Summary
The Nintendo Switch has been out for quite some time, but with recent hits likeThe Legend of Zelda: Tears of the KingdomandSuper Mario Bros. Wonder,plus Switch 2 on the horizon, plenty of new players are finally dipping their toes into the world of Nintendo gaming. Naturally, players who have an original Switch or the Switch OLED will need controllers to play games. Although wired controllers offer a great way to keep playing forever, most controllers for the Switch are wireless and thus need to be charged. So, how long does charging a Switch controller take?
Types of Nintendo Switch Controllers
Players should be aware that there are four main types of Nintendo controllers on the market, and they all take different amounts of time to charge.
How Long Do Switch Controllers Last?
Each type of controller lasts a different amount of time. Pro controllers last approximately 40 hours. Third-party options usually have power for far less time than name-brand options, especially if they also offer RGB lighting, which is admittedly rare among wireless controllers.
While battery life is hit-and-miss with third-party controllers, some ofthe best budget Switch controllerscan last the full 40 hours. Some high-end PC controllers that are compatible with the Switch can last even longer.
How Long Do Joy-Cons Last?
Typically, first-party Joy-Cons will last through 20 hours of gameplay. That’s fairly high among motion controllers, even though it has an unimpressive battery life when compared to traditional gamepads.
Third-party Joy-Cons usually list their battery life as 20 hours, but it’s not uncommon to find a third-party option with an extremely short battery life. In general, third-party Joy-Cons are somewhat unreliable, regarding both their stated specs and responsiveness.
How to Charge Switch Controllers
Charging Switch controllers is super easy. There are three main ways to charge a Switch controller:
Do Switch controllers charge while playing?
Yes, using a USB cord, players can continue to game even while charging their controller. However, charging will be significantly slowed if the controller is being used at the same time.
How to Charge Joy-Cons
Joy-Cons have more limited options when it comes to charging. There are still three main ways to charge them, but these methods are less convenient than the Pro controller’s options:
Do Joy-Cons charge while docked?
Joy-Cons can work while attached to the Switch in handheld mode, but they won’t be able to function while in docked mode.
Can Joy-Cons be over-charged?
No, Joy-Cons cannot be overcharged because they use lithium-ion batteries with built-in safeguards to prevent damage to the controller.
Joy-Cons take approximately three and a half hours to fully charge, according to Nintendo. Third-party options will vary, so users should check the specs before purchasing.
These two charging docks are excellent choices for most gamers.
Kytok Switch Charging Dock & Games Organizer Station with Controller Charger
The Kytok Switch Charging Dock & Games Organizer Station with Controller Charger is an all-in-one device ready to serve every Nintendo fan’s needs. Especially helpful for households of Switch gamers, this improved dock not only powers the Switch but also charges Joy-Cons. It holds two controllers, 12 game cards, and 16 game cases.
HORI Nintendo Switch Joy-Con Charge Stand
The Hori Switch Joy-Con charge stand is officially licensed by Nintendo and makes the charging cycle of joy-cons extremely convenient. This stand can charge up to four Joy-Cons simultaneously, and the LED indicators will turn off when fully charged.Plug the USB cable directly into the Switch dock, and never worry about having a dead controller again.
How Long Does it Take to Charge Pro Controllers for the Switch?
Pro controllers for the Switch take about six hours to charge, regardless of whether they are from Nintendo or a licensed manufacturer. Some high-end controllers may charge faster, but the quick charging feature is typically not worth the higher price on its own.
Game Rant’s Favorite Switch Controllers
Players looking to get a Switch controller that will last through every adventure and every boss battle can depend on these controller options, which are some of the best around.
Nintendo Switch Pro Wireless Controller
While the price tag may be higher than some other options, the Nintendo Switch Pro Wireless Controller is the best overall controller for the Nintendo Switch. It’s perfectly sized, has a massive 40-hour battery life, and has seamless connectivity. It features motion controls, HD rumble, built-in Amiibo functionality, and much more.
PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch - Mario Pop
Mario is the perfect representation of everything that is fun about video games. Rock this classic Super Mario look on a controller that has many premium features. 30 hours of battery life and two mappable, extra buttons on the back are just two of the reasons that make this a great gaming controller.
Nintendo Switch Joy-Con
Joy-Con controllers offer a versatile twist on the average controller, making new kinds of gaming possible for the Nintendo Switch system. These controllers offer a surprising number of ways to game, creating a new and exciting experience for gamers and developers alike. Joy-Con halves can be used independently in each hand as a standalone controller, or used together as one game controller when attached to the Joy-Con grip. They can also attach to the main console for use in handheld mode, or be shared among friends to enjoy local co-op action in supported games. Each Joy-Con has a full set of buttons and can act as a standalone controller, and each includes an accelerometer and gyro-sensor, making independent left and right motion control possible. This controller set includes 1 left Joy-Con, 1 right Joy-Con, and 2 black Joy-Con wrist strap accessories.
