Are you ready to expand your gaming experience on the Nintendo Switch? Whether you’re gearing up for a family game night, preparing for a cozy session with friends, or simply want to enjoy multiplayer gaming with someone special, connecting another controller to your Nintendo Switch is the gateway to thrilling cooperative or competitive gameplay. This guide will walk you through the steps to connect another controller, ensuring that you can dive into the action without any tech hiccups.
Understanding Your Controller Options
Before we delve into the connection process, it’s essential to understand the types of controllers compatible with the Nintendo Switch. The flexibility in controller options enhances your gaming experience and makes multiplayer more enjoyable.
1. Official Nintendo Controllers
Several official Nintendo controllers can seamlessly connect to your Nintendo Switch:
- Joy-Con Controllers: These are the standard controllers that come with your Switch. You can use them individually or combine them on the Joy-Con grip to create a more traditional gamepad experience.
- Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: This controller offers a more ergonomic design and traditional layout, perfect for extended gaming sessions.
2. Third-Party Controllers
Numerous third-party manufacturers produce controllers that are compatible with the Switch. While they can vary in quality and features, popular options include:
- PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller: Known for its additional buttons and customizable options.
- Hori Split Pad Pro: A unique controller designed for handheld mode, providing better ergonomics for portable gaming.
Preparing Your Switch for New Connections
Before connecting another controller, it’s crucial to ensure that your Nintendo Switch is ready to pair with a new device. This involves a few straightforward steps.
1. Update Your Switch
First, make sure your Nintendo Switch is running the latest system software. Follow these steps:
- From the Home menu, select “System Settings.”
- Scroll down and select “System.”
- Choose “System Update” and let the Switch check for updates. Follow any prompts to install updates if available.
Keeping your Switch updated ensures compatibility with all controllers, enhancing your gaming experience.
2. Check Controller Compatibility
If you’re using a third-party controller, check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure it supports the Nintendo Switch before attempting to connect.
Connecting a Second Joy-Con Controller
Connecting a second Joy-Con is one of the simplest ways to facilitate multiplayer gaming on your Nintendo Switch. Here’s how to do it:
1. Disconnect Existing Pairing
If the Joy-Con you want to connect was previously paired with another device or even the Switch itself, it is best to disconnect it first:
- From the Home menu, navigate to “System Settings.”
- Scroll down and select “Controllers and Sensors.”
- Choose “Disconnect Controllers” and follow the prompts.
Doing this ensures a smooth pairing process for your new controller.
2. Pair the Second Joy-Con
Now, let’s pair the second Joy-Con:
- Slide the Joy-Con you want to pair onto the Nintendo Switch console.
- Once docked, remove the Joy-Con from the console.
- Your Switch will detect the controller, and you will see a pairing notification on the screen. Follow any on-screen instructions if necessary.
After following these steps, the second Joy-Con should be successfully paired.
Connecting a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller provides a more conventional gaming experience. Here’s how to connect it:
1. Charging the Pro Controller
Before proceeding with the connection, ensure that your Pro Controller is adequately charged. Connect it to the Switch dock or a USB power source using the included cable until it’s fully charged.
2. Connecting the Pro Controller
You can connect the Pro Controller in two ways: via USB or Bluetooth. Below are the instructions for both methods.
USB Connection
- Connect the Pro Controller to the Nintendo Switch dock using a USB-C cable.
- The Switch should automatically recognize the Pro Controller, and a notification will confirm that it is connected.
Bluetooth Connection
To connect the Pro Controller wirelessly, follow these steps:
- From the Home menu, go to “System Settings.”
- Select “Controllers and Sensors.”
- Choose “Pair New Controllers” followed by “Pair Pro Controller”.
- Press and hold the small Sync button on top of the Pro Controller until the lights on the bottom begin to flash.
- Your Switch will detect the controller. Once connected, the lights will stop flashing and remain lit.
Connecting Third-Party Controllers
If you’ve chosen a third-party option, the connection process can be slightly different depending on the manufacturer. However, most controllers will follow a similar connection procedure to the Pro Controller.
1. Follow Manufacturer Instructions
Before beginning the connection, consult the user manual that came with the controller. It will often provide specific instructions tailored to that particular device.
2. General Pairing Steps
For many popular third-party controllers, you can follow these general steps to connect:
- Start by ensuring the controller is fully charged.
- From the Home menu, navigate to “System Settings.”
- Select “Controllers and Sensors” and then “Add New Controllers.”
- Put the controller into pairing mode (usually done by holding the sync button until the LED lights start flashing).
- Look for the controller in the list of detected devices on your Switch and select it to pair.
Managing Connected Controllers
Once you’ve connected additional controllers, managing them is essential, especially if you tend to switch between devices or have many controllers paired.
1. Checking Connected Controllers
To view all the connected controllers:
- From the Home menu, go to “System Settings.”
- Scroll down and select “Controllers and Sensors.”
- Choose “Bluetooth Devices.” You will see a list of connected controllers.
2. Disconnecting Controllers
If you need to disconnect a controller, you can do so easily:
- In the same “Bluetooth Devices” menu, select the controller you want to disconnect.
- Choose “Disconnect” to unpair it from the Switch.
Knowing how to manage connected controllers can streamline your gaming sessions.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
Encountering issues while connecting a controller can be frustrating. Here are some common problems and solutions.
1. Controller Won’t Connect
If a controller doesn’t seem to connect, try these steps:
- Ensure the controller is charged.
- Restart your Nintendo Switch.
- Put the controller back into pairing mode and attempt the connection again.
2. Controller Disconnects During Play
If your controller disconnects during gameplay, consider the following:
- Check the battery level of the controller.
- Ensure no physical obstructions are blocking the signal between the Switch and the controller.
The Joy of Multiplayer Gaming
Connecting another controller to your Nintendo Switch opens extensive opportunities for multiplayer gaming. Whether you’re battling in “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate,” racing in “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe,” or exploring the vast world of “Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild,” the possibilities are endless.
By following this guide, you should now find yourself adept at connecting various controllers. Enjoy the thrill of multiplayer gaming, and take full advantage of everything your Nintendo Switch has to offer!
With more players in the game, the fun multiplies. Gather your friends, set up the controllers, and let the gaming adventures begin!
What types of controllers can I connect to my Nintendo Switch?
You can connect various types of controllers to your Nintendo Switch, including the official Joy-Con controllers, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, and third-party controllers that are compatible with the system. Joy-Con controllers can be used individually or attached to the Nintendo Switch console for handheld gaming. The Pro Controller offers a more traditional gamepad experience for players who prefer that style.
Additionally, there are third-party options available that emulate the functionality of the original controllers. Before purchasing a third-party controller, it’s recommended to check its compatibility with the Nintendo Switch to ensure a smooth gaming experience. Most reputable brands will advertise compatibility, but reading reviews can provide insight into their performance.
How do I connect a second Joy-Con controller?
To connect a second Joy-Con controller to your Nintendo Switch, first ensure that your console is powered on and on the home screen. Then, detach the Joy-Con you wish to pair from the console, and press the small sync button located on the side of the Joy-Con until the lights begin flashing. This indicates that the controller is in pairing mode.
Once the Joy-Con is in pairing mode, simply select the “Controllers” option from the home menu. From there, choose “Change Grip/Order.” Your console will recognize the new controller, and it should pair automatically. Once paired, the additional controller will be ready for use in multiplayer games.
Can I connect more than two controllers at once?
Yes, you can connect up to eight controllers simultaneously to a Nintendo Switch. This feature allows for a larger multiplayer gaming experience, so whether you’re playing party games or cooperative adventures, having multiple controllers connected can enhance the fun. This total includes Joy-Con, Pro Controllers, and compatible third-party controllers.
To connect additional controllers, simply repeat the pairing process for each one, allowing them to sync with the console. Keep in mind that not all games support multiple players, so it’s essential to check the game’s requirements beforehand. Once connected, you can enjoy playing with friends simultaneously.
What should I do if my controller is not connecting?
If your controller is not connecting to the Nintendo Switch, start by ensuring that the controller is charged. Low battery levels can prevent it from syncing properly. Charge the controller using the provided cable or dock, then attempt to reconnect it. For Joy-Cons, ensure they are properly slid onto the console to initiate connection.
If the controller still does not connect, try resetting the console by holding down the power button for a few seconds and then selecting “Power Options” followed by “Restart.” After restarting, try the pairing process again. If problems persist, you may also want to check for software updates for your console, as these updates can resolve connection issues.
Can I use my Nintendo Switch controllers on other devices?
Yes, some Nintendo Switch controllers can be connected to other devices such as PCs or mobile devices, depending on the controller and its compatibility. For example, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller can be paired with Windows PCs using Bluetooth. This is particularly useful for gamers who want to utilize their preferred controller for PC gaming.
To pair the controller with another device, follow the standard Bluetooth pairing process for that device. For instance, on a PC, navigate to Bluetooth settings and select “Add Bluetooth or other device.” Make sure the controller is in pairing mode before searching for it on the device. However, be aware that not all features may be supported when using the Switch controllers on non-Switch devices.
Is there a limit to how many Joy-Cons I can connect to the Switch?
While you can connect multiple Joy-Con controllers to the Nintendo Switch—up to a total of eight controllers—there is a limit to how many Joy-Cons can be used as separate controllers at once due to the way they are designed. Each Joy-Con can act as an individual controller, which enhances the multiplayer experience, but the maximum number of players is determined by the game’s specific limitations.
Most multiplayer games on the Switch will explicitly state the maximum number of players allowed, so it’s essential to refer to the game’s instructions for clarity. While technically you can connect up to eight controllers, the actual gameplay experience may vary by title, with some only allowing a certain number of simultaneous players.