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Can You Connect an Xbox Controller to a Switch Lite?

An Xbox controller can work with a Switch Lite through a compatible wireless adapter and USB-C OTG cable. Here’s how to connect it and what to expect.
Length3 min Posted Quest giverVGSources Team
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Yes—but not directly. To use a compatible Xbox controller with a Nintendo Switch Lite, you need a wireless USB adapter and a USB-C-to-USB-A OTG cable. 8BitDo documents this setup for its USB Wireless Adapter 2, which supports Xbox Series controllers and Bluetooth-enabled Xbox One controllers.

What you need

  • 8BitDo USB Wireless Adapter 2: 8BitDo lists Nintendo Switch support and compatibility with Xbox Series controllers and Xbox One Bluetooth controllers. See the adapter’s product page and compatibility FAQ.
  • A USB-C male to USB-A female OTG cable: This connects the adapter to the Switch Lite’s USB-C port in handheld mode, as specified in 8BitDo’s FAQ.
  • A supported Xbox controller: Not every Xbox One controller has Bluetooth. Check your exact model; 8BitDo specifies Bluetooth Xbox One controllers, not all Xbox One controllers.

How to connect the controller

  1. On the Switch Lite, open System Settings > Controller and Sensors and turn on Pro Controller Wired Communication. 8BitDo’s instructions specify Switch system version 3.0.0 or later. See the USB Adapter 2 setup instructions.
  2. Plug the USB Wireless Adapter 2 into the USB-A female end of the OTG cable, then connect the cable’s USB-C end to the Switch Lite.
  3. Press the adapter’s pairing button to put it into pairing mode.
  4. Turn on the Xbox controller, then hold its pairing button for three seconds during the first pairing. Wait for the adapter’s LED to become solid.
  5. After pairing, press the Xbox button on the controller to reconnect, as described in 8BitDo’s manual.

The manual also describes connecting the adapter to a Switch dock, but a Switch Lite has no dock connection. For handheld play, use the OTG cable arrangement specified in the handheld-mode FAQ.

Compatibility and limitations to know

Controller model matters

The Adapter 2 FAQ lists Xbox Series controllers and Xbox One Bluetooth controllers as supported, and says models not listed are not compatible. Confirm your controller model against the current manufacturer guidance before buying an adapter.

The original 8BitDo Wireless USB Adapter is a different product. Its product page warns that Xbox Bluetooth controllers using firmware released in September 2021 are no longer supported following a Bluetooth change. Do not assume compatibility information for the original adapter applies to Adapter 2, or vice versa. See the original Wireless USB Adapter page.

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#1 Best Overall
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8BitDo Wireless USB Adapter 2 for Switch 2, Windows PC, Mac & Raspberry Pi, Compatible with Xbox Series X & S Controller, Xbox One Bluetooth, Switch Pro and PS5 Controller (Black)
  • Controller compatibility: Xbox Series X Controller, Xbox Series S Controller, Xbox One Bluetooth Controller, PS5/PS4/PS3 Controller, Switch Pro, Wii Mote, Wii U Pro.
  • 8BitDo Controller compatibility: all 8BitDo Bluetooth Controllers and arcade stick.
  • System compatibility: Switch, Windows, macOS, Steam Deck & Raspberry Pis and more. USB Wireless Adapter 2 is compatible with Steam Deck now.
  • Support 6-axis motion on Switch and Vibration on X-input mode.
  • Supports ultimate software - customize button mapping, adjust stick & trigger sensitivity, vibration control and create macros with any button combination.

One controller per adapter

One Adapter 2 connects one controller at a time. Connecting multiple controllers requires a separate adapter for each, according to 8BitDo’s FAQ.

Some controller and Switch features will not work

8BitDo’s manual lists these unsupported features when using the adapter: trigger vibration, the controller audio jack, analog triggers, NFC scanning, the IR camera, HD rumble, the notification LED, and the player indicator. The console also cannot be woken with the adapter.

Rank #2
8Bitdo Adapter Switch Controller Adapter 2 USB Wireless for Windows & Mac
  • Controller Adapter Compatibility: The second-generation receiver compatible with 8BitDo bluetooth controllers, Xbox Series X | S, Xbox One Bluetooth controllers, PS5/PS4/PS4 Pro/PS3 controllers and Switch Pro, Switch Joy-Con, Wii U Pro, Wiimote controller. Make sure to update the receiver to the latest firmware. Switch 2 compatibility requires the Adapter to be updated to the latest firmware. (Note: Please ensure it is Bluetooth controller.)
  • System compatibility: Switch (3.0.0 and above), Switch 2 (20.1.1 and above), SteamOS Holo 3.4 and above, Windows 10 and above, macOS, Raspberry Pi, Android TV Box, Retrofreak. Friendly reminder: Make sure to update the receiver to the latest firmware. Systems and controllers not mentioned above are not compatible.
  • Bluetooth Controller Adapter: Four modes available, X-input, D-input, Mac and Switch mode. Support 6-axis motion on switch mode and vibration on X-input mode.
  • Supports ultimate software - customize button mapping, adjust stick & trigger sensitivity, vibration control and create macros with any button combination.
  • Please Note: One adapter works for one controller. If you wish to use multiple controllers at a time, you would need to use multiple adapters. Non-bluetooth controller such as 2.4g wireless controller is NOT Compatible. Systems and controllers not mentioned above are not compatible. If you have any questions about our products we're always available to provide assistance.

Button prompts may not match

Xbox and Nintendo face-button layouts are opposite, so an on-screen Switch prompt may show a different letter from the physical Xbox button you need to press. This is a layout difference, not necessarily a pairing problem.

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8Bitdo USB Wireless Adapter 2 for Switch, Windows, Mac & Raspberry Pi
  • System compatibility: Switch/Switch 2, Windows, macOS, Steam Deck & Raspberry Pis. Make sure to update the receiver to the latest firmware. Switch 2 compatibility requires the Adapter to be updated to the latest firmware. Systems and controllers not mentioned above are not compatible.
  • Controller Compatibility: The 8Bitdo Adapter 2 USB Wireless with OTG Cable offers excellent compatibility with Xbox Series X|S Controller, Xbox One Bluetooth Controller, PS5/PS4/PS3 Controller, Switch Pro, Wii Mote, Wii U Pro Controllers. And All 8BitDo Bluetooth Controllers and arcade stick.(Note: Please ensure it is Bluetooth controller.)
  • Lag-Free Wireless Bluetooth Connection: The 8Bitdo Adapter 2 utilizes advanced Bluetooth technology to provide a stable and lag-free connection between your controller and gaming device. Support 6-axis motion on Switch and Vibration on X-input mode.
  • Portable and Convenient: Plug and Play. It easily fits in your pocket or gaming accessory bag, allowing you to take it anywhere you go. Simply plug it into the USB port of your gaming device and follow the straightforward pairing process.
  • OTG Cable Included: The 8Bitdo Adapter 2 comes with an OTG cable, further enhancing its versatility, expanding your gaming options and providing flexibility for on-the-go gaming sessions. An OTG cable enables you to use the adapter to connect your Switch and enjoy the handheld mode directly.
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GuliKit Hyperlink 2 Fast Wireless Adapter for Xbox Series X|S Controller
  • ULTRA FAST ADAPTER WITH LOWER DELAY:Featuring HyperLink 2 technology, this adapter achieves 2.95ms ultra-low latency, reduces input delay by up to 50%, delivering faster response and smoother gameplay for supported controllers in fast-paced game.
  • CONTROLLER COMPATIBILITY: Compatible with Xbox Series controllers, Xbox Elite Series 2 controllers, Xbox One Bluetooth controllers, PS5 Dual Sense & Dual Sense Edge controllers, PS4 Dual Shock controllers, Switch Pro Controller, and GuliKit. Compatibility Note: 1.For xbox controller, update its firmware before use. 2.Only one controller can be connected at a time.3.Not compatible with Xbox One controllers released between 2013–2015 or non-Bluetooth Xbox Elite controllers & Xbox 360. 4. For Xbox headphones are not supported. 5.When using GuliKit controllers, switch to PC Xinput mode or Switch mode before connecting.
  • MULTI-PLATFORM SUPPORT: Works with Windows 7+, Switch / Switch 2, Android 9.0+, and SteamOS 3.4+ devices such as Steam Deck, AYANEO handhelds, ROG Ally and Ally X. Compatibility Note: 1.Enable “Wired Pro Controller Connection” in Switch 1/2 settings. 2.An OTG cable or adapter is required when connecting to Switch Lite/Switch 1/2,Steam Deck/AYANEO handhelds/ROG Ally&Ally X. 3.Not compatible with PS/Xbox consoles.
  • INSTANT PLUG & PLAY – Works instantly with supported controllers and platforms. Just plug in and start gaming—no drivers, software, or complicated setup required. Enjoy faster response and smoother gameplay.
  • MOTION CONTROL & VIBRATION ON SWITCH – Use PS4 or PS5 controllers on Switch 1 and Switch 2 with motion control and vibration support, delivering a more immersive and responsive gameplay experience. Note: Not supported on PC or Switch Lite.
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8BitDo USB Wireless Adapter 2 Converter Dongle for Switch 2/Switch LCD/OLED
  • Bluetooth Controller Adapter: Accessories for Switch 2, Switch/Switch OLED - Compatible with PS5 Controller, PS4 Controller, PS3 Controller, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Wii Mote, Wii U Pro wirelessly on Switch / Switch OLED. Please upgrade the firmware to the latest version. Note: Supports Xbox One Controller / Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 with Bluetooth only.
  • Wide System Support: Compatible with 8Bitdo Controllers, Switch Pro, Switch controller for Joycons, PS5, PS4, PS3, Wii Mote, Wii U Pro, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One Bluetooth controller on Switch, Switch 2, Windows, Steam Deck, Raspberry Pi, Android TV Box and Retrofreak, for versatile gaming across multiple platforms.
  • Less Lag Performance: Wireless Bluetooth connection provides reduced lag for responsive gameplay. It's one controller per 8Bitdo USB adapter. Vibration is supported on Switch and X-input mode. An OTG cable enables you to use the adapter to connect your Switch and enjoy the handheld mode directly.
  • Plug and Play Functionality: Simply connect the controller adapter with your Wireless Controller to enable the same wireless experience you are used to on all the best platforms.
  • Complete Package: Package includes an OTG cable, so you can use the converter to connect your Switch Console via an OTG cable and then enjoy the Undocked Mode directly.
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Check these things if pairing fails

  • Verify that an Xbox One controller has Bluetooth; 8BitDo does not claim support for every Xbox One model.
  • Make sure Pro Controller Wired Communication is enabled in the Switch Lite’s System Settings > Controller and Sensors.
  • Confirm the adapter is connected through a USB-C male to USB-A female OTG cable for handheld use.
  • Repeat the initial pairing sequence: put the adapter in pairing mode, then hold the controller’s pairing button for three seconds.
  • Check the current 8BitDo compatibility information for your exact controller and adapter. Revisions and firmware can affect compatibility.

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.

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