Got it 👍 You want to connect a retro controller (like Retro-Bit, 8BitDo, or other classic-style pads) to your Nintendo Switch. The exact method depends on whether it’s wired (USB) or wireless (Bluetooth / 2.4GHz dongle). Here’s a clear step-by-step guide:
🎮 1. Wired Retro Controller (USB)
Many retro controllers (Retro-Bit, 8BitDo USB versions) can plug directly into the Switch dock.
Steps:
Plug the controller’s USB cable into a Switch dock USB port.
On your Switch:
Go to System Settings → Controllers and Sensors.
Turn Pro Controller Wired Communication = ON.
Press a button on the retro controller — the Switch should recognize it as a Pro Controller.
✅ Done. Works best in docked mode.
🎮 2. Wireless Retro Controller (Bluetooth)
If your retro controller has Bluetooth (e.g., 8BitDo, Retro-Bit Bluetooth editions):
Steps:
Put the controller into pairing mode (usually hold Start + specific button combo, check your model’s manual).
Example: 8BitDo SN30 Pro uses Start + Y for Switch mode.
On Switch:
Go to System Settings → Controllers and Sensors → Change Grip/Order.
Switch will start searching.
On controller: hold the Pair button until the LEDs flash.
When the Switch detects it, select it to finish pairing.
✅ Now it acts like a Switch Pro Controller.
🎮 3. Wireless with 2.4GHz Dongle
Some retro controllers (like Retro-Bit Sega Saturn 2.4GHz or NES clones) come with a USB dongle.
Steps:
Plug the dongle into the Switch dock USB port.
Turn on the retro controller (hold Start or Power).
The dongle + controller should auto-pair.
If not, press the Pair button on both dongle & controller.
✅ Fastest connection method, low latency.
⚠️ Things to Note
Button Layouts: Retro pads often have SNES, Genesis, or Saturn button layouts. On Switch, button mapping may feel swapped (B/A, X/Y). You can fix this:
Go to System Settings → Controllers and Sensors → Change Button Mapping.
Firmware Updates: Some controllers (e.g. 8BitDo) need firmware updates for best Switch compatibility.
Sleep/Wake: Not all retro controllers can wake the Switch from sleep. You may need to press a Joy-Con or Pro Controller first.
Retro gaming never goes out of style. With the Nintendo Switch, you can enjoy both modern blockbusters and classic hits like Super Mario World or Street Fighter II. But playing those games with a Joy-Con just doesn’t feel the same as holding a classic pad.
The good news: many retro controllers (like Retro-Bit, 8BitDo, or other clones) work on the Switch! Here’s how to connect them — whether wired, Bluetooth, or 2.4GHz wireless.
🎮 Option 1: Wired Retro Controller (USB)
This is the easiest method for retro controllers that connect with a USB cable.
Steps:
Dock your Switch and plug the controller’s USB cable into a port on the dock.
On the Switch, go to:
System Settings → Controllers and Sensors → Pro Controller Wired Communication → ON
Press any button on the retro controller to wake it up.
✅ The Switch should recognize it as a Pro Controller. Best for docked mode play.
🎮 Option 2: Wireless Retro Controller (Bluetooth)
If your retro pad supports Bluetooth (for example, 8BitDo SN30 Pro, Retro-Bit Bluetooth editions):
Steps:
Put the controller into Switch pairing mode.
For 8BitDo SN30 Pro: hold Start + Y until lights flash.
(Other models may use Start + B or a dedicated Pair button).
On your Switch, go to:
Controllers → Change Grip/Order
Hold the controller’s Pair button until the Switch detects it.
Select it when it shows up on screen.
✅ You’re now wireless! Works in handheld (with a stand) or docked mode.
🎮 Option 3: Wireless with 2.4GHz Dongle
Some retro controllers (like Retro-Bit Sega Saturn 2.4GHz or NES clones) include a dongle.
Steps:
Plug the USB dongle into a Switch dock USB port.
Power on your retro controller.
If not auto-paired, press the Pair button on both dongle and controller.
✅ These connections are super stable and have less input lag than Bluetooth.
⚙️ Extra Tips for Retro Controllers on Switch
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Remap Buttons:
Many retro pads use SNES or Genesis layouts, so A/B and X/Y may feel reversed. Fix this in:-
System Settings → Controllers and Sensors → Change Button Mapping
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Firmware Updates:
Brands like 8BitDo release firmware updates to improve Switch compatibility. Always worth checking their support page. -
Wake from Sleep:
Some retro controllers cannot wake the Switch. Use a Joy-Con or Pro Controller for that, then switch back.
🛒 Where to Get the Best Retro Controllers
If you’re looking to upgrade your setup, check out this collection:
👉 Retro Game Controllers at GameLoopX
They’ve got Bluetooth, wired, and 2.4GHz retro controllers — perfect for reliving the classics on your Switch.
📌 Final Thoughts
Whether you want the authentic Sega Saturn feel, a SNES-style pad, or just something more comfortable than Joy-Cons, connecting a retro controller to your Switch is easier than you think. With a little setup, you’ll be button-mashing like it’s 1995 again.