Nintendo Switch users can now enjoy the convenience of using Bluetooth headphones thanks to a recent firmware update. However, connecting Bluetooth headphones to the Switch can still be a bit tricky. In this article, we will guide you on how to connect your Bluetooth headphones to the Nintendo Switch and share some tips to enhance your audio experience. Let’s dive in!

Can You Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Nintendo Switch?

Yes, you can! The 13.0 system update introduced Bluetooth audio support for Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite. Previously, the Switch only allowed Bluetooth connectivity for its wireless controllers and did not support Bluetooth audio. With the latest update, you can easily connect your Bluetooth headphones to your Switch without the need for additional accessories.

How to Update your Nintendo Switch or Switch Lite

Before you can connect Bluetooth headphones to your Switch, ensure that your console operates on system version 13.0 or later. To update your Nintendo Switch, follow these simple steps:

1. From the HOME menu, select System Settings.
   

2. Scroll down and select System.
   

3. Choose System Update. The console will check for updates automatically and download them if available.
   

How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite

Once your Nintendo Switch is updated to the latest OS, you can easily connect your Bluetooth headphones. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Put your Bluetooth headphones in pairing mode.
2. From the Nintendo Switch Home menu, go to System Settings.
3. Navigate to Bluetooth Audio and select Pair. This will initiate a search for available Bluetooth audio devices.
4. Choose your Bluetooth headphones from the list to pair them with your Switch.

Bluetooth Audio Limitations on Nintendo Switch

While Bluetooth audio support on the Nintendo Switch offers wireless convenience, it does have some limitations. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Number of wireless controllers: The Switch can only connect to a maximum of two wireless controllers at a time. Note that a pair of Joy-Con controllers counts as two separate devices.
• Number of Bluetooth devices: You can only connect one Bluetooth headset at a time. The Switch can save up to 10 Bluetooth devices, so you may need to remove a saved device if you reach this limit.
• No local communication support: Bluetooth headphones cannot be used during local wireless communication. This means you won’t be able to use them while playing local multiplayer games.
• No Bluetooth mic support: The Nintendo Switch does not support Bluetooth microphones. However, using a dongle with a built-in microphone can provide a workaround.
• Audio lag: Some Bluetooth headsets may experience audio lag due to the Switch’s use of Bluetooth 4.1 and the SBC codec. This may result in a noticeable delay between on-screen action and audio.
• Can’t track lost controllers: When Bluetooth audio is connected, you won’t be able to use the “Controllers” menu to find lost controllers or change grip/order.

How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Switch Using Different Bluetooth Adapters

If you prefer alternatives to the built-in Bluetooth feature, you can use Bluetooth adapters or dongles with your Nintendo Switch. These can offer additional benefits such as using more than two wireless controllers simultaneously, LAN connection support, no audio lag, and Bluetooth mic support (depending on the adapter). Let’s explore some options:

Using a USB-A Bluetooth Adapter

For docked mode, you can use a USB-A Bluetooth adapter with your Nintendo Switch. Follow these steps to connect your Bluetooth headphones:

1. Put your headphones in pairing mode.
2. Insert the Bluetooth adapter into the USB-A port on your Nintendo dock.
3. Press and hold the Bluetooth/power button on the adapter until the light changes color.
4. On your Switch, you’ll see a notification confirming that the USB audio mode is active.

Using a USB-C Bluetooth Adapter

If you prefer portable gameplay, a USB-C Bluetooth adapter is a great option. Here’s how to connect your Bluetooth headphones using a USB-C adapter:

1. Get a compatible USB-C Bluetooth adapter like the Guilikit Route Air Pro.
2. Insert the adapter into the USB-C port on your Nintendo Switch.
3. If your Bluetooth adapter has a mic, plug it into the 3.5 mm auxiliary port.
4. Turn on the Bluetooth adapter and put your headphones in pairing mode.
5. The headset and the audio transmitter should connect automatically, indicated by an audio prompt.

Using a 3.5mm Bluetooth Adapter

Another option is to use a Bluetooth dongle with a 3.5mm jack. Here’s how you can connect your Switch using a 3.5mm Bluetooth adapter:

1. Put your headphones in pairing mode.
2. Press and hold the multifunctional button on the transmitter until a white light flashes every five seconds.
3. Plug the audio transmitter into the 3.5mm audio jack on your Switch.
4. Press the multifunction button on the transmitter twice to initiate pairing mode.
5. Once connected, the white light on the transmitter will flash every 10 seconds.

How to Use Bluetooth Headphones on Switch Without Buying a Dongle

If you don’t have a Bluetooth adapter or dongle, you can still use Bluetooth headphones with your Nintendo Switch by connecting it to a laptop or PC. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Your Nintendo Switch
• A laptop or PC
• A compatible male-to-male AUX cord

Follow these steps:

1. Plug the AUX cord into your Nintendo Switch and the laptop or PC.
2. Choose Line-in as the input source on your laptop or PC.
3. Turn on Bluetooth on both your headphones and the laptop or PC.
4. Connect your Bluetooth headphones to your laptop or PC.

For a visual guide, you can refer to this Youtube tutorial.

Best Bluetooth Adapters for Nintendo Switch

If you’re looking for the best Bluetooth adapters or dongles for your Nintendo Switch, here are some recommendations:

• Homespot Bluetooth Audio Transmitter: This adapter, designed specifically for the Switch, offers high-fidelity audio streaming and supports dual headphone connectivity.
• Genki Bluetooth Audio Transmitter: The Genki adapter allows two headphones to connect simultaneously and comes with additional accessories like a boom mic accessory and USB adapter for dock mode.
• UGREEN Bluetooth 5.0 Transmitter: This adapter fits into the 3.5mm headphone jack and supports aptX low latency codec for minimal audio lag. It also offers dual headphone connectivity and supports multiple audio codecs.

Conclusion

With these tips, you can now enjoy the freedom of wireless audio on your Nintendo Switch. No more tangled wires or limitations of using wired headphones. Whether you choose to connect Bluetooth headphones through the built-in feature or use Bluetooth adapters, you can enhance your gaming experience with high-quality audio. For more information on wireless gaming headsets, check out our list of recommended options. If you have any tips or hacks to share, feel free to leave a comment. Happy gaming!

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