11 Brilliant Switch Features You Should Know

While the console is familiar to many, there are still numerous features and settings that are often overlooked. We’ll introduce you to some of these helpful features, some of which you probably didn’t know yet.

With the wealth of features that the Switch launched in 2017 and others that have since been added, it’s hard to keep track. We have selected a few of the most important ones for you.

Nintendo Switch: Hidden features make life easier

1. Pair the switch with Bluetooth headphones

It wasn’t there at first, but now you can pair Bluetooth headphones to your console — and it’s really quick, too:

system settings → bluetooth audio → pair device

2. Connect a USB keyboard or headset to the switch

There are three USB ports on your docking station, which are great for connecting USB devices. You can’t use a keyboard to play, but it can save time when you need to enter passwords, for example. USB headsets are also compatible.

3. Remaps the buttons of the Joy-Cons

Sometimes the default button configuration just isn’t ideal. If this is the case for you too, you have the option of customizing your layout.

system settings → controls and sensors → Change key assignment

4. Find misplaced Switch Joy-Cons

If you misplace one of your controllers, the Switch can help you find it. With the push of a button, you can vibrate the lost controller until you find it again.
main menu → Controller / Search for controller → Find controllers → Vibrate

5. Use the Switch’s voice chat to talk to friends

Once you’ve made friends with someone, you’ll have the option to talk to them through the Switch Online app. Games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Splatoon 2, Super Mario Party, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate support this feature.

To use the feature, you need to download the “Nintendo Switch Online” app from the App Store (iOS devices) or Google Play Store (Android):

6. Put Switch in Dark Mode

The dark mode can provide relaxation for the eyes and even save a little energy on the OLED models of the switch. If you prefer this mode, you can also set it on your console.
Ideas → designs → Plain black activate (or Plain whiteto undo it)

7. Funny sounds in Switch lock screen

You can unlock your switch by pressing any key three times. Most of the keys sound the same, but both the left and right thumbsticks and the ZL and ZR keys sound like a clown horn. Furthermore, the click that the Switch makes when you tap anywhere is pressure sensitive. This means the tone changes depending on how hard you press.

Which Switch games would you rather not have bought? We show you our selection in this video:

8. Provide additional storage space on your switch

In some games you only have one slot available. If you want one more, for example to be able to return to a place, there is a simple solution – create a second user. If you then start a game, you will be shown a choice.
Ideas → user → add user

9. Use the zoom function of the Nintendo Switch

In Switch games, it regularly happens that small texts are displayed or that you have to search for things. To make this easier for you, you can use the zoom function – you can do this in the system settings → console → zoom activate.

Press the home button twice. Now you can use X and Y to change the strength of the magnifying glass function.

10. Move the switch memory data to a MicroSD

By default, your data is stored on your Switch’s internal storage. If you need space there but don’t want to lose your saved games, you can transfer them to a MicroSD.
system settings → data management → Move data between system and MicroSD card → Move to MicroSD card

11. Hard reset when the switch crashes

It shouldn’t normally happen, but the Nintendo Switch isn’t immune to the occasional crash. If the console does not respond to any of your commands, only a hard reset will help, i.e. a “hard” restart.

To do this, press and hold the power button on the top for about 12 seconds – the device will switch off completely. It is recommended to wait about 30 seconds before turning the Switch back on to avoid crashing again.