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USB Ports Not Working on the Nintendo Switch Dock

Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch - OLED Model

The information in this article can help you when:

  • While using the Nintendo Switch console in TV mode, the application can be displayed correctly on the TV screen, but the USB ports on the dock will not register or charge a compatible device.
  • Compatible devices such as the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller or the Joy-Con Charging Grip may charge when connected directly with the AC adapter but are not charging while plugged into a USB port on the dock.
Note
  • The Nintendo Switch console does not need to be docked in order for a compatible device to be charged through the dock.
  • The Nintendo Switch dock is compatible with the following devices:
    • Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
    • Joy-Con Charging Grip
    • Nintendo Switch LAN Adapter
    • GameCube Controller Adapter

What to do

  1. Ensure your console has the latest system update.
  2. If you are using a dock with a built-in LAN port, update the dock to the latest firmware.
  1. Does the image display correctly on the TV screen while the console is used in TV mode?
  2. Are you trying to charge a Pro Controller/use the Joy-Con Charging Grip or connect a LAN adapter?

    For assistance with the image not displaying correctly on the TV screen, please see our information on Blank Screen or No Image Displayed on the TV.

    1. Verify that the compatible accessory can be charged directly or works directly with the Nintendo Switch AC adapter (model No. HAC-002).
      Important
      Nintendo Switch Pro Controller connected to the Nintendo Switch AC Adapter that is connected to a wall outlet
    2. Disconnect all cables from the dock and leave the Nintendo Switch AC adapter disconnected from both ends for at least 30 seconds, then plug it into the dock and to a wall outlet.
    3. Verify you are using the USB charging cable (model No. HAC-010) included with the Pro Controller or the Charging Grip, and check for any damage (kinks, nicks, cuts, frayed cables, etc.).
      • If the included USB cable is damaged, replacing it with the original one (HAC-010) will likely resolve the issue.
    4. Connect the USB charging cable to the Pro Controller or to the Charging Grip, and to a USB port on the dock, ensuring that the plug is inserted all the way.
      Important
      • While the Pro Controller is charging or the Joy-Con are charging through the Charging Grip, the recharge LED on these accessories will power on.
      • Once the battery on the controller is fully charged, the recharge LED on Pro Controller or on the Charging Grip will shut off.
      Nintendo Switch Pro Controller connected via USB cable to the Nintendo Switch Dock which is connected to an AC Adapter plugged into a wall outlet
      Joy-Con Grip with attached Joy-Con controllers connected to a Nintendo Switch dock via a USB cable
    Did the recharge LED on the Pro Controller or Charging Grip power on?

    Ensure the LAN adapter is installed correctly.

    • If an error message or error code is displayed, search for it in the knowledge base and follow the steps therein.

    If you require further assistance, please contact us for support.

  4. Continue using the system and monitor the situation.

    Check the battery charge on the Pro Controller or Joy-Con by selecting ControllersControlesManettesControles from the HOME Menu.

    • If the battery charge on the controller(s) is approximately full, then it is normal for the battery to stop charging and the recharge LED will shut off.
    • If the battery charge is not nearly full, and the recharge LED on the Charging Grip or on the Pro Controller is not lit, try the following:
      • Use a different USB port on the dock.
      • Use a different USB charging cable.
    Did this resolve your issue?

  5. If this information resolved your issue, then you’re all set! For information about Nintendo’s products, be sure to check out nintendo.com for all the latest news.

    If the controller will charge correctly while using a different USB charging cable, then the original USB charging cable will need to be replaced.

    If the controller will charge while connected directly to the AC adapter, but not while connected to the dock, the Nintendo Switch dock will need to be serviced. For testing purposes, include the USB charging cable.

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