To temporarily disconnect a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, hold its SYNC Button for at least one second. Press any button to reconnect it. This does not erase the controller’s saved pairing.
Temporarily disconnect the Pro Controller
- Locate the small SYNC Button on the top edge of the controller.
- Hold SYNC for at least one second. The controller disconnects from the console.
- To reconnect it, press any button on the controller.
Nintendo describes this as temporarily disconnecting a wireless controller, not turning off the controller or removing its pairing. Nintendo Support’s controller-pairing FAQ documents the SYNC-button method.
Remove saved controller pairings instead
If you want the console to forget its wireless controller pairings, open System Settings → Controllers and Sensors → Disconnect Controllers. This clears all controller pairings, not just the Pro Controller, so you will need to pair the controllers again before using them wirelessly. See Nintendo’s pairing FAQ.
Turn off or put the Switch console to sleep
If you meant the console rather than the controller, hold the console’s POWER Button for at least three seconds. In the power menu, choose Sleep Mode, Restart, or Turn Off. These options control the console; they are separate from disconnecting the controller. Nintendo’s steps are in How to Access the Power Menu.
#1 Best Overall
- Take your game sessions up a notch with the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
- Handheld Nintendo Switch gaming at a great price
- Comes with charging cable (USB C to USB A)
If the controller will not reconnect
Pairing requires the Switch console to be powered on; Nintendo says a controller cannot be paired while the console is off or in sleep mode. Follow Nintendo’s Pro Controller pairing instructions.
If the player LEDs light briefly and then turn off when you press a button, Nintendo’s troubleshooting guidance indicates that the controller needs pairing. For charging or persistent power problems, use Nintendo’s Pro Controller power troubleshooting.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- This controller also works with Nintendo Switch 2 - C Button not available
- Eight RGB zones with four pre-set modes for dynamic lighting combinations
- Two programmable quick-action back buttons for customizable gameplay
- Built-in motion controls for immersive gameplay
- Ergonomic design for extended comfort
Rank #4
- WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY: Get the freedom to game anywhere with a 30-foot wireless range, and without the hassle of wires.
- RECHARGEABLE BATTERY: Save money and never need to buy, or waste, batteries again.
- UP TO 40 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE: Enjoy longer game play before needing to recharge.
- PRISMATIC LED LIGHTING: Customize the look of your controller to match your mood with the full color range and four lighting modes.
- MOTION-CONTROLS: Enhance your gaming experience to play the way the developer intended.
Rank #3
- This Amazon Renewed product is professionally inspected and tested by an Amazon qualified supplier. Box and accessories may be generic.
- Take your game sessions up a notch with the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
- Includes motion controls, HD rumble, built-in amiibo functionality, and more.
- Comes with charging cable (USB-C to USB-A)
Rank #2
- HD Rumble 2
- Motion controls
- Built-in amiibo functionality*
- Capture Button
- C Button for GameChat**
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.
