Nintendo Switch supports many types of controllers. You can also use Xbox One and PS4 controllers on Switch, provided you have the appropriate Nintendo Switch controller adapter. The instructions in this article apply to official PS4 and Xbox One controllers, but many third-party controllers work with Switch.
Which controllers work on Switch?
In addition to the Joy-Con controller pair supplied with the system, Switch supports several alternatives, including Nintendo Switch Pro and Wii U Pro controllers. You can even use a GameCube controller if you have the GameCube adapter for Wii U. There are also many gamepads third parties made specifically for Switch.
Surprisingly, Switch supports controllers for other game consoles, including DualShock 4 and many Xbox controllers. Most controllers that work with PS4 and Xbox One are compatible with Switch, including arcade-style fighting sticks like the Mayflash F300.
Using a PS4 or Xbox One controller is not ideal for playing exclusive Switch games like Zelda- Breath of the Wild, but they could be great for playing retro games and 2D platforms like Mega Man 11.
Nintendo Switch Controller Adapters
Although Nintendo Switch has Bluetooth capabilities, a special adapter is required to connect third-party devices. The Mayflash Magic-NS wireless controller adapter is a versatile tool compatible with many consoles, so it’s a worthwhile investment if you have a lot of old controllers at home.
There are other options like 8Bitdo, which also supports Wii remotes and DualShock 3 controllers. Considering the high price of the Switch Pro Controller, a 20 € adapter is preferable if you already have controllers for other systems. Just make sure it’s compatible with the Switch.
You can only connect one controller per adapter, so you’ll need two adapters if you want to use two external controllers.
How to use a PS4 controller on Switch
To connect an official DualShock 4 controller to your Nintendo Switch:
If your DualShock 4 is synchronized with a PlayStation 4 console, disconnect the console before you start, so that it does not interfere with the Switch adapter.
- Place the Switch in the dock and switch it on.
- Connect Magic-NS to one of the Nintendo Switch USB ports.
- Use the Joy-Con controllers to reactivate the Switch, then press L + R to associate both Joy-Contra to the console.
- Select System Settings from the main screen.
- Select Controller and sensors, then select Pro Controller Wired Communication to activate it.
- Select OK.
- Connect the PS4 controller to Magic-NS with a USB cable. The LED light on the controller should turn on, indicating that it has been detected.
- Press and hold the black button on the top of the Magic-NS adapter until the light on the back starts to flash.
- Simultaneously press the PS button and the Share button on the DualShock 4. The adapter should automatically detect it.
- You can disconnect the PS4 controller from the adapter and use it wirelessly as if it were a Switch Pro controller.
How to use an Xbox controller on Switch
The steps for using an Xbox One controller with Switch are the same as for setting up a PS4 controller. Press and hold the pairing button on the Xbox One controller while pressing the button on the adapter until the Xbox LED light starts flashing.
The buttons on the Xbox One controller are similar to Switch Pro. The only big difference is that you have to press View + Menu to take a screenshot.
The Mayflash Magic-NS adapter comes with a button and sticker mapping guide that you can place on non-switch controllers.
Limitations of using a PS4 or Xbox controller with Switch
Unfortunately, it is not possible to reactivate the Switch from sleep mode with a non-Nintendo controller, so you will still need a pair of Joy-Con controllers. Occasionally it may be necessary to disconnect the Switch again to allow the adapter to recognize other controllers.
That said, since both Joy-Cons still work while the PS4 controller is connected, you can play multiplayer games with the PS4 controller.
Button mapping is quite intuitive, although it is important to note that screenshots will be captured by pressing the PS4 controller’s touchpad. The Share button on the DualShock 4 is also associated with the minus ( – ) button on Joy-Con.
