Unlock Cross-Platform Control: Use PS5 or Xbox Controllers on Nintendo Switch 2

Tired of Joy-Con drift ruining your Tears of the Kingdom session? Wish your Nintendo Switch 2 worked with your favorite PS5 DualSense or Xbox Series X controller? You’re not alone. While Nintendo’s ecosystem traditionally resists third-party hardware, a breakthrough solution lets you connect PS5 or Xbox controllers to Switch 2 seamlessly. We tested the method—here’s how it works.

Can You Use Non-Nintendo Controllers on Switch 2?

Officially? No. Unofficially? Absolutely. According to BGR’s 2024 hardware tests, the $20 8BitDo Wireless USB Adapter 2 bridges this gap. This thumb-sized dongle enables:

• PS3/PS4/PS5 and Xbox Series X|S/One controller support
• Compatibility with Wii U Pro controllers and 8BitDo’s own peripherals
• Cross-platform functionality (PC, Mac, SteamOS)

But note limitations:

“PS5 touchpad, audio jack, and wake functions won’t work. Xbox controllers face similar feature restrictions,” confirms Yasin Hasan, hardware tester at BGR. Alternatives like Mayflash’s Magic NS adapter offer comparable results.

How to Connect Your Controller in 4 Steps

Requirements:

• Updated Switch 2 OS (v3.0.0+)
• 8BitDo adapter
• Enabled “Pro Controller Wired Communication” (Settings > Controllers)

Connection Process:

1. Insert the adapter into the Switch 2 dock.
2. Press the pairing button on the adapter until its LED blinks rapidly.
3. Activate pairing mode on your controller:
   • PS5: Hold Create + PS buttons for 3 seconds
   • Xbox: Press pairing button for 3 seconds
4. Wait for the adapter’s LED to solidify, indicating success.

For advanced customization like button remapping, use 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software. As Matthieu Tuffet, gaming peripheral developer, notes: “This workaround transforms Switch 2 into a truly flexible platform—ideal for Xbox Game Pass titles now arriving on Nintendo.

Pro Tip: Update the adapter’s firmware via 8BitDo’s website for optimal Switch 2 performance.

Must Know

Q: Does this void my Switch 2 warranty?
A: No. The adapter uses standard USB protocols. Nintendo’s warranty policy (2024) covers hardware defects regardless of third-party accessories, but always verify retailer terms.

Q: Can I use wireless headsets via these controllers?
A: Unfortunately not. Audio jacks and Bluetooth audio relay remain incompatible per current firmware limitations.

Q: Will rumble/vibration features work?
A: Yes. Both Xbox and PS5 controllers retain basic haptic feedback during gameplay.

Q: Does it support motion controls?
A: Partially. Tilt functionality works in Splatoon 3, but advanced gyro aiming (e.g., Zelda bow mechanics) may lack precision.

Q: Are input delays noticeable?
A: BGR’s latency tests show <10ms lag—identical to official Pro Controllers in most scenarios.

Q: Can four third-party controllers connect simultaneously?
A: Yes, using multiple adapters. Each dongle supports one controller.

Sources: BGR (2024), 8BitDo Firmware Notes v2.1, Nintendo Hardware Warranty Policy