How to use switch pro controller on PC effectively?

How to use switch pro controller on PC effectively?
I’ve recently purchased a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller and I’ve heard that it can be used with a PC for gaming. However, I’m not quite sure about the steps involved in getting it to work properly on my Windows machine. I find the controller incredibly comfortable, and I’d love to use it for my PC games as well. I am curious about any software or drivers that I might need to install, and I’m also wondering about the possible connection methods, whether it’s wired or wireless. Furthermore, I want to ensure that all the buttons and joysticks function correctly and that there’s minimal input lag. Can someone explain how to use the Switch Pro Controller on a PC and what I should expect during the setup process?
6 Answers

When I wanted to use my Switch Pro Controller on my PC, here’s the process that helped me:
- Bluetooth Pairing:
- Hold the sync button at the top of the controller until the indicator starts flashing.
- On your PC, go to Settings > Devices > Add Bluetooth device.
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Choose ‘Pro Controller’ when it appears.
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USB Connection:
- Simply connect the USB-C cable from the controller to your PC.
- Windows will handle the necessary driver installation automatically.
In both cases, I had to ensure the controller was detected in my games, modifying input settings when necessary.

I’ve found connecting my Nintendo Switch Pro Controller to a PC to be bit tricky initially. However, here’s a simple method that worked:
- Steam Method:
- Open Steam > Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings.
- Connect your Switch Pro Controller via Bluetooth by pressing the sync button on top. Look for ‘Pro Controller’ on your PC’s Bluetooth settings.
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Complete the pairing by selecting the controller when it appears.
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Wired Connection:
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Use a USB-C to USB-A cable and plug the controller directly into the PC.
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Third-Party Software:
- If you don’t want to use Steam, download and install a program like ‘BetterJoy’ for seamless connectivity.
These steps should set up the controller effectively for any non-Steam games too.

Using the Switch Pro Controller on a PC has several methods. Here’s a quick guide based on my experience:
- Wired Connection:
- Use a USB-C cable to connect the controller to your PC.
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Windows should detect it automatically and install the necessary drivers.
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Bluetooth Connection:
- Hold the sync button on the top of the controller until the LEDs start flashing.
- On your PC, go to Settings > Devices > Add Bluetooth device.
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Select the Pro Controller from the list of available devices.
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Steam Big Picture Mode:
- This step is vital for those who primarily use Steam for gaming. In Steam, go to Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings and check the ‘Switch Pro Configuration Support.’ This ensures that Steam recognizes the controller and allows customization.
Using these steps, I was able to enjoy a seamless gaming experience on my PC.

Using the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller on a PC can be a straightforward process, especially with the right steps and tools. Here’s what I did to connect mine:
- Install Steam: If you haven’t already, download and install Steam. It has built-in support for the Switch Pro Controller.
- Connect the Controller via USB: Use a USB-C cable to connect the controller to your PC. Windows should automatically recognize it and install any necessary drivers.
- Enable Configuration Support: Open Steam and go to Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings. Check the box for ‘Switch Pro Configuration Support’.
- Calibration: To ensure all buttons work correctly, calibrate the joystick through the Steam settings.
This method worked perfectly for me, and I had no issues with input lag.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown for connecting a Switch Pro Controller to a PC, which worked well for me:
- USB Connection: Simply plug in your controller using a USB-C cable. Windows should automatically detect and configure the necessary drivers.
- Bluetooth Method:
- Press the small sync button at the top of the controller until the indicator lights begin flashing.
- Open your PC’s Bluetooth settings and enable Bluetooth.
- Select ‘Add Bluetooth or other device’ and choose ‘Bluetooth.’
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When your ‘Pro Controller’ appears, select it. Follow any additional instructions that appear to complete the pairing process.
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Steam Setup:
- Make sure Steam is installed and running. Go to Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings; then, check ‘Switch Pro Configuration Support.’
- You can tweak the layout and calibration from here as needed.
With these methods, I didn’t experience any issues with connectivity or lag. The Steam settings allow customization if any minor adjustments are needed.

To use the Switch Pro Controller on PC, follow these steps:
- USB Method:
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Connect the controller to the PC using a USB-C to USB-A cable. Windows should automatically install the drivers.
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Bluetooth Method:
- Enable Bluetooth on your PC.
- Press the sync button on top of the controller until the lights flash.
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Add the Pro Controller via Bluetooth settings on your PC.
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Steam Integration:
- Open Steam > View > Big Picture Mode.
- Go to Settings > Controller Settings and check ‘Nintendo Switch Configuration Support.’
This should configure the controller for use in Steam games and through the Steam launcher.