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Yes. Nintendo lets up to two parents or guardians in the same Nintendo Account family group manage a child’s Nintendo Switch through the free Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app. Each adult uses their own Nintendo Account and smart device; once sharing is set up, either parent can update controls for the linked consoles.
What you need before setting up shared controls
- Each parent must have their own Nintendo Account and be designated as a Parent/Guardian in the same family group as the child. An adult aged 18 or older needs a Nintendo Account to use the app. Nintendo’s parental controls overview and sharing instructions describe these requirements.
- Each parent needs a smart device with the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app installed. Nintendo lists compatibility as iOS 16.0 or newer and Android 8.0 or newer in its support guidance.
- The app is free, and an internet connection is needed to use it with the console. Nintendo does not say that either parent must buy a new device.
How to let a second parent manage the controls
- Install the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app on both parents’ smart devices.
- On one parent’s device, link the Nintendo Switch console to the app. Follow the app’s on-screen pairing instructions.
- In the app, open Shared Parental Controls and begin setup.
- Select the other parent from the family-group members shown. On the second parent’s device, accept the invitation and choose to start sharing.
- Once sharing is active, either parent can change parental-control settings for consoles linked to either device.
If the second parent does not appear in the setup list, check that both adults are in the child’s Nintendo Account family group and have the Parent/Guardian role. Nintendo’s sharing setup also allows the family-group admin to invite a member. See Nintendo’s step-by-step instructions.
What parents can manage—and what applies to everyone on the console
The app includes play-time limits and gameplay history, as well as age restrictions and other feature controls. Nintendo describes two parents sharing the ability to check play activity and set time limits. Some restrictions, including eShop spending and content visibility, are handled through Nintendo Account settings rather than solely through the console app; Nintendo outlines the different control paths in its overview and parental-controls FAQ.
One important limitation is that many console controls are system-wide rather than tied to a child’s profile. Nintendo says play-time limits apply to the console and restrict all users of that system equally. Play history can be reviewed separately by user when both the console and app are up to date, according to the support FAQ.
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#1 Best Overall
- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
The app offers the broadest set of restrictions and features; some settings are instead configured directly on the console or in Nintendo Account settings. Choose the relevant path based on the control you want to manage, as described in Nintendo’s FAQ.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How many accounts and consoles can a family cover?
A Nintendo Account family group can include up to eight users. Each parent can link up to eight consoles to the app, so two parents can cover up to sixteen consoles in total if each manages eight. These are separate limits: the family-group cap is eight accounts, while the console allowance is per parent’s app account. See Nintendo’s pages on family groups and shared parental controls.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- One player can use a Joy-Con in each hand
- Two players can each take one
- Multiple Joy-Con can be employed by numerous people for a variety of gameplay options (additional Joy-Con sold separately)
- Slip a set of Joy-Con into a Joy-Con grip accessory, mirroring a more traditional controller. Or, select an optional Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Rank #4
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- 6.2” LCD screen.
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
Rank #3
- Play your way with the Nintendo Switch gaming system. Whether you’re at home or on the go, solo or with friends, the Nintendo Switch system is designed to fit your life. Dock your Nintendo Switch to enjoy HD gaming on your TV. Heading out? Just undock your console and keep playing in handheld mode
- This model includes battery life of approximately 4.5 - 9 hours.
- The battery life will depend on the games you play. For instance, the battery will last approximately 5.5 hours for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (games sold separately)
- Model number HAC 001( 01)
Rank #2
- 6.2” LCD screen
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
- Nintendo Switch is the home of Mario & friends
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.
