How do you connect your controllers to the Nintendo Switch?

Before you pair your Joy-Cons or Pro Controller with your Nintendo Switch, it's important that the battery is full. If your controllers have an empty battery, they won't connect to your Switch. You can charge the Pro Controller with a USB-C cable and the Joy-Cons by sliding them onto the screen of your Switch. You can read how to do this in the next step.

It's easiest to pair the left and right Joy-Cons to your Switch by sliding them onto the screen. The wrist straps of the Joy-Cons have to be removed for this.

1. Take the left Joy-Con and hold it with the minus button up.
2. Slide the left Joy-Con into the left slit of the Nintendo Switch screen.
3. Take the right Joy-Con and hold it with the plus button up.
4. Slide the right Joy-Con into the right slit of the Nintendo Switch screen.

The Joy-Cons are now paired to your Nintendo Switch.

For many multiplayer games, you have to hold your Joy-Cons horizontally. Think of games that you play with large groups, like Mario Party or Super Smash Brothers. Follow the steps below to pair the Joy-Cons horizontally.

1. Go to 'controllers' in the main menu and choose 'Playstyle/change orientation'.
2. Hold the Joy-Cons with the slit at the top.
3. Press and hold the SL and SR buttons at the same time at the edge of the slit of the controllers.

The Joy-Cons now appear on the screen and they're ready for use.

In addition to the Joy-Cons, the Pro Controller is an excellent option for long gaming sessions. You can pair this controller in a slightly different way. You can read how to do so below.

1. Go to 'controllers' in the main menu and choose 'Synchronize new controllers'.
2. Take your Pro Controller and press the sync button at the top in between the shoulder buttons.
3. Check if the Pro Controller appears on your Nintendo Switch.

Doesn't this way work? Use a USB-C cable to pair the Pro Controller.