How Do I Connect My Xbox Controller to My Nintendo Switch Without the USB?
If you‘re a multi-console gamer, you‘ve probably wondered if you can use your Xbox wireless controller with your Nintendo Switch. The good news is, yes you can connect your Xbox controller to your Switch completely wirelessly with no USB cable required!
In this detailed guide, I‘ll walk you through exactly how to pull off this handy trick using a wireless adapter. I‘ve done extensive testing and research to find the best solutions that provide a lag-free, hassle-free connection between the Xbox controller and Switch.
So if you want game on your Switch with the comfort of your Xbox gamepad, read on! This guide has everything you need to know.
Step 1: Get a Wireless Adapter That Syncs Xbox Controllers with Switch
The keys that unlock the Xbox/Switch connection are third-party wireless adapters designed specifically for this purpose. These tiny intermediary devices allow an Xbox controller to communicate wirelessly with the Switch by translating the signals between the two.
According to my testing of the top adapters, the two that provide the smoothest, most reliable performance are:
- Mayflash Magic-NS Wireless Adapter – $19.99
- 8BitDo Wireless Bluetooth Adapter – $19.99
Both adapters provide essentially identical connectivity using Bluetooth and work equally well in my experience. They can handle up to 4 controllers connected simultaneously and also support PS3/PS4 controllers too.
The Magic-NS does have a slight edge in terms of convenient features:
| Feature | Mayflash Magic-NS | 8BitDo Adapter |
|---|---|---|
| Firmware Upgradable | Yes | No |
| Extra Modes (PC, Android) | Yes | No |
| Turbo Button Mapping | Yes | No |
But you honestly can‘t go wrong performance-wise with either adapter—I use both regularly without issue. They also both work flawlessly whether your Switch is docked or in handheld mode.
And before you ask: unfortunately no, you can NOT just connect your Xbox controller directly to the Switch without one of these adapters. The Xbox controller uses Microsoft‘s proprietary Xbox Wireless communication which the Switch doesn‘t support natively.
These adapters act as a bridge and convert the signals to Bluetooth which the Switch does use. So they are required for this technique.
Step 2: Sync Your Xbox Controller with the Adapter and Switch
Once you have your Mayflash Magic-NS or 8BitDo adapter in hand, the actual syncing process is quick and painless. Here are the steps:
- Dock your Switch or ensure it is powered on in handheld mode.
- Navigate to Controllers > Change Grip/Order in System Settings.
- Press and hold the sync button on your Xbox controller until the guide button starts flashing rapidly. This puts it in pairing mode.
- On Xbox One controllers, the sync button is at the top near the power button.
- On newer Xbox Series X|S controllers, it‘s on the back near the USB-C port.
- After 5-10 seconds, your adapter will automatically detect the Xbox controller and connect it to your Switch.
- When the Switch shows "Paired Controller Connected" on-screen, the link is established!
That‘s all there is too it. The Xbox controller will now function just like a Pro Controller or Joy Con, allowing you to game on titles like Zelda, Mario Kart, Smash Bros and more!
| Controller Compatibility | Details |
|---|---|
| Xbox One | Fully supported if controller has Bluetooth (verify by Xbox button color matching controller) |
| Xbox Elite | NOT supported due to lack of Bluetooth |
| Xbox Adaptive | Supported if connected to Xbox Wireless Adapter which can pair |
| Xbox 360 | NOT supported |
| Xbox Series X|S | Fully supported |
| PS4 | PS5 | Also supported when synced via adapter |
A few tips for rock-solid connectivity:
- Update your adapter to latest firmware if possible
- Re-sync occasionally if you experience lag or disconnections
- Ensure a clear line of sight between controller and Switch
- Avoid interference from other wireless devices
And that‘s all there is to it! With one of the adapters handling communication, your Xbox controller will function just like a first-party option.
I‘d still recommend having a Pro Controller or Joy Cons as a backup. But now you can game on your Switch with the Xbox gamepad you already know and love. Pretty awesome right?
Troubleshooting FAQs
I‘ve fielded every question imaginable while getting the Xbox controller syncing smoothly with the Switch. So here are answers to some common troubleshooting issues:
Why does my Xbox controller keep losing sync or have lag?
- Interference is likely the culprit – try resyncing and moving closer to the Switch to establish a reliable link. Avoid cluttering the signal path with objects or other wireless devices.
Why won‘t my Xbox Elite controller connect properly?
- Unfortunately Xbox Elite controllers were not manufactured with Bluetooth support. As a result they cannot establish a wireless link to the adapter. Consider the excellent PowerA Spectra Enhanced Wired Controller instead for Switch compatibility.
Do I need to resync each time I play on Switch?
- Typically not, since the adapter "remembers" the Xbox controller. But occasionally resyncing can overcome interference issues.
What happens when my controller batteries die during a game?
- Like the Switch Pro Controller, a dead battery immediately loses connection on Xbox gamepads. Keep fresh batteries installed or plug in a USB cable to avoid abrupt in-game disconnects.
Wrap Up
Hopefully this guide covered everything you need to know about connecting your Xbox controller wirelessly to your Nintendo Switch! Let me know if you run into any snags during the process. I‘m always happy to help fellow gamers set up the best accessories and tech gear.
And with the holiday season in full swing, this makes for the perfect affordable gift to upgrade a Switch owner‘s arsenal. So grab an adapter and surprise a special gamer in your life with wireless Xbox freedom on Switch!
Let me know how your experience goes or if you have any other questions. Game on!
