Nintendo Switch Bundled Grip Doesn't Charge Joy-Cons
By Derek Nichols 16 January 2017
Online store descriptions reveal that the Nintendo Switch packed in Joy-Con grip accessory does not charge the Joy-Con controllers as fans need to purchase a separate accessory.
It’s been a busy month so far for Nintendo as the company finally pulled the curtain back on its next console called the Switch. After revealing the hardware last October in a trailer, fans found answers to many burning questions such as the release date, price point, and many intricacies of the system including HD rumble, IR scanning, and more. While the default package does not include a pack in game, fans are now learning that another pack in item may not function the way many originally expected.
After clarification from a number of online shops, the Joy-Con grip that is bundled with the Nintendo Switch console does not actually charge the small Joy-Con controllers. Left unclear by Nintendo during its Switch reveal event, the basic Joy-Con grip is actually just a shell in order to hold both the left and right Joy-Con controllers while playing a game. Retailers such as GameStop are now listing the item as sold separately.
Switch owners looking for the premium Joy-Con charging grip model will need to purchase one separately starting at $29.99. The peripheral includes a USB charging cable enabling users to plug in and charge while playing a game. Without a premium charge grip, however, the Joy-Con controllers will also charge while directly attached to the Switch itself.
It’s also worth noting that the premium Joy-Con charging grip features a shinier and more translucent looking black plastic. The base version included with the system is much less flashy sporting a dull matte black version.
Battery life has been a source of contention among the fanbase as Nintendo has revealed that the console itself can last anywhere from 2 and a half to 6 hours while outside of the dock and depending on the gameplay. The Joy-Con controllers on the other hand can last up to 20 hours, though Nintendo has confirmed that this number will decrease with continued use over time. Each Joy-Con controller can take up to 3 and a half hours to fully charge, regardless if the device is attached to the Switch or the premium charging grip accessory.
Even with a few lingering concerns from fans including only five games at launch and a sparser than expected 2017 release schedule, it has not stopped the console from selling out at nearly every online store. The situation is very reminiscent of what happened a few months ago with the NES Classic console, though Nintendo says that while it can’t anticipate demand, the company will be well-positioned from the supply side of things.
Is this news somewhat disappointing or are you okay with charging the Joy-Cons through the Switch? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Nintendo Switch launches on March 3, 2017.
