Connect Switch Controller To PC Via USB: A Simple Guide

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Connect Switch Controller to PC via USB: A Simple Guide

Hey everyone! Want to use your trusty Nintendo Switch controller on your PC? Great news – it's super easy to set up using a USB connection! In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to get your Switch Pro Controller, Joy-Cons, or even a third-party Switch controller working flawlessly with your computer. Whether you're diving into epic PC games or just prefer the feel of your Switch controller, we've got you covered. Let's jump in!

Why Use a Switch Controller on Your PC?

Before we dive into the how-to, let's quickly cover why you might want to use your Switch controller on your PC in the first place. There are plenty of good reasons!

  • Comfort and Familiarity: Let's face it; some of us just love the way the Switch Pro Controller feels in our hands. It's ergonomic, comfortable, and those buttons are just perfect. If you're used to it, why switch to something else?
  • Versatility: Why buy a separate PC controller when you already have a perfectly good Switch controller sitting around? It's all about making the most of what you already own.
  • Game Compatibility: Many PC games offer controller support, and using a familiar controller can enhance your gaming experience. Plus, some games just feel better with a controller than a mouse and keyboard.
  • Multiplayer Fun: Imagine playing local multiplayer games on your PC with friends, each using their own Joy-Con. It's a fantastic way to bring the Switch experience to your PC gaming sessions.

Using your Nintendo Switch controller on your PC opens up a world of possibilities, enhancing your gaming experience with comfort and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned PC gamer or new to the platform, the familiar feel of your Switch controller can make your favorite games even more enjoyable. Plus, it saves you the cost of buying a dedicated PC controller. It's a win-win!

What You'll Need

Before we get started, here's what you'll need to connect your Switch controller to your PC:

  • A Nintendo Switch Controller: This could be a Pro Controller, a pair of Joy-Cons, or even a third-party Switch controller.
  • A USB Cable: A standard USB-A to USB-C cable for the Pro Controller, or a USB-A to Micro-USB for some third-party controllers. If you're using Joy-Cons, you'll need a way to keep them charged, like a charging grip or individual chargers.
  • A PC: Running Windows 10 or later is recommended for the best compatibility.
  • Steam (Optional but Recommended): Steam has built-in support for Switch controllers, making the setup process much easier.

Connecting Your Switch Pro Controller via USB

The Switch Pro Controller is arguably the best of the bunch when it comes to comfort and features. Connecting it via USB is straightforward:

  1. Plug It In: Connect your Switch Pro Controller to your PC using a USB cable. The controller has a USB-C port on the top.
  2. Windows Should Recognize It: In most cases, Windows will automatically recognize the controller as an input device. You might see a notification pop up in the bottom right corner of your screen.
  3. Test It: Open the Windows Game Controller settings (search for "Set up USB game controllers" in the Start menu). You should see your Pro Controller listed. Click on it and then click "Properties" to test the buttons and joysticks.

Using Steam for Enhanced Support

Steam offers excellent support for the Switch Pro Controller, allowing you to customize button mappings and take advantage of features like gyro controls:

  1. Open Steam: Launch the Steam application on your PC.
  2. Enter Big Picture Mode: Click on the "Big Picture Mode" icon in the top right corner of the Steam window. It looks like a rectangle with arrows pointing outwards.
  3. Go to Controller Settings: In Big Picture Mode, click on the gear icon to open the settings menu. Then, navigate to "Controller Settings."
  4. Enable Switch Pro Configuration Support: Check the box next to "Switch Pro Configuration Support." This will allow Steam to recognize and configure your Pro Controller.
  5. Customize Your Configuration (Optional): You can now customize the button mappings, joystick sensitivity, and gyro settings for your Pro Controller. Click on "Detected Controllers" and then select your Pro Controller to access these settings.

By following these simple steps, you can seamlessly connect your Switch Pro Controller to your PC, leveraging the enhanced support offered by Steam for a more personalized gaming experience. Steam's built-in features allow for extensive customization, ensuring that your controller behaves exactly as you want it to in every game. This integration not only simplifies the setup process but also opens up a range of possibilities for optimizing your gameplay.

Connecting Joy-Cons via USB

Connecting Joy-Cons to your PC via USB is a bit trickier because they're designed to be used wirelessly or attached to the Switch console. However, it's still possible:

  1. Individual Connection: You'll need to connect each Joy-Con individually to your PC using a USB cable (if your Joy-Cons have USB ports; some third-party ones do). Keep in mind that you'll likely need separate USB adapters or a charging dock that allows for USB connection.
  2. Windows Recognition: Like the Pro Controller, Windows should recognize the Joy-Cons as input devices. However, they might show up as separate controllers, which can be a bit awkward.
  3. Steam Configuration: Steam can help manage Joy-Cons, but it might not be as seamless as with the Pro Controller. Follow the same steps as above to enable Switch Pro Configuration Support in Steam's Controller Settings. You might need to experiment with different configurations to get them working properly.

Using Joy-Cons as a Single Controller

If you want to use both Joy-Cons as a single controller, you'll need to use a third-party program like BetterJoyForCemu or DS4Windows. These tools can combine the inputs from both Joy-Cons into a single virtual controller that your PC can recognize.

  1. Download and Install the Software: Download BetterJoyForCemu or DS4Windows from their respective websites and follow the installation instructions.
  2. Connect Your Joy-Cons: Connect each Joy-Con to your PC via USB.
  3. Configure the Software: Open BetterJoyForCemu or DS4Windows and follow the on-screen instructions to configure the software to recognize your Joy-Cons and combine their inputs.
  4. Test the Combined Controller: Once the software is configured, you should be able to test the combined controller in the Windows Game Controller settings or in Steam.

Connecting Joy-Cons to your PC opens up unique gaming possibilities, especially when using them as a combined controller. By leveraging software like BetterJoyForCemu or DS4Windows, you can effectively merge the inputs from both Joy-Cons into a single, unified controller, enhancing your gaming experience. This method not only provides a creative solution for using your existing hardware but also allows for greater flexibility in how you play your favorite games on PC.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with these steps, you might run into a few issues. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

  • Controller Not Recognized: Make sure the USB cable is securely connected to both the controller and your PC. Try a different USB port or cable. Restart your PC.
  • Driver Issues: Sometimes, Windows might not install the correct drivers automatically. You can try manually updating the drivers in Device Manager. Right-click on the controller in Device Manager and select "Update driver."
  • Steam Not Recognizing the Controller: Double-check that you've enabled "Switch Pro Configuration Support" in Steam's Controller Settings. Restart Steam.
  • Input Lag: Input lag can be caused by a weak USB connection or outdated drivers. Try closing other applications that might be using a lot of resources.

Wrapping Up

Connecting your Switch controller to your PC via USB is a fantastic way to enhance your PC gaming experience. Whether you're using a Pro Controller or Joy-Cons, the process is relatively straightforward, and the benefits are significant. You get to use a comfortable, familiar controller with your favorite PC games, and you save money by not having to buy a separate PC controller.

So go ahead, give it a try! Plug in your Switch controller, follow the steps in this guide, and get ready to enjoy your PC games in a whole new way. Happy gaming, folks!

By following this guide, you'll be well-equipped to connect your Nintendo Switch controller to your PC, opening up new possibilities for gaming and enhancing your overall experience. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the world of PC gaming, using your Switch controller on your computer offers a seamless and convenient way to play your favorite titles. So, grab your controller, follow these steps, and get ready to immerse yourself in a world of gaming fun!