Connecting your Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons to a PC opens up new control options, and the process is simpler than you might think. If you’re wondering how to connect switch 2 joycons to pc, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through every method, from the basic Bluetooth pairing to using them in your favorite games.
Using Joy-Cons on a computer can be great for emulators, certain PC games, or just having a more flexible controller setup. You can use them individually or as a pair. Let’s get started with what you’ll need before you begin.
How To Connect Switch 2 Joycons To Pc
The core process for connecting your Joy-Cons involves your PC’s Bluetooth. Most modern computers have this built-in. If yours doesn’t, you’ll need a simple USB Bluetooth adapter. Ensure your Joy-Cons are charged before starting.
First, you need to put the Joy-Cons into pairing mode. This makes them visible to your computer. The steps are the same for both the left and right Joy-Con.
Step By Step Bluetooth Pairing Guide
Follow these instructions carefully to connect your Joy-Cons via Bluetooth. This is the standard method that works for Windows 10 and 11.
Entering Pairing Mode On Your Joy Cons
Locate the small, round SYNC button on the side of each Joy-Con. It’s situated between the SL and SR buttons. Press and hold this SYNC button for a few seconds.
The green LED lights on the side will start rapidly scrolling back and forth. This indicates the Joy-Con is now in discoverable mode and is ready to pair. You need to do this for each Joy-Con individually if you want to use two.
Pairing With Your Windows PC
On your Windows PC, click on the Start menu and go to Settings. Then, select “Devices” and click on “Bluetooth & other devices.” Make sure the Bluetooth toggle is switched to “On.”
Click on “Add Bluetooth or other device.” In the window that pops up, choose the first option, “Bluetooth.” Your computer will start searching. After a moment, you should see “Joy-Con (L)” and “Joy-Con (R)” appear in the list. Click on one to pair it.
Windows will confirm when the device is connected. Repeat the entire process for the second Joy-Con. They will apear as two separate devices in your Bluetooth settings list.
Using A Bluetooth Adapter For Desktops
If your desktop PC lacks built-in Bluetooth, you need an adapter. Purchase a reliable USB Bluetooth 4.0 or 5.0 adapter. Plug it into an available USB port on your computer.
Windows should automatically install the necessary drivers. Once the adapter is ready, follow the same pairing steps outlined above. The process is identical once the Bluetooth radio is active on your system.
Configuring Joy Cons For Games And Emulators
Simply pairing the Joy-Cons is only half the battle. Windows sees them as generic controllers, so many games won’t recognize them properly. To use them effectively, you often need extra software.
This software acts as a translator, making your Joy-Cons appear to games as a standard Xbox controller, which most PC games support natively. The most popular and reliable tool for this is called BetterJoy.
Installing And Setting Up Betterjoy
BetterJoy is a free, community-developed program. First, you need to download it from its official GitHub repository. Always download software from trusted sources to avoid malware.
After downloading, extract the ZIP file to a folder on your computer. Run the executable file named “BetterJoyForCemu.exe.” The program will open a small window and should automatically detect your paired Joy-Cons.
You might need to install a driver during the first-time setup. The program will prompt you if this is necessary; just follow the on-screen instructions. Once running, BetterJoy will create a virtual Xbox 360 controller that games can use.
Calibrating The Controllers For Accuracy
For the best experience, calibration is key. Open the Windows Control Panel and navigate to “Devices and Printers.” Find the virtual controller created by BetterJoy (it will likely be called “Xbox 360 Controller for Windows”).
Right-click on it and select “Game controller settings.” In the new window, select the controller and click “Properties.” Here, you can test all the buttons and analog sticks. You can also calibrate the sticks to ensure they center correctly and have full range of motion.
Profiles For Different Game Types
BetterJoy allows for different profiles. This means you can set up one profile for platformers and another for racing games. You can access these settings by right-clicking the BetterJoy icon in your system tray.
For example, you can adjust stick sensitivity or remap buttons for specific titles. Taking a few minutes to configure profiles can greatly improve your gameplay, especially if you switch between different genres frequently.
Troubleshooting Common Connection Problems
Sometimes, things don’t go smoothly. Here are solutions to the most frequent issues users encounter when trying to connect their Joy-Cons to a PC.
Joy Cons Not Appearing In Bluetooth Search
If your Joy-Cons don’t show up, first ensure they are in pairing mode (the lights are rapidly scrolling). If they are, try turning your PC’s Bluetooth off and on again.
Another common fix is to remove old Bluetooth pairings. Go to your Bluetooth settings, find any existing Joy-Con entries, and select “Remove device.” Then, try the pairing process from the begining. Also, ensure no other device like your Switch is actively connected to the Joy-Cons.
Input Lag Or Stuttering Issues
Bluetooth interference can cause lag. Keep other wireless devices like routers, phones, or wireless headphones away from your controller and Bluetooth adapter. A USB extension cable can help position a Bluetooth adapter for a clearer signal.
If you’re using BetterJoy, make sure no other controller management software is running in the background, as they can conflict. Closing these programs can often resolve stuttering.
Betterjoy Not Detecting Your Controllers
First, verify the Joy-Cons are connected in Windows Bluetooth settings. BetterJoy cannot detect them if Windows hasn’t paired them first. Restart the BetterJoy application after confirming the connection.
Sometimes, running BetterJoy as an administrator can help. Right-click the executable and select “Run as administrator.” Also, check the program’s official documentation or forums for help with specific error messages, as the community is very active.
Advanced Tips And Alternative Methods
Once you have the basics down, you can explore more advanced setups. These methods can enhance functionality or provide workarounds for specific needs.
Connecting Via USB Cable
For a completely wireless-free connection, you can use a USB cable. You will need a USB-C cable for the right Joy-Con and a specific Joy-Con charging grip or adapter for the left one, as it lacks a direct port.
Connect the cable to your PC. Windows will install drivers and recognize the Joy-Con as a generic controller. This method eliminates battery concerns and potential Bluetooth lag, but it tethers you to your computer and requires specific hardware.
Using Joy Cons With Steam
Steam has built-in controller support that can handle Joy-Cons. Open Steam and go to Settings. Select “Controller” and then “General Controller Settings.” Check the box for “Switch Pro Configuration Support.”
With this enabled, Steam can detect your Joy-Cons. You can then customize the button layout for each game through Steam’s Big Picture mode controller settings. This is a great alternative to BetterJoy if you primarily play Steam games.
Mapping Buttons For Specific Applications
For non-Steam games or other applications like emulators, you might need a dedicated key mapper. Programs like reWASD or JoyToKey allow you to assign keyboard keys or mouse clicks to your Joy-Con buttons.
This is perfect for older games that have no controller support. You can create a custom configuration where, for example, the ‘A’ button presses the spacebar. These programs are powerful but may require a purchase for full features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Connect Two Joy Cons As One Controller On PC?
Yes, but it requires software. When paired individually via Bluetooth, Windows sees them as two separate devices. Tools like BetterJoy or Steam’s controller configuration can combine them into a single virtual controller, allowing you to use them together like you would on the Nintendo Switch.
Why Won T My PC Find My Joy Con?
The most common reason is not being in pairing mode correctly. Hold the SYNC button until the lights scroll. Also, ensure your PC’s Bluetooth is on and discoverable. If another device is connected to the Joy-Con, it won’t appear. Finally, try moving the controller closer to your computer’s Bluetooth receiver.
Do Joy Cons Work On PC For All Games?
No, not natively. Most PC games are designed for Xbox or PlayStation controller layouts. To make Joy-Cons work, you need middleware software like BetterJoy to translate the inputs. With such software, compatibility becomes very high, especially for games that already support controllers.
How Do I Update My Joy Con Firmware For PC Use?
Joy-Con firmware can only be updated through a Nintendo Switch console. Connect the Joy-Cons to your Switch while it is connected to the internet. The system will automatically install any available updates. This can sometimes improve connectivity and performance when using them on other devices like a PC.
Is There A Way To Use Joy Con Motion Controls On PC?
Yes, software like BetterJoy supports motion controls. The gyroscope and accelerometer data can be mapped to mouse movements or specific controller inputs. This is particularly useful for games that support motion aiming, such as some first-person shooters or for specific emulator features in programs like Cemu or Yuzu.