Can You Charge A Nintendo Switch With A Phone Charger?
bgr.com • • technology
Key Points:
- Nintendo Switch consoles use USB-C with USB Power Delivery (USB PD) for charging, allowing compatibility with many USB-C phone chargers, but Nintendo’s specific power requirements can complicate this.
- First-generation Switch models need up to 14W for handheld charging and 39W (15V/2.6A) for TV mode, requiring at least a 45W USB-C charger for docked use, which many phone chargers do not provide.
- The Switch 2 demands 12W for handheld charging and 54W (20V/3A) for TV mode, necessitating a 60W USB PD charger for docking, a power level uncommon in typical phone chargers.
- For handheld use, most USB-C phone chargers with USB PD support can charge both first-generation Switch models and the Switch 2, but docking requires higher-wattage chargers or the official Nintendo adapter.
- Users actively playing while charging in handheld mode should consider using a more powerful charger to prevent battery drain during gameplay.