How to Charge Nintendo Switch Controllers

Lengthen your gameplay with these tips

When it comes to the Nintendo Switch, there are a lot of different controller options to choose from. You can use the Joy Cons, which attach to the sides of the Switch console and are what comes with it in the box.

There are also Pro controllers, which are shaped more like traditional controllers. These can allow for smoother gameplay. All of these controllers, though, have different methods for you to charge them.

If you want to have long gaming sessions but are unsure about the best way to charge your chosenNintendo Switchcontroller, below are the steps for each different type of controller available and how to keep them charged.

Charging Nintendo Switch Joy Cons

The Joy Cons which comes with the Nintendo Switch can be charged in multiple different ways. Depending where you are and how you’re playing your Switch, one of these methods may work better for you. Here are your options for charging the Joy Cons.

The easiest way to recharge your Joy Con controllers is to attach them to the sides of your Switch. This option is best for when you’re not currently playing, or you’re playing in handheld mode.

Nintendo also sells a separatecharging gripfor Joy Con controllers. This option is perfect for when you want to play on your television but your Switch controllers need to be charged. This grip is different from the one that comes with the Switch, as that one can’t charge your Joy Cons.

Another accessory available for charging Joy Cons is using thecharging dock, sold separately by Nintendo. The charging docks are great if you have more than two Switch controllers to charge at once, as it can charge up to four.

Charging Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers

If you have purchased one of the Pro controllers made for theSwitch, you’ll find there are also multiple ways to keep them charged. It’s also a better option if you use TV mode a lot, as these controllers have a much longer battery life.

Since there are many third-party controllers out there, there may be many different methods of charging your Switch controllers depending on what controller you have. But for the Nintendo licensed Pro controllers, you can follow the instructions below.

Your Pro controller should come with aUSB cordthat you can use with it plugged into the Switch.

There are some third-party charging docks out there made specifically for charging the Pro Switch controller. You can find a lot of different versions with multiple features, but this officially licensedcharging dockfrom PowerA charges both a Pro controller as well as Joy Con controllers.

Controller Battery Life

With all the options the Switch has for controllers, you might wonder if it’s best to just stick with the included Joy Cons or buy a Pro controller. It all depends on how you best like to play your Switch console.

The Pro controllers have the best battery life, lasting for at least 40 hours of use. Joy Con battery life is about half that. If you’re an avid Switch player, it’s probably worth investing in a Pro controller for this reason, among others.

It also takes around 6 hours to fully charge the Pro controller, while the Joy Cons take about 3.5. If you play your Switch sparsely or are more into playing in handheld mode, just sticking with the original Joy Cons is your best bet.

Either way, there are so many options for charging Switch controllers that you likely won’t have to worry much about your gaming getting interrupted by a dead controller.

Since she was a child, Kayla has had a fascination with technology, video games, and filmmaking. Growing up she wrote on multiple personal blogs about these topics, enjoying the process of breaking down technical concepts. Most recently her focus has shifted to writing, and Kayla now reviews and writes technology, video editing, and gaming related articles.Read Kayla’s Full Bio

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How to Charge Nintendo Switch Controllers#

Charging Nintendo Switch Joy Cons#

Charging Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers#

Controller Battery Life#