Ethan Brooks
How To Pair a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller with Your New Nintendo Switch 2
Getting your Nintendo Switch Pro Controller to talk to the new Nintendo Switch 2 isn’t exactly rocket science, but it can feel a bit frustrating if you’re trying to do it for the first time. Sometimes the controller refuses to pair, or you think it’s connected but then it suddenly cuts out. This guide walks through the real-world steps to get that Pro Controller synced up without too much hassle. If you follow this, you’ll be gaming wirelessly in no time, and hopefully, it’ll be pretty seamless. Because of course, Nintendo has to make everything just a little harder than necessary sometimes.
How to Fix Pro Controller Connection Issues on Nintendo Switch 2
Method 1: Making sure the controller is properly in pairing mode
First off, if the controller isn’t in pairing mode, it’ll be like talking to a wall. This applies if your controller isn’t showing up or stops flashing lights after a few seconds. So, here’s what to do —
- On the top of the Pro Controller, find the Sync button. It’s usually right next to the charging port near the top edge.
- Press and hold that Sync button for about 2 seconds. The controller’s LEDs should start flashing, indicating it’s now in pairing mode.
On some machines, this step takes a bit of patience. If it’s not flashing, try again — sometimes it just doesn’t register the first attempt. Also, a quick charge might help if the controller’s been sitting around for a while — no one wants a dead battery in the middle of a game.
Method 2: Using the Settings Menu to Pair
Once your controller is flashing, it’s time to tell the Switch 2 to recognize it. Here’s where to go —
- Head over to the Home menu, then navigate to Settings.
- Scroll down to find Controllers. It’s usually near the bottom of the settings list.
- Select Change Grip/Order. This puts your console into pairing mode and will scan for nearby controllers.
The connection should happen pretty quickly. You’ll see the controller icon appear, and the lights on the controller should stop flashing and stay on — that’s how you know it’s connected.
Method 3: Troubleshooting the connection
If your controller still refuses to connect, a couple things to double-check —
- Make sure your Pro Controller is charged. Unpairing a dead battery won’t do ya any favors.
- Ensure your Switch 2’s firmware is up to date — sometimes Bluetooth issues get fixed in system updates.
- Try restarting your Switch 2. Press and hold the Power button, then select Power Options > Restart. This can clear out small glitches blocking the connection.
On some setups, this process can feel hit-or-miss. On one machine, it might connect on the first try, on another, you might have to repeat or do a full reboot.
Extra tips and things to watch out for
Sometimes, even if the controller shows as connected, it’s not responsive. Make sure the firmware on your Switch 2 is the latest — firmware updates often improve Bluetooth connectivity. Also, if you’re in a place with a lot of wireless interference (like near Wi-Fi routers, microwaves, or other Bluetooth devices), that can mess with pairing. Moving closer or turning off other Bluetooth devices temporarily can help.
Wrap-up
Getting that Pro Controller paired up can be a little annoying, especially if it’s your first time. But honestly, once you get past the initial setup, it’s usually smooth sailing. Just be patient, make sure everything’s charged, and do a quick system reboot if things get buggy. That’s usually enough to fix most hiccups. Hopefully this shaves off a few hours for someone.
Summary
- Make sure your controller is charged and in pairing mode (Sync button held for 2 seconds).
- Use the Change Grip/Order menu in Controller settings to pair.
- Check for firmware updates and reboot if needed.
- Avoid interference from other wireless devices during setup.
Final thoughts
Connecting your Pro Controller doesn’t have to be a headache. Usually, with these tips, it just works on the second or third try. If it’s being stubborn, sometimes restarting or re-pairing is all it takes. Fingers crossed this helps — happy gaming!