Connect Switch Controller To Windows PC Via USB: A Detailed Guide

Hey gamers! Want to use your Nintendo Switch controller on your Windows PC? It's totally doable and can seriously enhance your PC gaming experience. Whether you're into action-packed adventures or strategic simulations, using a familiar controller can give you that edge you need. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to connect your Switch controller to your Windows PC using a USB cable. Let's dive in!

Why Use a Switch Controller on Your PC?

Before we get started, let's talk about why you might want to use your Switch controller on your PC in the first place. There are several reasons, and they all boil down to making your gaming experience better. The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, for example, is a popular choice among gamers for its ergonomic design and comfortable grip, which can be a major plus during those long gaming sessions. Unlike some generic gamepads, the Pro Controller feels great in your hands, reducing fatigue and improving your overall enjoyment.

Another reason is familiarity. If you're used to playing games on your Nintendo Switch, using the same controller on your PC means you don't have to learn a new control scheme. This can be a huge advantage, especially when jumping between platforms. Plus, the Switch controller has motion controls, which can add a unique element to certain PC games that support it. The versatility of the Switch controller makes it a fantastic option for PC gaming.

Also, let’s not forget about those Joy-Cons! Sure, they might be small, but they can be surprisingly effective, especially for local multiplayer games on your PC. Imagine playing a retro game with a friend, each using a Joy-Con – it’s like bringing the Nintendo Switch experience right to your computer. Using your Switch controller on your PC is all about convenience, comfort, and enhancing your gaming experience.

What You'll Need

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s make sure you have everything you need. This is a pretty straightforward process, so the list is short and sweet. First, you'll need your Nintendo Switch Pro Controller or Joy-Cons. Obviously, right? Make sure they’re charged up and ready to go. Next, you’ll need a Windows PC. This guide is tailored for Windows, so make sure you’re running a compatible version.

The most crucial thing you'll need is a USB cable. A standard USB-A to USB-C cable will work perfectly for the Pro Controller, since the controller has a USB-C port. If you're planning to use Joy-Cons, you’ll need to connect them individually, and a USB connection might not be the most practical option. For Joy-Cons, consider using a Bluetooth connection, which we'll cover in another guide. For now, let's stick to the USB connection for the Pro Controller.

Optionally, you might want to download a program called BetterJoy. This handy tool helps your PC recognize the Switch controller as an Xbox controller, which can solve compatibility issues with some games. While it’s not strictly necessary, it can make the whole process smoother and ensure that your controller works with as many games as possible. Think of it as a little helper that makes everything play nice together. Having these items ready will ensure that you have a smooth connection from your Nintendo Switch Controller to your Windows PC.

Step-by-Step Guide: Connecting Your Switch Controller via USB

Alright, let's get down to the main event: connecting your Switch controller to your Windows PC via USB. Follow these steps carefully, and you'll be gaming in no time!

Step 1: Connect the Controller

First, grab your USB cable and plug the USB-C end into your Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. Then, plug the other end (usually a USB-A) into an available USB port on your Windows PC. Make sure the connection is secure. Sometimes, a loose connection can cause issues, so double-check that everything is plugged in properly.

Step 2: Windows Recognizes the Controller

Once you plug in the controller, Windows should automatically detect it. You might see a notification pop up in the bottom right corner of your screen saying that a new device has been recognized. If Windows doesn't recognize it immediately, give it a minute or two. Sometimes it takes a little while for the drivers to install.

Step 3: Testing the Connection

To make sure the controller is working, you can go to the Device Manager on your PC. To do this, search for "Device Manager" in the Windows search bar and open it. Look for "Human Interface Devices" or "Other devices." You should see your Nintendo Switch Pro Controller listed. If it has a yellow exclamation mark next to it, that means there’s a driver issue. Don’t worry, we’ll cover how to fix that in the next section.

Step 4: Using BetterJoy for Enhanced Compatibility (Optional)

If you want to ensure the best compatibility with your games, download and install BetterJoy. This program tricks your PC into thinking the Switch controller is an Xbox controller, which is supported by almost all PC games. To install BetterJoy, download the latest version from GitHub, extract the files, and run the BetterJoyForCemu.exe file. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the drivers. Once installed, BetterJoy will run in the background and automatically handle the controller input. Now, your Nintendo Switch Controller should work seamlessly with the Windows PC.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best instructions, things can sometimes go wrong. Here are a few common issues you might encounter and how to fix them.

Issue 1: Controller Not Recognized

If your PC isn’t recognizing the controller at all, the first thing to check is the USB connection. Make sure the cable is securely plugged into both the controller and your PC. Try using a different USB port on your computer. Sometimes, certain USB ports can be finicky. If that doesn’t work, try a different USB cable. It’s possible that the cable itself is faulty.

If the hardware seems fine, the issue might be with the drivers. Go to the Device Manager, find your controller (it might be listed under “Unknown devices” if it’s not properly recognized), right-click on it, and select “Update driver.” Choose “Search automatically for drivers,” and let Windows try to find the correct drivers. If that doesn’t work, you can also try manually installing the drivers by downloading them from the Nintendo website or using BetterJoy.

Issue 2: Controller Input Lag

Input lag can be a real buzzkill, especially in fast-paced games. If you’re experiencing lag, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure that no other programs are hogging your computer’s resources. Close any unnecessary applications that are running in the background. High CPU or memory usage can cause input lag.

Another thing to try is updating your graphics drivers. Outdated graphics drivers can sometimes cause performance issues, including input lag. Visit the website of your graphics card manufacturer (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) and download the latest drivers. Using BetterJoy can help reduce input lag by optimizing the controller input.

Issue 3: Game Not Recognizing the Controller

If your controller is recognized by Windows but isn’t working in a specific game, the problem might be with the game’s controller settings. Check the game’s options menu and make sure that controller input is enabled. Some games might require you to manually select the controller from a list of available devices.

If the game doesn’t natively support the Switch controller, BetterJoy can come to the rescue. By emulating an Xbox controller, BetterJoy can trick the game into thinking you’re using a supported controller. Just make sure BetterJoy is running in the background while you’re playing the game.

Conclusion

Connecting your Nintendo Switch controller to your Windows PC via USB is a fantastic way to enhance your gaming experience. Whether you’re using a Pro Controller or Joy-Cons, the process is relatively straightforward. By following this guide, you should be able to get your controller up and running in no time. Remember to troubleshoot any issues that might arise, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different settings and software to find what works best for you. Happy gaming!