How to Attach/Detach the Joy-Con Controllers from Nintendo Switch

Instructions for attaching and detaching the Joy-Con controllers from the Nintendo Switch console.

Additional Information:

The Joy-Con controllers can be paired to one console at a time. If you wish to use the Joy-Con controllers on another console, they will need to be paired to that console.

Complete these steps:

How to attach the Joy-Con to the console:
  1. Make sure the Joy-Con are correctly oriented.

    First, ensure the screen is facing you. To ensure the right and left Joy-Con controllers are positioned properly with relation to the console, align the - Button on the left Joy-Con with the top-left corner of console, and align the + Button on the right Joy-Con with the top-right corner of the console.
    How to Attach/Detach the Joy-Con Controllers from Nintendo Switch Plus Minus

  2. Attach the Joy-Con to the Nintendo Switch console.

    Use the rail on the side of the console, and slide the Joy-Con from top to bottom, until you hear a click.
    How to Attach/Detach the Joy-Con Controllers from Nintendo Switch Attach Joy-Con

    • Once the Joy-Con controllers are attached to the system, they are registered, and can now be detached and used.


How to detach the Joy-Con from the console:

Press the release button at the back of each Joy-Con while sliding it up from bottom to top.

Important:

After detaching the Joy-Con controllers from the console, be sure to attach the Joy-Con straps before starting a game or software.

How to Attach/Detach the Joy-Con Controllers from Nintendo Switch Detach Button
How to Attach/Detach the Joy-Con Controllers from Nintendo Switch Detach Slide
  • The Joy-Con pairing information is not deleted when the Joy-Con controllers are detached. You can now use them as wireless controllers.