The 10 Best Nintendo Switch Features

Hidden tricks and tips for your hybrid gaming console

By Robert Earl Wells III
Updated on November 25, 2019
Consoles & PCs

Aside from the ability to play games on the go, the Nintendo Switch features parental controls, voice chat, and other capabilities that you may not know about. Here's a list of the top hidden (or at least not obvious) features you may find useful.

These Nintendo Switch tips apply to the original model of the console.

01
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Locate Your Joy-Con Controllers

Select Find Controller.

If one of your Joy-Con controllers has gone missing, don't go out and buy a new one just yet. Instead, use the Nintendo Switch's Find Controller feature. It won't work in every circumstance, but if your controller is nearby and paired with your console, this might save you the trouble of having to buy a new one.

02
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Pair the Joy-Cons With Your PC or Android Device

Detach the Joy-Con from the Switch and press the Sync button, then search for it on your Bluetooth enabled device.

Just as it's possible to connect a PS3 controller to an Android device, you can use the Switch Joy-Con controllers on your Android smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth. You can just as easily pair the Joy-Cons with a computer to play games on Steam. Just detach the Joy-Con from the Switch and press the Sync button, then search for it on your Bluetooth enabled device.

03
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Create a New Profile for Extra Save Files on Your Switch

Select Create New User.

Some games only allow for one save file per user, so if you need an extra save slot, just add a new user profile. Then you can transfer save data between users. Unfortunately, you can't share save data between profiles, but this is still a viable workaround if you need extra save files.

04
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Transfer Save Data Between Switch Consoles

On the other Switch console, go to System Settings > Data Management > Transfer Your Save Data and select Receive Save Data.

It's possible to transfer save data between two Nintendo Switch systems. Both consoles must be near each other and connected to the internet. They should also have the latest firmware update installed.

05
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Change Your Switch's Region

Select your preferred region and follow the on-screen prompts.

The Switch is region-free, so it plays games released in all parts of the world. Still, there are a few reasons you might want to change the region settings for your console. For example, you can purchase games that have only been released in Japan (although the text and voice acting will be in Japanese).

To set your Switch's region:

  1. Select System Settings from the main menu.
  2. Select System, then select Region.
  3. Select your preferred region and follow the on-screen prompts. You'll be required to restart the console.

Changing the region automatically changes the language settings, and it gives you access to the Nintendo eShop for that region; however, to purchase games, you must create a new user account.

06
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Add a User For a Different Region

Select Link a Nintendo Account, then enter the email address you provided for the new account.

You can make a new Nintendo account online using any web browser. Provide a different email address from the one associated with your other account, and make sure to select the desired region. Once the new account is set up then link the two accounts:

  1. Select System Settings from the main menu.
  2. Select Users > Add User.
  3. Select Import User Data from Another Console.
  4. Select No.
  5. Select Yes.
  6. Select Link a Nintendo Account, then enter the email address you provided for the new account.
07
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Transfer Games and User Data Between Switch Consoles

Once the source console detects the target console, select Transfer on the source console.

User data includes games and other content downloaded from the Nintendo eShop. To transfer user data between systems:

  1. Select System Settings from the main menu on the console with your user data.
  2. Select Users > Transfer Your User Data.
  3. Select Next.
  4. Select Next again.
  5. Select Source Console.
  6. Select Continue.
  7. Repeat steps 1-4 on the other Switch system, then select Target Console.
  8. Once the source console detects the target console, select Transfer on the source console.

It is also possible to transfer user data between Switches with a microSD card.

08
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Voice Chat on Nintendo Switch

After you sign into your Nintendo account, select Voice Chat from the home menu and follow the on-screen instructions.

If you play online games like Splatoon 2, you can chat with your teammates using the Nintendo Switch Online app, which is available for iOS and Android. After you sign into your Nintendo account, select Voice Chat from the home menu and follow the on-screen instructions.

09
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Use a USB Keyboard or Headset With the Switch

You can plug any USB keyboard into one of the USB ports on the Switch dock.

Speaking of online gaming, you can plug most headsets and keyboards into your Switch using the USB ports. While you can't play games with a keyboard, you can use it to input passwords and other text. Wireless Bluetooth headsets, including most PS4 headsets, are also compatible with the Switch.

10
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Set Up Parental Controls for Nintendo Switch

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The Nintendo Switch Online app can also be used to set up parental controls for the Switch. Parental controls allow you to set limits on playtime and restrict access to certain games and features. When you first launch the app, you'll have the option to create an account for a child. You'll be required to provide your credit card information (to prove that you're an adult) and set up a password.

Write down your password and store it somewhere safe, as you'll be challenged to reset it in the future.

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