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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Yes. Joy-Con controllers charge while attached to an original Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch – OLED Model during handheld play, provided the console is connected to its AC adapter and is powered on or in Sleep Mode.
How Joy-Con charging works in handheld mode
Attach the Joy-Con to the console and connect the console to its AC adapter. Nintendo says the console must be connected to the adapter and either powered on or in Sleep Mode for attached Joy-Con to charge. You can continue playing in handheld mode while they charge. Nintendo’s charging instructions and its Joy-Con FAQ cover these conditions.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Nintendo Neon Purple/Neon Orange Joy-Con (L-R) - Switch | $87.95 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Nintendo Joy-Con (L/R) - Neon Red/Neon Blue (Renewed) | $60.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Nintendo Blue/Neon Yellow Joy-Con (L-R) - Switch | $95.77 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Nintendo Joy-Con (L)/(R) - Pastel Purple/Pastel Green | $87.00 | Buy on Amazon |
Do not assume attached controllers will charge if the console is unplugged or fully powered off; those states do not meet Nintendo’s stated charging conditions.
Charging options by setup
| Setup | How it charges | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Original Switch or Switch – OLED Model, Joy-Con attached | Connect the console to its AC adapter; the console must be on or in Sleep Mode. | Supports charging while playing handheld. |
| Joy-Con detached from the console | Use a Joy-Con Charging Grip or compatible Joy-Con Charging Stand. | The standard Joy-Con Grip included with a Switch bundle does not charge controllers. |
| Switch Lite | Use a compatible Joy-Con Charging Grip or Charging Stand. | Joy-Con do not attach to Switch Lite. |
Nintendo estimates that original Joy-Con take approximately 3.5 hours to charge fully. This is Nintendo’s estimate, not an independent test result. The charging guide lists the available methods.
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- Two Joy Con can be used independently in each hand, or together as 1 game controller when attached to the Joy Con grip
- They can also attach to the main console for use in handheld mode, or be shared with friends to enjoy two player action in supported games
- Each Joy Con has a full set of buttons and can act as a standalone controller, and each includes an accelerometer and gyro sensor, making independent left and right motion control possible
Does the Joy-Con Grip charge controllers?
Not every grip is a charger. The standard Joy-Con Grip, model HAC-011, combines two Joy-Con into a controller shape but does not charge them. The separately sold Joy-Con Charging Grip, model HAC-012, does charge them when connected to the Switch dock or directly to the Switch AC adapter. Nintendo also lists a Joy-Con Charging Stand as an alternative for detached controllers. Check the model number and compatibility before buying an accessory. Nintendo’s support page on grip charging explains the distinction.
How to check whether Joy-Con are charging
- Open the HOME Menu and select Controllers.
- Check the Joy-Con battery display for the charging indicator.
- If the indicator does not appear while the controllers are attached, confirm that the console is connected to its AC adapter and is powered on or in Sleep Mode.
Nintendo estimates up to 20 hours of Joy-Con battery use, with actual duration varying by software and use; this is a Nintendo-published estimate, not an independent measurement. See the Joy-Con FAQ.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to do if attached Joy-Con will not charge
- Check that the console is connected to a working AC adapter and is on or in Sleep Mode.
- Check the charging indicator on the Controllers screen.
- Try charging the Joy-Con with a Charging Grip. Nintendo’s troubleshooting guidance also recommends checking the adapter and testing a charging grip.
- If the Joy-Con charge through the Charging Grip but not while attached to the console, Nintendo says the console may need service. The symptom alone does not identify a specific fault.
See Nintendo’s Joy-Con power troubleshooting for its guidance.
Quick Recap
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- Expand your collection with these colorful pastel Joy-Con controllers.
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- Two Joy Con can be used independently in each hand, or together as 1 game controller when attached to the Joy Con grip
- They can also attach to the main console for use in handheld mode, or be shared with friends to enjoy 2 player action in supported games
- Each Joy Con has a full set of buttons and can act as a standalone controller, and each includes an accelerometer and gyro sensor, making independent left and right motion control possible
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.
