how long does it take a switch controller to charge

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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17-01-2025

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How Long Does it Take to Charge a Switch Controller?

Charging your Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controllers or the Pro Controller is a regular part of gaming. But how long does it actually take? The charging time depends on several factors, including the controller type and its current battery level. Let's break it down.

Charging Time for Joy-Con Controllers

The Joy-Con controllers are the smaller controllers that come with the Nintendo Switch console. Their charging time varies depending on several factors:

• Starting Battery Level: A completely drained Joy-Con will take longer to charge than one with some power remaining.
• Charging Method: Are you charging them in the console or using a separate charging dock? Charging in the console tends to be slightly slower.
• Charger Output: Using a higher-wattage charger (within safe limits for your device) could slightly reduce charging time.

Generally, expect a full charge to take anywhere from 3 to 4 hours. This is an estimate, and you may find it takes a little less or a little more time depending on the factors above. You'll know they're fully charged when the charging indicator lights turn off (if applicable to your charging method).

Charging Time for the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

The Pro Controller is a larger, more traditional style controller. It also has a slightly larger battery than the Joy-Con controllers, leading to a longer charging time:

• Full Charge Time: A completely depleted Pro Controller will usually take around 6 hours to reach a full charge. Again, this can vary slightly based on the charger used and any minor manufacturing differences.
• Charging Indicators: The Pro Controller usually displays a charging indicator light, so you can monitor its progress. This indicator light will usually turn off when fully charged.

Tips for Optimizing Charging Time

While you can't dramatically alter the charging time, here are a few tips to potentially reduce the time or maximize battery life:

• Use the Official Nintendo Charger: Using a non-Nintendo charger could lead to inconsistent charging or even damage your controllers. Stick to the official charger for optimal performance and safety.
• Charge When Not in Use: Avoid constantly charging the controllers while actively using them. This can sometimes put unnecessary strain on the battery over time.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Don't charge your controllers in extremely hot or cold environments. Extreme temperatures can damage the battery and affect charging times.
• Check the Battery Health: Over time, batteries degrade. If your charging times seem much longer than usual, the battery may need replacing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: My Joy-Con controllers aren't charging. What should I do?

A: First, ensure the controllers are properly connected to the charging source. Check your charging cable and the ports on the controllers and console. If the issue persists, try a different charging cable or outlet. If you are using a third party charger, try using an official Nintendo charger to rule out that as the issue. If problems continue, contact Nintendo support.

Q: How can I tell if my Switch controllers are charged?

A: The method for checking charge status varies depending on the controller. Joy-Cons typically show a battery indicator when docked, and may flash a light briefly when fully charged. The Pro Controller has a dedicated charging indicator light. The Switch's system settings also display the battery levels of connected controllers.

Q: Can I overcharge my Switch controllers?

A: No. Modern lithium-ion batteries, such as those found in Switch controllers, have built-in protection circuits to prevent overcharging. Once they reach a full charge, the charging process stops automatically.

By understanding the factors that influence charging time, you can better manage your Switch controllers' power and enjoy uninterrupted gameplay. Remember to always use official Nintendo chargers to maintain the health of your controllers.