Adjusting Nintendo Switch Controller Lights

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Adjusting Nintendo Switch Controller Lights

Hey guys! Ever wondered how to tweak the lights on your Nintendo Switch controller? Well, you're in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about customizing the lights on your Joy-Cons and Pro Controller. Let's dive in!

Understanding the Lights on Your Nintendo Switch Controller

First off, let's talk about what these lights actually mean. The lights on your Nintendo Switch controllers aren't just for show; they serve a few important purposes. Usually, the player number is what is indicated by these lights. Knowing the player number is very important, so you don't get confused when playing with your buddies.

  • Player Indicators: The most common use is to indicate which player number you are. Each of the four lights represents a player, so if only the first light is lit, you're Player 1, and so on.
  • Charging Status: The lights also tell you about the charging status of your controllers. When you plug them in, the lights will blink to show they're charging, and they'll turn off when fully charged.
  • System Notifications: Sometimes, the lights will flash to indicate system notifications or errors. Keep an eye out for unusual patterns, as these can signal that something needs your attention.

Why Adjust the Lights?

Okay, so why would you even want to adjust these lights? There are a few reasons:

  • Battery Saving: Those little lights can actually drain your battery, especially if you're playing for long periods. Dimming or turning them off can help extend your playtime.
  • Reducing Distractions: Sometimes, the lights can be distracting, especially in a dark room. Lowering the brightness can make for a more immersive gaming experience.
  • Personal Preference: Maybe you just don't like the way they look! Customizing the lights can help you create a setup that you find more aesthetically pleasing.

Adjusting the Brightness on Joy-Cons

Unfortunately, Nintendo doesn't provide a direct way to adjust the brightness of the player indicator lights on the Joy-Cons. However, there are a few workarounds you can try:

  • Using System Settings: While you can't specifically dim the player indicator lights, you can adjust the overall screen brightness in the system settings. This will indirectly affect the brightness of the lights on the Joy-Cons.

    • Go to System Settings from the HOME Menu.
    • Select "System" and then "Brightness."
    • Adjust the brightness to your liking. Keep in mind that this will also affect the screen brightness, so find a balance that works for you.

  • Using Stickers or Covers: Some players use small stickers or light-dimming covers to reduce the brightness of the lights. You can find these accessories online or at most gaming stores. Just be careful not to block the lights completely, as this could interfere with system notifications.

Adjusting the Brightness on the Pro Controller

The Pro Controller offers a bit more flexibility when it comes to adjusting the lights. Here’s how you can do it:

  • Using Third-Party Tools: The most effective way to adjust the brightness of the Pro Controller lights is by using third-party tools. These tools allow you to connect your Pro Controller to a PC and customize various settings, including the brightness of the lights.

    • BetterJoy: BetterJoy is a popular tool that allows you to use your Pro Controller on your PC and customize its settings. It also lets you adjust the brightness of the player indicator lights.

      • Download and install BetterJoy from GitHub.
      • Connect your Pro Controller to your PC via USB.
      • Open BetterJoy and select your Pro Controller.
      • Adjust the brightness settings to your preference.

    • ReWASD: ReWASD is another powerful tool that offers extensive customization options for your Pro Controller. It allows you to remap buttons, create macros, and adjust the brightness of the lights.

      • Download and install ReWASD from the official website.
      • Connect your Pro Controller to your PC via USB.
      • Open ReWASD and select your Pro Controller.
      • Adjust the brightness settings to your liking.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using BetterJoy

Since BetterJoy is a free and widely used option, let’s go through the steps in detail:

  1. Download and Install BetterJoy:

    • Go to the BetterJoy GitHub page and download the latest version.
    • Extract the downloaded ZIP file to a folder on your computer.
    • Run the BetterJoyForCemu.exe file to install the drivers. You may need to install additional drivers if prompted.

  2. Connect Your Pro Controller:

    • Connect your Pro Controller to your PC using a USB cable.
    • Make sure your controller is recognized by Windows. You can check this in the Device Manager.

  3. Open BetterJoy:

    • Run the BetterJoyForCemu.exe file again to open the BetterJoy application.
    • You should see your Pro Controller listed in the application.

  4. Adjust Brightness Settings:

    • Select your Pro Controller in BetterJoy.
    • Look for the brightness settings. The exact location may vary depending on the version of BetterJoy.
    • Adjust the brightness slider to your desired level.
    • The changes should take effect immediately. You can test the brightness by disconnecting and reconnecting your Pro Controller to your Nintendo Switch.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using reWASD

  1. Download and Install reWASD:
    • Go to the reWASD website and download the latest version.
    • Follow the installation instructions to install the software on your computer.
  2. Connect Your Pro Controller:
    • Connect your Pro Controller to your PC using a USB cable.
    • Ensure that your controller is recognized by Windows.
  3. Open reWASD:
    • Launch the reWASD application.
    • You should see your Pro Controller listed in the application.
  4. Adjust Brightness Settings:
    • Select your Pro Controller in reWASD.
    • Create a new profile or edit an existing one.
    • Look for the LED settings or brightness options.
    • Adjust the brightness slider to your preferred level.
    • Apply the changes and test the brightness by disconnecting and reconnecting your Pro Controller to your Nintendo Switch.

Other Tips and Tricks

Here are a few additional tips to help you get the most out of your Nintendo Switch controller lights:

  • Check for Firmware Updates: Make sure your Nintendo Switch and controllers are running the latest firmware. Nintendo occasionally releases updates that include new features and improvements, so it's always a good idea to stay up-to-date.
  • Use a Charging Dock: If you frequently use multiple controllers, consider investing in a charging dock. This will make it easy to keep your controllers charged and ready to go, and it can also help extend their lifespan.
  • Experiment with Different Settings: Don't be afraid to experiment with different settings to find what works best for you. Everyone has different preferences, so take the time to customize your setup to your liking.

Conclusion

So there you have it! Adjusting the lights on your Nintendo Switch controller can enhance your gaming experience by saving battery, reducing distractions, and personalizing your setup. While the Joy-Cons offer limited customization options, the Pro Controller can be easily adjusted using third-party tools like BetterJoy and reWASD. Follow these steps, and you’ll be gaming in style in no time!

Happy gaming, folks! ✨