How to Connect Switch to PC[2023 Guide]

Nintendo Switch is a very adaptable gaming system that you can use to play comfortably on a large screen while also taking it with you everywhere you go (except the model Switch Lite, which is a portable-only console).

But that’s not all; in fact, there are a number of incredibly intriguing procedures that can be performed by connecting the Switch to the PC, which I’ll go into detail about now. 

For example, you will learn in the following chapters how to connect Switch to PC using a straightforward USB-C cable (like the one that comes with the console) and how to transfer videos and images from the console to the computer (I suggest you do this periodically to keep a copy of memorable game moments even on PC and be able to see, edit or share them with your friends easily).

As previously said, I’ll also demonstrate a quick “trick” for playing Switch on a computer: This technique will enable you to utilize the PC monitor without having to move the Nintendo Switch dock each time if you dislike the little console screen and the dock is linked to a TV that is already “engaged.”

Last but not least, if you enjoy PC video games but prefer using the Switch controllers, you can also connect the Joy-Con or Pro Controller of the Switch to the PC and use them to play. To discover more about each of these subjects, keep reading.

How to Connect Switch to PC

Let’s get to the action now that you have a better understanding of the extra features a Nintendo Switch linked to a PC can offer.

First, be aware that there are two types of cables you can use to connect a switch to a computer. As you are well aware, the console only has one USB-C connector, however, your PC may have two USB-A ports that can be used in place of the USB-C port. You can therefore use a cable with a USB-C connector on both ends if your PC has a USB-C port.

Use a cable with a USB-C connector on one end and a USB-A connector on the other if your PC only supports USB-A ports.

Connect the USB-C cable’s other end to the Nintendo Switch’s USB-C port once you have determined which cable is best for you and have it. All that’s left to do is insert the cable’s other end into a USB-A or USB-C port on your computer. You’ve now successfully linked your Nintendo Switch to your PC and can carry out the numerous tasks I’ll be describing in more detail.

• Recharge

Possibility of Switch PC recharging It may be quite practical. It is sufficient to switch on the PC and connect the console; further action is not necessary. The Switch’s display will have a reload icon visible in the top left corner. But first, a technical explanation: the console requires a minimum “input” voltage of 5V (volts) and a minimum “input” current of 1.5A in order to recharge itself (ampere).

These specifications are often met by all current desktop and laptop PCs, and some PCs even have USB-A / USB-C connections that are just for charging external devices. I’ll give you a suggestion to help you understand what I’m talking about: Pay close attention to the area around your computer’s USB ports to check if there are any symbols there that resemble a small lightning bolt or a single battery.

If you discover it, you can use that USB port to connect the Switch to your PC and be sure that the console will receive precisely the necessary amount of electricity to charge. Another piece of advice I can provide you is that if your computer has a blue USB port, that signifies it is a USB 3.0 or 3.1 port and is therefore compatible with charging! 

Do not be disappointed if you cannot discover a charging icon or if there are no blue USB ports. Instead, connect the Switch to the PC and check to see whether the charging icon displays in the upper left corner of the screen.

Unfortunately, the PC does not match the requirements to charge the console; but, I have other tricks up my sleeve for you; you may read this article of mine to find out how else to charge Nintendo Switch).

• File exchange

Let’s now discuss file sharing between PC and Switch. Since I assume you don’t want to lose the gaming screenshots and videos you took on the console during the toughest and most memorable difficulties, I can say with certainty that you will enjoy this function. Additionally, photographs and videos may eventually use a significant amount of space on the Switch memory. By moving this material to the PC, you can avoid having to “sacrifice” screenshots or movies in order to install new games.

Using a USB-C or USB-A cable, connect the Switch to the PC as instructed in the previous chapter (the computer must be switched on, of course). Tap System settings (the circular gear icon) on the Switch home screen, then slide your finger up to Manage dati > Manage image captures and videos.

Scroll down and tap the item labeled “Copy to PC through USB connection” on the newly displayed screen. A pop-up confirming the connection will show up on the Switch display. Please be aware that the pop-up will have a button that, when touched, will enable you to halt data transfer between the Switch and PC.

Right-click the flag-shaped button labeled “Home” on your computer’s desktop and choose the option “File Explorer” from the context menu that appears. Select What PC from the left column of the newly opened window.

You can see the Nintendo Switch icon in the window’s center if you look there (as if it were a USB storage device). By double-clicking it, you can enter it, browse the contents of the console, and copy them to your PC using a straightforward copy-and-paste operation.

Grab the Switch and hit the Disconnect button in the pop-up window to unplug it from the PC. The USB cable should then be unplugged from both ends.

• Playing games

Do you want to use your PC to play Switch games? It is possible, but not easily or as effectively as you might hope.

Let’s assume that Nintendo Switch does not officially support connecting to a PC to play games, but there are a couple of “tricks” you may use that are both only applicable to the regular Nintendo Switch, which is the model with a Nintendo Switch base. and an HDMI video output that is compatible with TVs.

The easiest step is to connect the Switch to the monitor with a straightforward HDMI connection provided you have a desktop PC and the monitor you use has an available HDMI input. On the Nintendo system, you can play in the same way that you do on TV.

I should remind out that there are various aftermarket HDMI adapters that let you connect Switch to monitors and TVs without the official base if you don’t want to constantly attach and detach the official base from the TV. These items are unauthorized, so they might not function after Switch firmware updates, but they are typically pretty dependable. Additionally, they are quite affordable, so the game might still be worth the price of admission. You get to make the choice.

Alternatively, you may think about buying an external capture card and connecting it to the PC and the Switch if you want to play Switch on your PC while being able to see the game screens within the operating system you use (Windows or macOS, for example).

External capture cards are relatively easy to utilize, but they inevitably introduce a lag (i.e. delay) in the replication of on-screen images, which could be highly crippling in competitive games. Additionally, not all capture cards work with every version of Windows and macOS, therefore I advise you to thoroughly check compatibility and review customer reviews before making any purchases.

It’s quite easy for these devices to function as intended. The capture card just has to be connected to one USB port on the PC and an HDMI cable adapter or the OEM Switch base. Later on, you can begin recording videos using programs like OBS studio, which I discussed in this particular tutorial.

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Can a Switch Be Connected to a Computer?

The Nintendo Switch may be connected to a PC, however, doing so necessitates an additional capture card. You can use streaming software to broadcast your games live online or record them for later viewing after the Switch is linked to the capture card. Even though connecting a Switch to a PC is a very simple operation, some additional gear is needed.

You’ll also want a USB-C cable, an external capture card, and streaming software in addition to the Switch and a PC.

Once you have everything you need, just use the USB-C cable to link the Switch to the capture card. Then start recording or broadcasting your gameplay using your streaming software.

Remember that although a Switch can be connected to a PC, doing so is probably going to result in lower-quality gameplay than using the console alone. This is because streaming and recording were not priorities when the Switch was being developed. As a result, Nintendo doesn’t offer any applications or apps that directly support this capability.

Can I Use HDMI to Connect My Switch to My Computer?

Yes, you can use the HDMI cable included with the console to connect your Nintendo Switch to a TV or display. Although you can also utilize USB Type-C to HDMI cables and adapters from third parties, we advise using the original adapter for the best results.

Make sure your Switch is in dock mode first before doing anything else. The Joy-Con controllers need to be slipped into the grip accessory, then the entire system needs to be placed into the Switch dock. Your Switch will instantly enter TV mode and start sending video and audio to your connected display as soon as it is docked.

You should see the Switch home screen on your TV or monitor if everything is functioning properly. You can start any installed games or applications on your console from here. Remember that some apps, such as Netflix, might need a working internet connection in order to function effectively.

There are a few things you may try if you’re having problems getting your Switch to generate video or audio. To begin with, ensure that all of the connections between your Switch and the TV or display are solid. Try rebooting both devices next (Switch and TV or display).

Without HDMI, How Do I Connect a Nintendo Switch to My Computer?

The portability of the Nintendo Switch is one of its best qualities. You may attach it to your TV at home to enjoy console-caliber gaming in addition to taking it with you wherever you go. What happens, though, if your TV lacks an HDMI input?

Has the Switch been discontinued?

Yes, it is the answer. The Switch can be connected to a TV without HDMI in a few different ways.

Utilizing a capture card is the first and most often used technique. You can live stream or record your games by connecting your Switch (or any other HDMI device) to your computer using a capture card. This is perfect for those who want to record special moments or share their gameplay online.

There are still some choices open to you if you don’t want to use a capture card. The digital signal from the Switch can be transformed with an adaptor into an analog signal that can be shown on a TV without HDMI inputs. These adapters are less prevalent than they once were, but if you seek hard enough, you can still find them.

Finally, you can always directly connect your Switch to a monitor with an HDMI input if everything else fails. While it won’t be as good as using a TV, this will nonetheless provide you with an image.

Final Thought,

So, How to connect switch to pc? The Nintendo Switch is a fantastic device, but did you know it can also be connected to a PC? A specific USB-C cable that works with the Switch must be purchased.

Simply attach the Switch’s connection to a free USB port on your computer at that point.

You may view the Switch’s files and transfer them to your PC once you’re connected. Using a controller or a keyboard and mouse, you can play Switch games on your PC over this connection.

So, if you want to maximize the use of your Switch, think about connecting it to your PC. It’s simple to execute and offers a plethora of opportunities!