NES Controller Does Not Respond in Handheld or Wireless Mode on Nintendo Switch
Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, Nintendo Switch - OLED Model
Information to help you when you're using your Nintendo Switch in handheld or wireless mode and:
- The buttons or +Control Pad on the NES Controller respond incorrectly or do not respond at all.
- The characters move on their own, they drift, or there is an input lag when pressing a button.
Important: The Nintendo Entertainment System™ (NES) controllers cannot be attached to Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch Lite, but can be paired and used wirelessly.
Before you start
You will need:
- Your Nintendo Switch console
- NES controllers
- An Internet connection
What to do
- Check that the console has the latest system update. If the console is already up to date, restart it by holding down the POWER Button for three seconds, select Power OptionsOpciones de apagadoOptions d'alimentationOpções de desligar, then select Restart.
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How to check for the latest system update
- Select System Settings on the HOME Menu.
- Scroll down to the bottom of the System Settings menu and select System.
- Select System Update to start the system update process.
- The system will check to see if an update is available.
For more information, see How to Perform a System Update on Nintendo Switch 2 or How to Perform a System Update on Nintendo Switch.
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How to check for the latest system update
- Check that you are using the NES – Nintendo Switch Online software.
- If you are using two NES Controllers, only Player One can navigate the Game Selection menu.
- Check that you have downloaded and installed any available software updates for NES – Nintendo Switch Online prior to starting a game from that library.
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How to update game software
- Ensure the console is connected to the Internet.
- From the HOME Menu, select (but do not start) the icon for the software you wish to update.
- Press the + Button or – Button on your controller, then select Software Update followed by Via the Internet.
For more details, see How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch 2 or How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch.
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How to update game software
Situation not resolved
Attach the NES controllers to the console and test the buttons.
Keep in mind the functionality for each button from the following diagram:
