Picture this—you’re in the middle of an intense boss fight in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Your heart is pounding, your palms are sweaty, and just as you’re about to deliver the final blow—your controller dies. Frustrating, isn’t it?
We’ve all been there. That sudden panic when your Joy-Con stops responding or your Pro Controller refuses to cooperate. But don’t worry—you’re about to learn exactly how to keep your Nintendo Switch controllers fully charged and ready for action so you never miss a moment of gameplay again.
But first, let’s step back and appreciate the Nintendo legacy for a moment.
What is Nintendo?
Did you know Nintendo started as a playing card company in 1889? Over the years, it has transformed into a global gaming powerhouse, delivering innovative consoles and timeless classics like Super Mario, Pokémon, and Animal Crossing.
With its latest console, the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo has redefined gaming yet again, offering a hybrid experience—play it on your TV or take it on the go. But for all its versatility, keeping your controllers charged is crucial for seamless gameplay.
So, how do you properly charge your Nintendo Switch controllers and avoid the dreaded low-battery warning? Let’s dive in.
Charging Nintendo Switch Controllers – Step-by-Step Guide
1. Charging Joy-Con Controllers
The Joy-Cons are versatile and lightweight, but do you know all the ways to charge them?
A. Attach Them to the Console
- Simply slide the Joy-Cons onto the sides of the Nintendo Switch console.
- Ensure the console is in docked mode and connected to a power source via the AC adapter.
- Once attached, the Joy-Cons will charge automatically as the console charges.
But what if you’re gaming for hours and can’t dock the console?
B. Use a Joy-Con Charging Grip (Optional Accessory)
- Insert the Joy-Cons into the Joy-Con Charging Grip.
- Plug the grip into a USB-C cable and connect it to either the dock or a wall adapter.
C. Try a Charging Dock (Third-Party or Official)
- Place the Joy-Cons into a dedicated charging dock.
- Connect the dock to a USB power source.
Tip: Charging docks often let you charge multiple controllers simultaneously, which is perfect for multiplayer nights!
2. Charging the Pro Controller
The Pro Controller is ideal for longer, more immersive gaming sessions, but what happens if it runs out of juice mid-battle?
A. Use a USB-C Cable
- Connect the USB-C cable to the Pro Controller and the other end to:
- A USB port on the dock.
- A wall adapter or power bank.
- Look for the orange light indicator near the USB port—it tells you the controller is charging.
Did You Know? The Pro Controller offers up to 40 hours of gameplay on a single charge—perfect for marathon sessions!
How Long Does It Take to Charge?
- Joy-Cons: Around 3.5 hours for a full charge, providing up to 20 hours of playtime.
- Pro Controller: About 6 hours for a full charge, giving you up to 40 hours of uninterrupted gameplay.
Pro Tips for Efficient Charging
- Keep an Eye on Battery Levels:
Always check the Controllers menu on the home screen for battery updates. - Avoid Overcharging:
Unplug controllers once fully charged to extend battery life. - Stick to Official Accessories:
Third-party chargers can sometimes damage your controllers—always use Nintendo-approved accessories. - Clean the Ports:
Dust and debris in charging ports can cause connection issues—make sure they’re clean. - Carry a Backup Charger:
Invest in a portable USB-C power bank for on-the-go gaming.
Final Thought – Are You Ready for Unstoppable Gaming?
Imagine never having to pause your adventure again because of a dead battery. Imagine never losing a match because your controller ran out of power at the worst possible moment.
With this guide, you’re now equipped to keep your Nintendo Switch controllers charged and ready for any challenge.
So, the next time you’re deep in Hyrule or racing through Mushroom Kingdom, your only focus will be winning, not worrying about batteries.
Game on!
