How to Charge Nintendo Switch Controllers: A Complete Guide

Do you own a Nintendo Switch and find yourself constantly struggling to keep your controllers charged? You’re not alone. Many users experience difficulty in charging their Switch controllers, which can hinder their overall gaming experience. In this article, we will provide practical tips and step-by-step guides to help you charge your controllers the right way and prolong their battery life.

How to Properly Charge Your Nintendo Switch Controllers

The first thing you need to understand is that Nintendo Switch controllers use lithium-ion batteries. This means that they require a consistent and proper charging method to avoid degrading the battery life. Here’s how to do it:

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Locate the USB Type-C port on your controller.

Step 2: Plug the USB Type-C cable into the controller’s port.

Step 3: Connect the other end of the cable to a power source. You can use a wall adapter or the USB port on your console.

Step 4: The controller will start to charge, and the LED lights will indicate its charging level.

Step 5: When the controller is fully charged, unplug it from the power source.

Visual Aids with Images or Videos

If you’re still unsure how to charge your Nintendo Switch controllers properly, don’t worry. You can easily find lots of visual aids on the internet, including images, videos, and infographics that demonstrate how to do it correctly. Make use of these resources to avoid any mistakes.

Dos and Don’ts of Charging Nintendo Switch Controllers

Now that you know how to charge your controllers, let’s talk about what you should and shouldn’t do while doing so.

Listicle format

Do use the official Nintendo Switch charger or a charger with similar specifications and requirements.
Do keep the charge level between 20% and 80% to prolong the battery life.
Don’t charge the controller for longer than necessary.
Don’t charge the controller in a humid or hot environment.
Don’t use third-party charging cables or chargers, as they might damage your controller’s battery and software.

Common mistakes users make

The most common mistakes that users make when charging their Nintendo Switch controllers are as follows:

Leaving the controller plugged in for longer than necessary, or overnight.
Leaving the controller charging in a hot environment.
Using third-party chargers and cables that are not recognised by the console.
Not checking the charging cable for any damage before plugging it in.

Best Practices for Prolonging the Battery Life of Your Nintendo Switch Controllers

If you want your controller’s battery to last longer, you’ll need to take some extra steps. Here are some best practices:

Tips and tricks for maintaining battery life

Reduce the controller’s brightness level to conserve power.
Turn off the controller vibration feature.
Avoid using the controller while charging it.
Use a storage case to protect your controller from any possible damage or abuse.

Turning Off Controllers When Not in Use

One of the easiest ways to conserve battery life is by turning off your controllers when you’re not using them. Even though the controllers will automatically shut down on their own if left untouched for a specific period, it’s still a good idea to turn them off manually after playing.

Full Charge Before Storage

Before putting your controllers away for storage, make sure that they are fully charged. Doing this will prevent the battery from draining while in storage, and you’ll have a fully charged battery when you’re ready to use them again.

Troubleshooting Guide for Common Charging Issues

Even if you do everything we’ve outlined so far, you may still occasionally encounter some charging issues. Here are a few common issues:

Common issues that may occur while charging

The controller is not charging or taking too long to charge.
The controller is getting too hot while charging.
The charging cable is not working correctly.
The LED lights on the controller are not working.

How to fix each issue

Double-check that everything is connected correctly and that the charger is functioning correctly.
Avoid charging the controller in hot environments and make sure your console and charger are placed in a well-ventilated area.
Try using a different cable to see if that fixes the issue.
If the LED lights are not working, it’s best to contact Nintendo’s customer support for advice.

Different Types of Charging Options for Nintendo Switch Controllers

Finally, let’s talk about the different charging options available for Nintendo Switch controllers.

Explanation of Different Charging Options

Official Nintendo Switch Charger: This is the most recommended way of charging your controllers, and it is the best way to avoid any issues or potential damage to your controllers’ battery or console.
Third-Party Charging Accessories: Although not recommended by Nintendo, some third-party charging accessories are compatible with Nintendo controllers, and they may provide an affordable and convenient charging solution.
Portable Power Banks: These are an excellent option if you are traveling and need to charge your controllers on the go. There are several portable power banks designed specifically for Nintendo Switch controllers.

Review of Popular Charging Accessories

If you are considering purchasing any third-party charging accessories or portable power banks, make sure that you research and read reviews thoroughly to avoid any potential issues. Some of the most popular are the Anker PowerCore 20100, the Nyko Charge Block Pro, and the YCCTEAM Wireless Charging Station.

Conclusion

In conclusion, charging your Nintendo Switch controllers correctly is easy as long as you follow the steps and guidelines outlined in this article. Remember to use the official Nintendo Switch charger or a charger with similar specifications, avoid overcharging, and follow the dos and don’ts when charging. Additionally, use the best practices to maintain and prolong the battery life of your controllers.

Final thoughts and advice

If you experience any issues or have any questions about charging and maintaining your Nintendo Switch controllers, don’t hesitate to contact Nintendo’s customer support for advice and guidance.