If you enjoy playing on your mobile device, you'll surely find that after a while of looking to improve your experience, the need for a physical controller arises. Although screens are getting bigger and hardware is more powerful and optimized, the gaming experience with touch controls can fall short, especially in titles with demanding controls or where precision is key to winning.
Playing with physical controllers allows you to execute much more precise movements, take advantage of advanced button combinations and enjoy better ergonomics., which can make a difference in competitive matches or games with complex controls. Fortunately, it is possible to take advantage of your Nintendo Switch's controllers, and especially its pro controller and the Joy-Con, to transform your Android phone into a real portable console and get the most out of the best titles on the Play Store, without spending on extra accessories.
Advantages of using Nintendo Switch controllers on Android
Many users are not aware that Nintendo Switch controllers can be easily used on Android devices, thanks to Bluetooth connectivity. This opens the door to a much more complete and professional gaming experience, ideal for racing games, shooters, platformers, or emulation titles, where physical response and analog controls make all the difference compared to a touchscreen. The main advantages include:
- Greater comfort: Reduces hand fatigue, especially during long gaming sessions.
- Greater precision: Crucial for action and shooter titles where every move matters.
- Compatibility: No apps or complicated tricks required. The Android system itself recognizes the controllers via Bluetooth.
- Versatility: You can use both the pro controller as Joy-Con from your Switch individually or jointly.
- Economic savings: You can take advantage of accessories you already have, without buying additional Bluetooth controllers.
In addition, tests show that most games recognize the primary button and analog stick mapping, providing a more immersive and professional gaming experience.
Which Nintendo Switch controller models can you use on Android?
The Nintendo Switch stands out for offering different types of controllers, all of them compatible in some way with Android:
- Pro Controller: The most comfortable and solid controller, ideal for long gaming sessions. Its ergonomics and button layout make it perfect for almost any game.
- Joy-Con (left and right)Small, lightweight, and highly versatile. They can be connected individually for casual gaming or separately if two people want to play on the same phone.
- Compatible third-party gamepadsSome third-party manufacturers offer Nintendo Switch-compatible controllers that also work on Android. The steps for connecting them are typically identical to the official Pro Controller.
How to connect the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller to your Android phone?
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is one of the most comfortable wireless controllers for mobile gaming, and its Bluetooth connectivity makes it easy to pair with most recent Android smartphones. Below, we'll explain how to use it. the exact steps to sync it:
- Activate Bluetooth on your mobile phone: Go to the menu Settings, Select Bluetooth and make sure it is turned on. On some phones, the option is located in Settings> Connections> Bluetooth.
- Prepare the Pro Controller: Locate the small SYNC button on the top of the controller, near the USB-C port. Hold this button down for several seconds until you see the green LEDs begin blinking in sequence.
- Find the remote on your phone: On your phone's Bluetooth screen, select "Search for devices" or "Pair new device." An option called "Pair new device" should appear. Pro Controller in the list of available devices.
- Pair both devices: Tap "Pro Controller" and accept the pairing when prompted. In just a few seconds, your controller will be connected and ready to use in any compatible game.
After pairing the controller, you can start enjoying your favorite games with physical controls. In titles like Asphalt, Fortnite, Genshin Impact, and Minecraft, the change in gameplay is noticeable from the very first moment. You can find more details on how to connect the Switch Pro Controller to Android in our guide.
How to connect Nintendo Switch Joy-Con to Android?
If you have the Joy-Con of your Nintendo SwitchYou can also use them on your Android phone. The best part is that you can use them together or separately, which is useful for multiplayer games on your phone. Follow these steps:
- Disassemble or separate the Joy-Con that you want to link to the console body.
- Press the SYNC button (a small circular button located between the SL and SR buttons on the side of the Joy-Con) for several seconds until you see a green light moving from left to right, indicating that it is in pairing mode.
- Go to your mobile's Bluetooth settings, search for available devices and select “Joy-Con (L)” or “Joy-Con (R)” as appropriate.
- Confirm the connection and wait a few seconds for your phone to complete pairing.
Each Joy-Con is recognized as an independent controllerIf you want to use them together as a single gamepad, you'll need additional apps or software on your PC, but they work separately on Android. For a more advanced experience, you can also explore how to connect the Switch Pro Controller to Android in our tutorial.
This option is ideal for casual games, sports titles, or emulation where you want to play with friends while sharing the same phone. And remember: The process does not affect the compatibility or warranty of your controllers at all..
Tips to optimize the experience and solve problems
While the process is simple, there are a few things you can do to further improve your gaming experience and help you avoid issues:
- Check the battery of the controllers before pairing them, since if they are almost discharged they can disconnect.
- Keep your mobile firmware updated and the Android system, as new versions usually improve compatibility with Bluetooth controllers.
- Most games automatically recognize the controls, but in some titles it is necessary to manually configure the button mapping in the game settings menu.
- If you experience lag or delay, turn off other nearby Bluetooth devices or limit the distance between the controller and your phone.
- To wake up a switched off controller, just press any button. If it doesn't reconnect, repeat the pairing process.
- If you want to reconnect the controller to the Switch, you just have to re-pair it from the console's controller menu. The process is reversible and safe for your accessories.
Which games and apps are compatible with Nintendo Switch controllers?
Android game compatibility with Bluetooth controllers is extensive, especially for AAA titles and mainstream titles. Nintendo Switch controllers work perfectly with:
- Titles of carreers like Asphalt 9, Mario Kart Tour or Real Racing 3.
- Popular shooters like Fortnite, Call of Duty Mobile, or PUBG Mobile (although some require additional tweaking).
- Sets platforms and action like Dead Cells, Stardew Valley, Castlevania or Sonic the Hedgehog.
- Emulation titles (Dolphin, RetroArch, My Boy!) where a physical controller multiplies the gameplay.
- Game streaming apps like Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) or Steam Link recognize the Pro Controller.
Some games may require manual mapping if they don't detect the default button configuration. There are free apps like Game Controller KeyMapper o Octopus that allow you to customize the assignment of each button to achieve maximum compatibility.
Peculiarities, limitations and frequently asked questions
- Are there any differences between using Switch controllers and other Bluetooth controllers? Yes. The Pro Controller and Joy-Con work similarly to any standard Bluetooth controller, but may not be recognized in all games, especially older games or those without controller support.
- Can I connect multiple controllers at once? Android allows you to connect multiple Bluetooth devices, although the experience will depend on the power of your phone and the specific game.
- Are there any advanced features that are not recognized? Some features, such as HD rumble, gyroscope, and motion sensors, may not be available depending on the game and phone model. These features are primarily used for buttons and analog sticks.
- Does this affect the Switch or the warranty? No. Bluetooth pairing is temporary and reversible. You'll just need to re-sync the controller to your console when you want to use it there again.
- Is it possible to use the controller with iOS? Starting with recent versions of iOS, it's also possible to pair Nintendo Switch controllers with iPhone or iPad, although compatibility may differ slightly from Android.
Connecting the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller or Joy-Con to an Android phone is a quick and accessible process., which allows you to transform any compatible game into a much more professional and satisfying experience. Whether you're looking to improve your performance in demanding titles, enjoy co-op games with friends, or simply avoid the frustration of touch controls, this option is a huge help and allows you to take advantage of the accessories you already have at home. Just remember to treat your controllers with care and avoid throwing them on the floor in the event of defeat, no matter how much the game resists. Now, get ready to take your mobile gaming to the next level!