Connect Bluetooth Controller To Nintendo Switch

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Connect Bluetooth Controller to Nintendo Switch

Hey everyone! Want to level up your Nintendo Switch gaming experience? Connecting a Bluetooth controller is a fantastic way to do it. Whether you've got a trusty PlayStation DualShock, an Xbox Wireless Controller, or another Bluetooth gamepad lying around, getting it paired with your Switch opens up a world of comfortable and customized gameplay. In this guide, I'll walk you through the simple steps to connect your favorite Bluetooth controller to your Nintendo Switch, so you can ditch those Joy-Cons (at least sometimes!) and dive into your games with a familiar feel.

Why Use a Bluetooth Controller with Your Switch?

Before we jump into the how-to, let's quickly chat about why you might want to use a Bluetooth controller with your Nintendo Switch in the first place. The Joy-Cons are cool and innovative, but they aren't always the most ergonomic for longer gaming sessions. For those of us with larger hands, or those who simply prefer a more traditional controller layout, a Bluetooth gamepad can be a game-changer. Imagine playing The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Super Smash Bros. Ultimate with the comfortable grip of an Xbox controller or the familiar button layout of a PlayStation DualShock. It's all about personal preference, and having options is always a win!

Plus, using a Bluetooth controller can save wear and tear on your Joy-Cons. Let's face it, those little guys can be a bit delicate, and replacing them can be costly. By using a Bluetooth controller for the bulk of your gaming, you can extend the lifespan of your Joy-Cons and keep them fresh for when you need them, like for local multiplayer or when you're on the go. So, without further ado, let's get into the nitty-gritty of connecting your Bluetooth controller to your Nintendo Switch.

Enabling Bluetooth Controller Support on Your Nintendo Switch

Alright, before you can start pairing your favorite Bluetooth controller, you need to make sure that your Nintendo Switch is set up to allow Bluetooth connections for controllers. By default, the Switch only supports Bluetooth for audio devices, but thankfully, enabling controller support is a breeze. Here's how you do it:

  1. Head to System Settings: On your Nintendo Switch home screen, navigate to the "System Settings" icon. It looks like a little gear.
  2. Go to Controllers and Sensors: Scroll down the menu on the left-hand side and select "Controllers and Sensors."
  3. Enable Pro Controller Wired Communication: This might sound a bit counterintuitive since we're connecting a Bluetooth controller, but trust me on this one. Make sure that the "Pro Controller Wired Communication" option is turned OFF. This setting, when enabled, can interfere with Bluetooth connectivity. So, toggle it off to ensure a smooth pairing process.

Why do we turn off "Pro Controller Wired Communication"? Good question! This setting is primarily for using a Pro Controller connected via USB. When it's enabled, it can sometimes block other Bluetooth devices from connecting properly. By turning it off, you're essentially opening the door for your Bluetooth controller to connect.

With this setting adjusted, your Nintendo Switch is now primed and ready to connect to your Bluetooth controller. Let's move on to the pairing process!

Pairing Your Bluetooth Controller with the Nintendo Switch

Okay, with the Bluetooth settings on your Switch all squared away, it's time for the main event: pairing your Bluetooth controller. The exact steps might vary slightly depending on the type of controller you're using, but the general process is pretty straightforward. Here's a breakdown of how to pair some of the most popular Bluetooth controllers:

Pairing a PlayStation DualShock 4 Controller

The PlayStation DualShock 4 is a popular choice for many gamers, and it works surprisingly well with the Nintendo Switch. Here's how to pair it:

  1. Put Your DualShock 4 into Pairing Mode: Press and hold the PlayStation button and the Share button simultaneously until the light bar on the back of the controller starts flashing rapidly. This indicates that the controller is in pairing mode and ready to connect to a new device.
  2. On Your Nintendo Switch, Go to Controllers: From the home screen, select "Controllers."
  3. Select "Change Grip/Order": This option will put your Switch into pairing mode, searching for nearby Bluetooth devices.
  4. Wait for Your DualShock 4 to Appear: Your DualShock 4 should appear on the screen as a selectable device. Select it.
  5. Pair and Play: The Switch will connect to your DualShock 4, and the light bar on the controller will turn a solid color (usually blue). You're now ready to game!

Pairing an Xbox Wireless Controller

The Xbox Wireless Controller is another excellent option for your Nintendo Switch, offering a comfortable and familiar feel. Here's how to get it connected:

  1. Put Your Xbox Wireless Controller into Pairing Mode: Press and hold the Xbox button to turn on the controller. Then, press and hold the small pairing button on the top of the controller (near the USB port) until the Xbox button starts flashing rapidly. This indicates that the controller is in pairing mode.
  2. On Your Nintendo Switch, Go to Controllers: From the home screen, select "Controllers."
  3. Select "Change Grip/Order": This option will put your Switch into pairing mode, searching for nearby Bluetooth devices.
  4. Wait for Your Xbox Wireless Controller to Appear: Your Xbox Wireless Controller should appear on the screen as a selectable device. Select it.
  5. Pair and Play: The Switch will connect to your Xbox Wireless Controller, and the Xbox button on the controller will turn solid. You're now ready to jump into your favorite games!

Pairing Other Bluetooth Controllers

The process for pairing other Bluetooth controllers is generally similar. The key is to put your controller into pairing mode, which usually involves pressing and holding a specific button or combination of buttons. Consult your controller's manual for specific instructions. Once the controller is in pairing mode, follow the same steps on your Nintendo Switch:

  1. Go to "Controllers" on the home screen.
  2. Select "Change Grip/Order."
  3. Wait for your controller to appear in the list of available devices.
  4. Select your controller and pair it.

Important Note: Some third-party Bluetooth controllers may require a specific pairing sequence or may not be fully compatible with the Nintendo Switch. Always check the controller's compatibility before purchasing.

Troubleshooting Common Bluetooth Connection Issues

Sometimes, things don't go quite as planned, and you might run into some hiccups when trying to connect your Bluetooth controller to your Nintendo Switch. Don't worry; it happens to the best of us! Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:

  • Controller Not Appearing in the List of Devices:
    • Make sure your controller is actually in pairing mode. The light should be flashing rapidly.
    • Ensure that your Switch is close enough to the controller. Bluetooth has a limited range.
    • Try turning off other Bluetooth devices in the area that might be interfering with the connection.
    • Restart your Nintendo Switch and try again.
  • Controller Disconnects Frequently:
    • Check the battery level of your controller. A low battery can cause disconnection issues.
    • Make sure there are no obstructions between your controller and your Switch.
    • Try updating your Switch's system software to the latest version.
    • If you're using a third-party controller, check for firmware updates for the controller itself.
  • Controller Buttons Not Responding Correctly:
    • This is more common with third-party controllers. Check the controller's settings on the Switch to see if you can remap the buttons.
    • Consult the controller's manual for specific troubleshooting steps.

If you've tried all of these troubleshooting steps and you're still having problems, it might be worth contacting the controller manufacturer's support team or searching online forums for solutions specific to your controller model.

Enjoy Your Enhanced Gaming Experience!

Connecting a Bluetooth controller to your Nintendo Switch is a simple way to personalize your gaming experience and make those long gaming sessions even more comfortable. With a few easy steps, you can ditch the Joy-Cons (when you want to!) and enjoy your favorite Switch games with a controller that feels just right in your hands. So go ahead, pair up your favorite Bluetooth gamepad and get ready to level up your gameplay! Happy gaming, guys!