Connect New Controllers To Nintendo Switch: A Simple Guide

Hey guys! Are you looking to expand your gaming fun on the Nintendo Switch with some new controllers? Maybe you’ve got some friends coming over for a gaming night, or you just want to have a backup controller ready to go. Whatever the reason, connecting new controllers to your Nintendo Switch is super easy, and I'm here to walk you through it. We'll cover everything from Joy-Cons to Pro Controllers, ensuring you're all set for your next gaming session. So, let's jump right in and get those controllers connected!

Understanding Controller Compatibility

Before we dive into the how-to, let's quickly chat about controller compatibility. The Nintendo Switch supports a range of controllers, which is fantastic because you're not just stuck with the Joy-Cons that come in the box. You can use additional Joy-Cons, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, and even some third-party controllers that are officially licensed. Understanding what works with your Switch is the first step in ensuring a smooth setup.

The Joy-Cons are those nifty little controllers that come with your Switch. They can be used attached to the console, detached and used individually (perfect for two-player games!), or detached and used as a pair. Then there's the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, which is a more traditional-style gamepad that many gamers find more comfortable for longer play sessions. It's got a solid feel and great ergonomics, making it a popular choice for serious gamers. Third-party controllers can be a mixed bag, but there are some excellent officially licensed options out there that offer similar functionality to the Pro Controller, often at a more budget-friendly price.

It's essential to make sure that any third-party controller you're considering is officially licensed by Nintendo. This ensures that it will work correctly with your Switch and that it meets Nintendo's quality standards. Unlicensed controllers might have compatibility issues or lack certain features, so sticking with licensed options is always the safest bet. Knowing your options and what your Switch supports sets you up for a hassle-free controller connection experience. Now that we've covered the basics, let's get into the nitty-gritty of connecting those controllers!

Connecting Joy-Cons

Alright, let's start with the Joy-Cons, since they're the controllers you're most likely to use and connect frequently. Connecting Joy-Cons to your Nintendo Switch is generally a breeze, thanks to Nintendo's straightforward design. There are a couple of ways to do it, depending on whether you're attaching them directly to the console or using them wirelessly.

If you're attaching the Joy-Cons directly to the console, it's as simple as sliding them onto the rails on either side of the Switch. You'll hear a click when they're properly connected, and the Switch will automatically recognize them. This method is not only easy but also charges the Joy-Cons, so it's a great way to keep them powered up while you play in handheld mode. Just slide them down until they click, and you're good to go! The Switch will display a notification on the screen to confirm that the Joy-Cons are connected, so you'll know everything is working as it should.

For wireless play, you'll need to sync the Joy-Cons with your Switch. There are two main ways to do this wirelessly. The first is through the Controller menu in the System Settings. From the home screen, go to System Settings, then Controllers and Sensors, and finally select Change Grip/Order. On this screen, you'll see icons for each controller. Press the sync button on the Joy-Con (it's the small black button located between the SL and SR buttons) until the player indicator lights up. This tells the Switch that the controller is trying to connect. The second method is even simpler: just press the L and R buttons on the Joy-Cons when they're detached, and they should automatically sync with the console. The player indicator lights will illuminate, showing which player number the controller is assigned to. This wireless connection method is perfect for when you're playing on your TV or with multiple people.

Connecting Joy-Cons is super intuitive, which is one of the things that makes the Nintendo Switch so user-friendly. Whether you're sliding them onto the console or syncing them wirelessly, you'll be up and gaming in no time. Now, let's move on to the Pro Controller, which is another fantastic option for Switch gamers.

Connecting the Pro Controller

The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is a favorite among many gamers for its comfortable grip and traditional gamepad design. If you've got one of these, you're in for a treat – it's a fantastic controller for longer gaming sessions. Connecting the Pro Controller is just as straightforward as connecting Joy-Cons, but there are a couple of nuances to keep in mind.

There are two primary ways to connect your Pro Controller: via USB and wirelessly. Connecting via USB is the simplest method, especially the first time you connect the controller. Just plug one end of the USB-C cable into the Pro Controller and the other end into the Switch dock. The Switch will automatically recognize the controller, and you'll see a message on the screen confirming the connection. This method also charges the Pro Controller, which is super convenient. So, if your Pro Controller is running low on battery, just plug it in, and you can keep playing while it charges.

For wireless connection, you'll want to use the sync button on the Pro Controller. This is a small button located on the top of the controller, next to the USB-C port. To start, go to the home menu on your Nintendo Switch and navigate to System Settings. From there, select Controllers and Sensors, and then Change Grip/Order. On the Change Grip/Order screen, press and hold the sync button on the Pro Controller until the player indicator lights start flashing. This puts the controller into pairing mode, signaling to the Switch that it's ready to connect. The Switch should then detect the Pro Controller, and the player indicator lights on the controller will illuminate to show which player number it's assigned to. This wireless method gives you the freedom to move around and play from a comfortable distance, making it ideal for playing on your TV.

The Pro Controller is a fantastic addition to any Switch setup, and the easy connection process means you can switch between Joy-Cons and the Pro Controller without any hassle. Whether you prefer the wired or wireless connection, you'll be up and gaming in no time. Now that we've covered both Joy-Cons and the Pro Controller, let's talk about what to do if you run into any issues.

Troubleshooting Controller Connection Issues

Sometimes, even with the best tech, things don't go quite as planned. If you're having trouble connecting your controllers to your Nintendo Switch, don't worry! There are a few common issues and simple fixes you can try. Let's walk through some troubleshooting steps to get you back in the game.

First, let's tackle the most common issue: controller not syncing. If your Joy-Cons or Pro Controller aren't connecting wirelessly, the first thing to check is the battery level. A low battery can often cause connection problems. Make sure your controllers are charged, either by attaching the Joy-Cons to the console or plugging in the Pro Controller with a USB-C cable. Give them some time to charge, and then try syncing again. Another simple fix is to restart your Nintendo Switch. Sometimes, a quick reboot can clear up any software glitches that might be interfering with the connection. Just hold down the power button for a few seconds, select Power Options, and then Restart.

If restarting doesn't do the trick, try re-syncing the controllers. Go to System Settings, then Controllers and Sensors, and select Disconnect Controllers. This will disconnect all currently paired controllers. Then, follow the steps we discussed earlier for connecting Joy-Cons or the Pro Controller. Make sure you're pressing the sync button on the controllers and that the player indicator lights are flashing. Sometimes, interference from other wireless devices can cause connection issues. Try moving your Switch away from other electronics, such as routers or Bluetooth speakers, to minimize potential interference.

Another thing to consider is updating your controller firmware. Nintendo regularly releases updates to improve controller performance and fix bugs. To check for updates, go to System Settings, then Controllers and Sensors, and select Update Controllers. If there's an update available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it. Keeping your controllers updated can resolve many connection problems and ensure they're working their best. If you've tried all these steps and you're still having issues, it might be a hardware problem. In this case, contacting Nintendo support is your best bet. They can provide further assistance and, if necessary, arrange for repairs or replacements.

Wrapping Up

So there you have it, guys! Connecting new controllers to your Nintendo Switch is usually a breeze, whether you're using Joy-Cons or the Pro Controller. We've covered everything from understanding controller compatibility to the step-by-step connection processes and even some troubleshooting tips for when things don't go quite right. With this guide, you should be all set to expand your gaming setup and enjoy some fantastic multiplayer sessions with friends and family.

The Nintendo Switch is designed to be user-friendly, and connecting controllers is no exception. Whether you're sliding Joy-Cons onto the console or syncing a Pro Controller wirelessly, the process is straightforward and intuitive. And if you ever run into any hiccups, remember the troubleshooting tips we discussed – a quick restart, re-syncing, or checking for firmware updates can often do the trick.

Now that you know how to connect new controllers, you're ready to dive into some awesome multiplayer games. Grab some extra controllers, invite your friends over, and get ready for some serious gaming fun. The Nintendo Switch has a fantastic library of multiplayer titles, from party games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate to cooperative adventures like Luigi's Mansion 3 and Overcooked 2. There's something for everyone, and having multiple controllers means you can experience these games with even more people.

Happy gaming, and I hope this guide has been helpful! If you have any more questions or run into any other issues, don't hesitate to reach out. Now go forth and conquer those virtual worlds with your newly connected controllers!