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 chosen Nintendo Switch controller, 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.
Attach to the Switch
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.
Use a Charging Grip
Nintendo also sells a separate charging grip for 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.
Use a Charging Dock
Another accessory available for charging Joy Cons is using the charging 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 the Switch, 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.
Use a USB Cord
Your Pro controller should come with a USB cord that you can use with it plugged into the Switch.
Use a Charging Dock
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 licensed charging dock from 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.
