:

Charging While Attached to the Console:

• Slide the Joy-Con controllers onto the sides of the Nintendo Switch console.
• Make sure the console is on or in Sleep Mode for the Joy-Cons to charge.
• Connect the Nintendo Switch console to the AC adapter and plug it into a power outlet.

Charging with the Joy-Con Charging Grip:

• Attach the Joy-Con controllers to the Joy-Con Charging Grip.
• Connect the Charging Grip to the Nintendo Switch dock using the USB cable provided with the Grip.
• Alternatively, you can connect the Charging Grip directly to the Nintendo Switch AC adapter (HAC-002).

Charging Joy-Con Controllers with Nintendo Switch Lite

Charging Joy-Con controllers with the Nintendo Switch Lite requires a different approach. It is due to the Lite’s handheld design. Here’s how you can charge:

Using the Joy-Con Charging Grip:

• To charge, you’ll need to purchase the Joy-Con Charging Grip separately.
• Attach the Joy-Con controllers to the Charging Grip.
• Connect the Charging Grip to the Nintendo Switch AC adapter (HAC-002) using the provided USB cable.
• Plug the AC adapter into a power outlet to start the charging process.

Tips for Maximizing Battery Life

While knowing how to charge your Nintendo Switch controllers is crucial, it’s also essential to optimize their battery life for extended gaming sessions. Here are some tips to help you maximize the battery life of your Joy-Con controllers:

1. Adjust Screen Brightness: Lowering the screen brightness of your Nintendo Switch can significantly conserve battery power. Adjust the brightness to a comfortable level while still enjoying optimal visibility.
2. Enable Airplane Mode: When playing games that don’t need an internet connection, consider enabling Airplane Mode on your Nintendo Switch. This disables wireless communications, reducing battery consumption.
3. Use Sleep Mode Wisely: Use Sleep Mode when taking short breaks rather than leaving the console running idle. This helps conserve battery power by putting the console into a low-power state.
4. Limit Controller Vibration: Controller vibration can drain battery life more quickly. If you’re not reliant on vibration feedback in a particular game, consider disabling it to increase battery usage.
5. Close Unused Applications: Close any unused applications or games running in the background. Background processes can consume battery power, so closing them when not in use can help conserve energy.
6. Update System Software: Ensure that your Nintendo Switch’s system software is up to date. System updates often include optimizations and improvements that can enhance battery life.
7. Proper Storage and Handling: Store your Joy-Con controllers in a cool, dry place when not in use, and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures. Proper storage and handling can help maintain the longevity of the battery.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Charging Joy-Con Controllers

While charging your Joy-Con controllers may seem straightforward, there are some common mistakes that users often make, which can affect charging efficiency and battery life. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Using Unofficial Chargers: Using third-party or unofficial chargers may not provide the necessary voltage or current regulation required for safe and efficient charging. Always use the official Nintendo Switch AC adapter or approved accessories.
• Forgetting to Power On or Enter Sleep Mode: Joy-Con controllers can only charge while the Nintendo Switch console is on or in Sleep Mode. Forgetting to power on the console or activate Sleep Mode may result in ineffective charging.
• Overcharging: Oversharing the controllers for extended periods can affect the battery’s health.
• Ignoring Ventilation: Charging Joy-Con controllers in poorly ventilated areas can lead to overheating. Make sure there is adequate airflow to prevent overheating issues.
• Using Damaged Cables or Ports: Inspect the charging cables and ports regularly for any signs of damage or wear. Using damaged cables or ports can result in unreliable charging.
• Incorrect Attachment: When attaching the Joy-Con controllers to the console or Charging Grip for charging, ensure that they’re well connected. Improper attachment may lead to intermittent charging or no charging at all.
• Mixing Joy-Con Accessories: Using accessories or chargers intended for other gaming consoles with Joy-Con controllers can result in compatibility issues and potential damage to the controllers.

Troubleshooting Charging Issues

Charging controllers can be frustrating. Here are some troubleshooting steps to help you address charging issues:

• Check Connections: Ensure Joy-Con controllers are connected to the Nintendo Switch console/Charging Grip. Loose connections can prevent proper charging.
• Inspect Charging Cable and Port: Examine the charging cable for any signs of damage, such as fraying or bent pins. Additionally, check the charging port on both the controllers and the console for any debris.
• Try Different Outlets: Test the charger with different power outlets to rule out any issues with the electrical socket. Sometimes, faulty outlets can be the cause of charging problems.
• Restart Console: If the Joy-Con controllers are not charging while attached to the console, try restarting the Nintendo Switch. This simple step can sometimes resolve software-related issues affecting charging.
• Reset Joy-Con Controllers: Detach the Joy-Con controllers from the console and perform a reset by pressing the small circular button on the back of each controller. Reattach them afterward and attempt charging again.
• Charge Separately: If charging the controllers is unsuccessful, try charging them using individual charging accessories.
• Update System Software: Ensure that your Nintendo Switch console’s system software is up to date. Software updates often include fixes for charging-related issues.
• Contact Support: If you’ve tried the above steps and are still experiencing charging problems, it may be necessary to contact Nintendo customer support for further assistance or to inquire about warranty coverage.

Also Check: How to Stream Nintendo Switch on Discord?

FAQs

Conclusion

Charging your Nintendo Switch controllers is essential for uninterrupted gaming fun. Follow the correct procedures outlined in this guide to keep your Joy-Cons powered up and ready to go. With proper charging techniques, you can ensure long-lasting battery life and endless gaming. So, keep those controllers charged, and let the gaming adventures continue!