Why is my wireless controller not connecting to my switch?

Answered by Frank Schwing

There can be several reasons why your wireless controller is not connecting to your Switch. Let’s go through some troubleshooting steps to help you resolve this issue.

1. Check the battery: Ensure that your controller has enough charge to establish a connection. As mentioned earlier, allow your controllers to charge for at least 6 hours or until the orange light at the top of the controller turns off. If the battery is low, the controller may not be able to connect properly. If necessary, replace the battery with a fully charged one.

2. Check the controller pairing: Make sure your controller is properly paired with your Switch. To do this, follow these steps:
– On your Switch, go to the “Home” menu.
– Select “Controllers and Settings.”
– Choose “Change Grip/Order.”
– Press and hold the sync button on the back of your controller for a few seconds until the lights start flashing.
– On your Switch, click on the “+” or “-” button to add a controller.
– Your controller should now be connected.

3. Check for interference: Wireless signals can be affected by other devices or objects that may interfere with the connection. Make sure you are not too far away from your Switch, as distance can weaken the signal. Additionally, avoid placing any large metal objects or electronic devices between the controller and the Switch, as they can disrupt the wireless connection.

4. Reset the controller: Sometimes, resetting the controller can help resolve connectivity issues. To reset your controller, follow these steps:
– On the back of the controller, locate the small reset button.
– Use a paperclip or a similar object to press and hold the reset button for a few seconds.
– Release the button and wait for the controller to power off.
– Turn the controller back on and try connecting it to your Switch again.

5. Update your system software: Ensure that your Switch and controller are running the latest software versions. Outdated software can sometimes cause connectivity problems. To update your system software, follow these steps:
– Connect your Switch to the internet.
– Go to the “System Settings” on your Switch.
– Scroll down and select “System.”
– Choose “System Update” and follow the on-screen instructions to update your software.

6. Try a different controller: If none of the above steps work, try connecting a different controller to your Switch. This will help determine if the issue lies with the controller or the Switch itself. If the different controller connects successfully, it may indicate a problem with your original controller that requires further troubleshooting or replacement.

If you have tried all these steps and your controller still does not connect to your Switch, it may be necessary to contact Nintendo support for further assistance. They will be able to provide you with more specific troubleshooting steps or guide you through the process of getting a replacement controller if needed.