How to pair controllers with the Nintendo Switch 2
Nintendo Switch 2 supports seamless pairing with official Pro Controllers, Joy-Cons from the original Switch, and many third-party options via Bluetooth or wired methods.
Initial Setup Steps
Power on your Switch 2 and navigate to the HOME Menu, then select Controllers > Change Grip/Order to enter pairing mode. This screen detects nearby devices automatically. Ensure controllers are charged and within 10 feet for best Bluetooth range.
Pairing Pro Controllers
For new Switch 2 Pro Controllers, connect via USB-C to the dock while docked—power on the console, plug in, and it pairs instantly. Wirelessly, press and hold the SYNC button (small black button near USB port) for 1 second until player LEDs flash, then press L+R on the controller once detected. Original Switch Pro Controllers follow the same SYNC process after powering on.
Joy-Con Pairing Guide
Slide original or new Joy-Cons off any console, press the SYNC button on the rail (underside black button) until green lights flash rapidly. In Change Grip/Order, select the slot and press L+R to assign—supports up to 8 controllers for multiplayer like Mario Kart. Detach and reattach for handheld mode as usual.
Third-Party Controllers
Connect via USB-C to a console USB port first for initial sync, then go to Controllers > Change Grip/Order, press L+R+A, and unplug for wireless use. Update firmware via System Settings > Controllers and Accessories for compatibility; brands like 8BitDo work with button remapping.
Troubleshooting Tips
If no detection, restart console, reset controller by holding SYNC 10+ seconds, or check for interference from Wi-Fi routers. Docked mode prioritizes USB for stability during TV play. Backward compatibility ensures all Switch 1 controllers function fully post-pairing.
Multiplayer Optimization
Assign controllers in order for 4-player setups—Player 1 LED stays lit post-pair. Disconnect extras via the same menu to save battery. Firmware updates enhance latency for competitive games.
Nintendo Switch 2 simplifies controller pairing with backward compatibility for original Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers, plus new models, using intuitive Bluetooth syncing or USB methods.
Basic Pairing Process
From the HOME Menu, select Controllers > Change Grip/Order to activate detection mode, keeping controllers charged and nearby. Official guides recommend this screen for all wireless setups, supporting up to 8 players.
Pro Controller Steps
For Switch 2 Pro Controllers, dock the console and connect via USB-C—it pairs automatically on power-up. Wirelessly, hold the SYNC button (top near USB) for 1 second until LEDs flash, then press L+R when listed. Original Switch Pro Controllers use the same SYNC hold after a console restart, often requiring USB initialization first.
Joy-Con Connection
Detach Joy-Cons from any Switch, press the black SYNC button on the side rail until lights blink fast, then select in Change Grip/Order and press L+R or SL+SR. Reattach for handheld play; this resets drift-prone originals seamlessly.
Third-Party Fixes
Plug into a USB port on the docked console, enter pairing mode, press L+R+A, then unplug. Firmware updates via System Settings > Controllers ensure 8BitDo or similar brands remap buttons correctly.
Common Troubleshooting
Bluetooth audio devices block pairing—disconnect them first, update system software, and retry SYNC+L/R. For stubborn Pros, restart console, cable-sync in dock, then unplug during detection; reset by holding SYNC 10 seconds if unresponsive.
Multiplayer and Tips
Assign slots sequentially for games like Smash Bros; docked TV mode stabilizes connections. Avoid Wi-Fi interference, and check battery—low power halts syncing.
