Here’s how to charge your Nintendo Switch controllers

THE NINTENDO Switch has multiple different controllers, some of which come with the console and others have to be purchased separately. 

The Switch comes with two Joy-Con controllers out of the box, while Pro Controllers aren’t included and have to be bought. 

Switch controllers typically last a long time, with a battery life anywhere from 20 hours all the way up to 40 hours. 

Here’s everything you need to know about charging your Nintendo Switch controllers.

How do I charge the Nintendo Switch controllers? 

If you want to charge your Joy-Con controllers, you simply have to connect them to the side of your Switch, then place the system in the dock.

Some third party accessories exist that allow you to charge your Joy-Con separately from the Switch, which can help when you need to charge more than two Joy-Con.

Pro Controllers require you to connect them to a power source, such as the Switch dock, via a USB cable to charge.

They can also be charged with any other USB power source, such as a phone charger, a PC USB port, or a portable power bank.

How do I know my Switch controllers are charging? 

If your Nintendo Switch Joy-Con are connected to the main Switch body and the system is docked, it will usually be charging. 

The console will typically charge itself first, then the Joy-Con, so if your console isn’t at full charge when you connect your Joy-Con it could take longer.

Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers have an indicator light on the top of the controller, next to the USB port, which lights up if the controller is charging. 

You can check on the charging status of any connected controller by opening the Controllers section from the main menu on the Switch.

Is there a way to charge Switch controllers without a dock? 

Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers can be charged from any USB power source, including phone chargers, portable power banks, and computer USB ports.

Joy-Con can’t typically be charged without the Dock, although in some circumstances they will charge from the main Switch body without being docked. 

Third party accessories, often called Joy-Con docks, can help you charge Joy-Con without the need for a dock or even a console. 

In most circumstances, however, a dock is necessary to charge Joy-Con, as it is the easiest and quickest way to charge them. 

How long do Switch controllers take to charge?

Nintendo says that Nintendo Switch controllers take approximately three hours to charge, although it can take less or more time depending on the battery level of the controller.

Joy-Con can also take longer to charge if the Switch console is low on battery, as the console is typically charged before the Joy-Con are. 

Some power sources aren’t strong enough to charge Pro Controllers quickly, which may also lead to longer charging times.

After a full three hour charge, Joy-Con will last approximately 40 hours before needing to be charged again, while Pro Controllers will last approximately 20 hours.

Written by Oliver Brandt on behalf of GLHF.