The Nintendo Switch is an exciting device. You can use the included power dock to charge and play, or you can use the included AC adapter to take your Switch on the go. However, users are starting to wonder if there are other ways they can charge their console, such as with a normal USB-C cable.
It’s possible to charge a Nintendo Switch with a normal USB-C cable. You’ll receive less efficient charge times than with the official AC adapter. Nintendo-branded Switch chargers are your best bet. A small phone charger may not be enough to charge a Switch.
Although Nintendo comes with an AC adapter in the box, there may be better options for charging. The officially licensed portable power banks and chargers make excellent secondary options. Here’s what you need to know about charing the Switch.
Can You Use a USB-C Phone Charger To Charge a Nintendo Switch?
The Nintendo Switch charges primarily on the standard USB-C port at around 15 V 2.6 A, or 39 Watts. However, the Nintendo Switch is an incredibly versatile device that supports multiple charging options. This means you can use your phone charger to charge your Nintendo Switch. However, this method isn’t without caveats.
Using a standard phone charger to charge your Nintendo Switch is going to result in a comparatively slower charge rate. The maximum charging rate you’ll receive from a typical phone charger will be around 13 Watts, which is significantly less than what the Nintendo Switch requires.
Not to mention, the Nintendo Switch isn’t compatible with the QuickCharge 2.0 or 3.0 option that most smartphones use. This means you won’t get the hyper-fast charge times that you’re used to. If your Switch power button seems to not be working, note that’s probably because it’s totally dead and you should just make sure you’re using the right USB-C cable to try and charge it.
The bottom line is; if you need to charge your Nintendo Switch using a phone charger, go for it. However, it will take quite some time, and you’ll probably need to leave it charging overnight. that said, if your dock is bused and/or you don’t have another option, this is definitely OK to do in the grand scheme.
Can You Use a Power Bank to Charge the Switch?
You should never use a random power bank to charge your Nintendo Switch. Any device that claims to have IQ charging capabilities or QuickCharge features is strictly not advised, as your device will charge at a snail’s pace.
Furthermore, your Nintendo Switch could suffer damages due to the power differences. The Nintendo Switch doesn’t interact well with these technologies and can be bricked if mismanaged.
However, there are officially licensed power banks and products that are specifically designed for charging the Nintendo Switch. Opt for these products If you want to get the most life and longevity out of your console. This is a great way to handle any issues with your AC adapter.
What’s the Best Way to Charge a Nintendo Switch?
The Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite come with an official Nintendo Switch AC Adapter (on Amazon) when you purchase them. Generally speaking, the Nintendo Switch AC adapter is going to be the best way to charge your Switch.
The most common way to use the adapter is to power the dock. Powering the dock allows you to power and charge your Switch at the same time. However, you can also unplug the AC adapter from the dock and connect it directly to your Switch.
The official Nintendo Switch AC Adapter allows you enough energy to charge the Switch, even while you play. However, the Switch will charge at a slower rate when you’re gaming, compared to recharging in Standby mode.
Nintendo states that all Switch consoles take about three hours to fully charge in Standby mode when using the official Nintendo Switch AC Adapter. For more on this, see our articles on the total Switch charging time and how to speed it up, how long it takes to charge from 0 to 1% (when totally dead), and what to do if your Switch battery is just not lasting long enough.
Licensed Chargers for the Nintendo Switch
As mentioned earlier, Nintendo has provided their customers with officially licensed chargers for their consoles. This allows their customers more versatility and customization without risking any damage to their consoles. Here are a few options to consider:
Anker PowerCore 13400 Nintendo Switch Edition
The Anker PowerCore 13400 (on Amazon) is one of the stand-out options for officially licensed chargers. Anker is one of the most trusted and respected brands when it comes to power banks. The small portable design allows for easy transportation and mobility. In fact, you can even fit this device in your carrying case.
Some key features include:
- 22.5W USB-C Power Delivery
- Charges Switch as fast as possible in handheld mode
- Provides an extra 5-7.5+ hours of playtime, depending on your Switch model
- Includes USB-C to USB-C cable
- A unique model from a trusted brand
Despite all the good features, the Anker PowerCore 13400 lacks fast charging capabilities for certain smartphones. This means you may want to look elsewhere if you plan to use your power bank for multiple devices. The 13400 is a great power bank for the Nintendo Switch, but not much else.
Anker PowerCore 20100 Nintendo Switch Edition
Look for the Anker PowerCore 20100 (on Amazon) if you want something a bit bigger and bolder than the option listed above. The 20100 is more robust than the 13400, providing faster charging times and more hours of playtime. You still receive the reliability of an Anker product.
In addition, Nintendo runs their officially licensed chargers through rigorous testing metrics. This means you know you’re getting what you pay for.
Some of the features of this option include:
- 24W USB-C Power Delivery
- Charges Switch as fast as possible in handheld mode
- Provides an extra 8-12+ hours of playtime, depending on your Switch model
- Includes USB-C to USB-C cable
The Anker PowerCore 20100 is an excellent option if you want a bit more playtime. However, you may be better off with a different product if you want something more portable.
Nintendo Switch High-Speed Car Charger by HORI
If you’re looking for a spare charger to keep in your car or something for a road trip, look no further than the High-Speed Car Charger by HORI (on Amazon). This charger’s features include:
- 15W USB-C
- Built-in cable, 6 feet
- Charges Switch while you play in handheld mode
- Not a fast charger, but more than enough to keep playing throughout a long road trip
Compared to the other car adapters, HORI’s model is truly in the middle of the road. The price point is fair, the cable is long enough, and it has enough power to get the job done.
PDP Gaming Play and Charge Car Adapter
If you’re willing to pay a bit more, consider the PDP Gaming Play Car Adapter (on Amazon). The PDP is similar to the other solutions provided, but it has a shorter cable. If you don’t need extra length, this may be the solution for you. Features include:
- 15W USB-C
- Built-in cable, 5 feet
- Charges Switch while you play in handheld mode
- Suitable for road trips and long drives
Although the PDP is a bit more robust than the other options provided, it doesn’t offer much more value. The built-in cable is one foot shorter than the one that comes with other chargers. If you don’t want a longer cable, it’s perfect.
However, as the most expensive option, you may be better off saving a few dollars on another product.
PowerA Nintendo Switch Car Charger
The PowerA Nintendo Switch Car Charger (on Amazon) is the least expensive adapter on our list. It lacks a bit of durability compared to the other options provided. However, its affordable cost makes it an excellent option to consider. It also offers the following features:
- 15W USB-C
- Built-in cable, 6 feet
- Charges Switch while you play in handheld mode
- Decent charge time works well on long trips
- It doesn’t have the best durability compared to other options
It’s no surprise that PowerA is on the cheaper side. You won’t receive any bells or whistles with this product. However, it’s a great option if you want something fast, portable, and accessible. Just be careful to treat it with care, as the less expensive design results in lower quality components.
What Is USB-C?
USB-C is a type of universal serial bus (USB), which is technology used to connect computers, peripherals, and other computers. The 24-pin connector is an industry standard for transmitting both data and power from a single cable.
The USB-C connector was created and designed by the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) in 2014. USB-C has been accepted and used by the top PC manufacturers, such as Dell, HP, Intel, and more. It’s also used for charging nearly all Android phones.
The Final Verdict
Remember, using the wrong charger can completely brick your Nintendo Switch. That’s why it’s crucial to choose the right charging option or adapter. Thankfully, Nintendo has worked to create official third-party chargers that won’t damage your device.
So, what’s the best officially licensed Nintendo Switch charger? We suggest going with the Anker PowerCore 13400 (on Amazon) for a power bank solution. If you’re in the market for car adapters, opt for the PowerA (on Amazon) or HORI Car Charger(on Amazon). You’ll receive more hours of playtime, accessibility, and portability with any of these chargers.