Xbox controllers are not exclusive to Xbox consoles. They can be connected to other devices, such as your computer, for a better gaming experience. This connectivity is thanks to their compatibility with USB-C and Bluetooth.
Do you know what else uses Bluetooth? Your Nintendo Switch. This means you can connect your Xbox controller to your Switch. In this article, we’ll teach you how to connect an Xbox controller to your Switch to help you ace every game you’ll play.
Requirements When Connecting Your Xbox Controller to Switch
Your Xbox controller and Nintendo Switch are two different devices. For this reason, you need to meet specific requirements before connecting them.
Here are the prerequisites before using an Xbox controller on Switch:
- Compatibility.
Your Nintendo Switch is compatible with the Xbox One, Xbox X|S, and Xbox Elite. - USB-C Cable.
This is optional if you opt for a wired connection. Xbox controllers are plug-and-play, so using a USB-C cable is ideal to make a quick connection.
If you’re using a cable to connect your Xbox controller and Switch, just plug the USB-C end into your controller and the other end to your Switch’s dock. - Wireless Adapter.
This device converts Bluetooth signal, allowing your Xbox controller and Switch to establish a connection. There are many wireless adapters you can purchase online. Among the best are the Mayflash Magic NS and 8BitDo Wireless USB Adapter 2.
How to Connect an Xbox Controller to Switch
Before you can use an Xbox controller on Switch, you first need to update your console to the latest firmware version.
Find out how to perform a system update to your Switch on Nintendo Support.
Here are the steps to connect an Xbox controller to your Switch:
Step 1: Enable “Pro Controller Wired Communication”
Go to your Nintendo Switch’s “System Settings > Controller & Sensors” to find this option.
Step 2: Dock Your Nintendo Switch
Step 3: Connect Your Wireless Adapter to Your Switch’s Dock
We’re using the 8BitDo Wireless USB Adapter 2 for this tutorial.
Step 4: Put Your Wireless Adapter to “Pairing” Mode
You’ll find a small button at the bottom of your wireless adapter. Hold this until the blue indicator light starts blinking.
You might notice your controller turning off when you rest from gaming. If you don’t want this feature, you can make your Xbox controller not turn off.
Step 5: Put Your Xbox Controller to “Pairing” Mode
Press the top button on your Xbox controller and wait for the indicator light to flash.
Xbox Support has more information about your controller’s pairing button.
Step 6: Wait for Your Devices to Connect
You will know that your Xbox controller has successfully connected to your Nintendo Switch when the indicator lights on the adapter and the controller stops flashing.
Step 7: Test the Connection
You can connect your Nintendo Switch to a TV for a larger gaming screen. Nintendo Support has a step-by-step guide for this setup.
Common Issues When Connecting Your Xbox Controller to Switch
Now that you know how to use an Xbox controller on your Switch, you should check the common issues you might face after setting up your devices. Knowing these issues allows you to troubleshoot them and ensure hassle-free gaming.
Here are the common issues on Xbox controller and Nintendo Switch connection and how to troubleshoot them:
- Your Controller Is Not Working.
This issue occurs primarily if your Xbox controller does not support Bluetooth. In this case, you must connect your controller using a USB-C cable. - Your Devices Won’t Pair.
You might not have put one of your devices into pairing mode. Check that your adapter and controller’s indicator lights are blinking to ensure they are in pairing mode. Remember, both devices’ lights should stop blinking when they are paired. - Limited Features.
Feature limitation is not something you can fix. Since Xbox controllers are not made for Switch, it may lack some features, such as trigger vibrations.
What Is the Downside of Using an Xbox Controller on Nintendo Switch?
The main downside of using an Xbox controller on Nintendo Switch is the lack of some features. When connected to the Switch, the Xbox controller doesn’t have rumble, Near Field Communication (NFC), analog trigger, trigger vibration, or IR input.
In addition, an Xbox controller’s button is mapped differently than your Nintendo Switch. For this reason, you might feel unfamiliar with using it at first.
Check out the map of Nintendo Switch’s buttons on Nintendo Support.
Enjoy More Comfortable Gaming on Your Nintendo Switch
If you have always been an Xbox user, connecting your controller to your Nintendo Switch can provide a more seamless gaming experience. This is especially true if you play Switch games on a larger screen.
Any wireless adapter will work to connect your devices. However, to ensure an efficient connection, it’s better to choose the one many gamers already use.
