PS4 DualShock Controller with Nintendo SwitchSource: iMore

The Nintendo Switch's Joy-Cons are clever little devices with their impressive haptic feedback and sweet motion controls. However, not every game you play will take advantage of these features. Considering how small the Joy-Cons are, they can get pretty uncomfortable pretty quickly. Sure, you could purchase the Pro Controller, but that's pretty expensive. If you already happen to have a PS4 controller lying around, it just makes sense to use it with your Switch instead of buying something new. Here's how to use your DualShock PS4 controller with your Nintendo Switch.

If you're more of an Xbox fan, we also have a guide for connecting your Xbox One S/X controller with your Nintendo Switch.

Products used in this guide

How to use your DualShock with your Switch

Wireless adapters only work while the Switch is connected to the Dock or with a USB-C adapter.

  1. Plug your Wireless adapter into one of the USB ports on the back.

    Using PS4 DualShock Controller with Nintendo SwitchSource: iMore

  2. On your Switch, go into the System Settings.

  3. Scroll down and select Controllers and Sensors from the menu.

    Nintendo SwitchNintendo Switch settingsSource: iMore

  4. Select Pro Controller Wired Communications to turn it on.

    Settings Nintendo SwitchNintendo Switch settingsSource: iMore

  5. With your Switch docked and awake, push the Pairing button on your wireless adapter.

    Using PS4 DualShock Controller with Nintendo SwitchSource: iMore

  6. On the PS4 DualShock Controller, hold down the PS button and Share button at the same time. The indicator light will blink white to show it's in pairing mode.

    PS4 DualShock ControllerSource: iMore

  7. Once the white blinking on the PS4 DualShock controller turns solid blue, it should be paired. If it's not, follow the steps again.

Once you have your DualShock paired with your Switch, you are ready to get down to some serious gaming. The Joy-Cons are certainly fun, but sometimes you might want a controller with a little more heft to it. If you don't want to plunk down some cash on a Nintendo Pro Controller, this is a great workaround.

Our top equipment picks

Wireless adapters

8Bitdo Wireless Bluetooth Adapter

Designed with Nintendo in mind

While many other adapters will certainly work, the 8BitDo wireless adapter is specifically designed to be used with the Switch. This makes it a great choice for pairing a DualShock with the Nintendo.

Dual Shockers

DualShock 4 Wireless Controller

Your Joy-Con replacement

The DualShock 4 is the workhorse of the PS4. It's a great controller to employ on your Switch as well. If you don't already have one, you can pick one up for a reasonable price on Amazon.

Other wireless adapter options.

If you don't want to go with the 8BitDo wireless adapter, here are some other options to consider.

Mayflash Magic-NS wireless adapter ($22 at Amazon)

This wireless adapter has a USB port on the other side so you can plug in your Xbox One or PS3 controller to pair it. Once paired, you can unplug the wired connection.

Skywin wireless controller adapter ($20 at Amazon)

This adapter has a USB port on the other side and works with wired or wireless controllers. You can switch between modes using the convenient button on the side.

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