You are not the only one facing this issue. Many people are complaining that their Nintendo Switch does not charge or turn ON.
Sometimes, the console fails to wake up out of sleep mode. While in other cases, it does not start at all. All these problems are fixable.
I have found very easy and simple hacks. A few troubleshooting tricks can fix your console. You just need to follow this guide correctly.
1. Is Your Switch Docked?
Do you know how Nintendo Switch works? It can be docked and undocked according to the requirements. It does not have a power indicator to tell you about the ON/OFF position.
When you connect the console to the TV and place it in the dock, its screen turns OFF automatically. Because the TV screen displays the software application.
So, check this fact. This can be the reason your Switch is waking up and the screen is OFF.
2. Reset the AC Adapter
The official method to solve the problem is to reset the AC adapter. The console may not be charging due to a faulty adapter. Here is how to do it;
- Unplug the adapter from both the Nintendo Switch and the wall power outlet.
- Leave it for 30-60 seconds.
- Then, replug the AC adapter into the console and the power source.
- Make sure you are using the original adapter provided with your Switch.
- Third-party power adapters can create charging issues.
3. Turn ON Manually
Do you know, your Switch can be turned ON through the Joy-Cons? If the Switch is docked, turn it ON manually with the Joy-Cons.
However, this method cannot work if they are unpaired or have no power. Once, it comes up, you can hard reset the console to avoid the problem in the future.
Instead of the controller, turn ON the Switch by pressing the “Power” button on it.
4. Charge This Way
If the battery has some power, it can charge in a short time. However, a fully drained battery needs much time. So, let your Switch charge for 3 hours initially.
Then, charge for 24 hours. Charging can be done by two methods. Place the console in the dock and let the device charge.
The other way is to plug the console directly into the power outlet. A charging icon appears on the left corner of the screen.
Further, make sure that the power outlet is not faulty and working well. Connect some other device to the outlet to test its functioning.
5. Force Restart Your Switch
A force restart can work on your Nintendo Switch. It may delete some of the data. However, your console will turn ON.
- First, charge the console fully.
- Now, press and hold the “Power” button for 20 seconds.
- Release the button and then press the Power button once.
- The console will turn ON.
- If the force restart does not work on the first attempt, try again.
- Try the reset process twice or thrice.
6. Clean the Device
Dirty charging or USB ports also cause the issue. Look at the bottom of the console. Clean the port and remove all the debris.
You can use a toothpick or compressed air can for cleaning the port. Take a flashlight and look inside the hole. The port may be corroded from the inside.
In this case, it needs to be replaced. Likewise, you should clean the power button. The device may have captured moisture.
The motherboard has a liquid damage indicator. It glows red when liquid enters the device. So, it can confirm the liquid damage issue that can be fixed.
7. Test the Voltage
By testing the voltage, you can diagnose the problem. Take a USB or USB-C type Multimeter. Nintendo Switch requires 15 Volts and 1.2 Amps for proper charging.
No power, low current reading, or inadequate voltage indicates a faulty port. Hence, the port or the mainboard needs to be replaced.
8. Hardware is Defective
If nothing works, your console has defective hardware. The mina board, CPU, display, power cable, or adapter is faulty.
Inspect the cable along its entire length. Look for any cuts, burns, bends, or damaged areas. Also, examine the adapter and the dock.
Make sure the power cable fits firmly into the ports. Loosely fitting cables refer to damaged ports.
9. Battery is Expired
Battery issues can happen due to dual usage. Sometimes, the console is docked and other times it is handheld. It should turn ON after charging for 24 hours.
Otherwise, the battery is defective. Although the screen displays a charging icon yet it does not store energy.
The battery swells due to overcharging. It needs to be replaced. You should get a new battery from the company.
10. Contact Nintendo Support
The final possible cause is that the motherboard is faulty. It controls all the functions of the console. Any failed component leads to a charging issue.
In some cases, it clearly shows the signs of damage. However, you must consult Nintendo customer support.
The manufacturer can diagnose the root cause. You may need to send the console to the company for repair.
FAQs Related to Nintendo Switch
Do you have further queries? Please read the following important questions I added for your help.
How long a completely dead Nintendo Switch takes to charge fully?
It takes almost 3-3.5 hours to fully charge a dead battery. It can take 24 hours if the Switch is dead for many days. However, other factors also affect the charging process. For example, battery health, adapter, and age of the Switch determine the power storage.
How to check the battery percentage on the Switch?
Battery level can be checked by the Settings. From the “Home” menu, choose “System Settings”. Next, click on “System” on the left side. Choose “Console Battery %” which appears on the right-hand side. Press A to show the battery percentage on the Home screen.
Can I charge my Nintendo Switch with a phone charger?
You can charge it with the phone charger but temporarily. Do not use it on a permanent basis. Otherwise, the battery can get weak and eventually will damage. Because the phone’s USB charger cannot provide adequate voltage.
Also read: Factory Resetting Nintendo Switch Without the PIN
Final Words
It is quite easy to fix your Nintendo Switch that won’t turn ON or charge. Just follow this guide patiently. I hope now your Switch is working well. Stay connected for more updates and information.
