If your Nintendo Switch isn’t turning on, you’re not alone. This is a common problem with the console, and there are a few things you can do to try to fix it. It’s like someone hit “pause” on your enjoyment when your Nintendo Switch won’t turn on. After all, nothing should hold you back from enjoying the best game of Nintendo. Here are some simple solutions if your Nintendo Switch is acting up or not charging properly, so it won’t turn on.
1. Check the Nintendo Switch AC adapter and battery pack or switch outlets
The first thing you should do if your Nintendo Switch won’t turn on is to check the AC (alternating current) adapter. The issue may lie with the adapter, not the console. Start by ensuring that the AC adapter is plugged into a wall outlet and that the cable is firmly inserted into the console. If you’re utilizing a portable battery pack to charge your Nintendo Switch, ensure it’s turned on and properly connected to the console.
You can also try setting the console up with another battery pack or power source. Furthermore, the solution could be as simple as switching the power outlet you’re using. If your Switch still doesn’t turn on, try plugging it into a different outlet. Maybe your outlet is loose, or the electrical current is off.
2. Check if the Joy-Con controllers are properly attached
If your Nintendo Switch doesn’t turn on, it could be because the Joy-Con controllers are not correctly connected to the console. Make sure that both Joy-Con controllers are securely snapped onto the console. If they’re not, the console may not power on.
3. Inspect whether the SD card is inserted properly
An improperly inserted SD card can prevent the console from powering on. To check if you inserted the SD card correctly, remove it from the console and reinsert it. Make sure you insert it until you hear a click, and that it’s compatible.
4. Press and hold the POWER Button on Nintendo Switch for a bit
Try holding down the POWER Button for at least twelve (12) seconds to reset the console. This will often fix any minor issues with the Switch. If this doesn’t work, try plugging the Switch into its dock and then pressing the POWER Button.
5. Inspect the Nintendo Switch console’s battery
One of the most common issues is the depletion of the Nintendo Switch’s battery. This can happen if you’ve left it in Sleep Mode for too long or have been playing many games on it and haven’t given it a chance to recharge. There are two ways to check the battery level:
- The first way is to look at the Home screen. The console will display how much battery life it has left in the top-right corner. If it’s running low, plug it in and let it charge for a bit before trying to turn it on again.
- The second way is to press and hold the Power Button for 3 seconds. This will bring up the Quick Menu, which will show you the current battery level and the option to put the console into Sleep Mode.
If the battery is completely depleted, it will take a few minutes to start charging. You can tell it’s charging because the LED lights on the bottom of the Switch will turn orange. Once it has some charge, try turning on the console again by pressing and holding the POWER Button for 2 seconds.
6. Try a different HDMI port
If you’re using the Switch in TV Mode, the issue may be with the HDMI port. Try unplugging the Switch from the current HDMI port and plugging it into a different one. If you have multiple HDMI ports, try them all. You can also try plugging the Switch into an additional TV altogether.
7. Perform a hard reset of Nintendo Switch
If none of the above solutions work, you may need to perform a hard reset on your Nintendo Switch. This will delete any unsaved data, so make sure to save your progress before doing this. To perform a hard reset, follow these steps:
- Turn off the console by holding down the POWER Button for 3 seconds.
- Press and hold the VOLUME + Button and the POWER Button simultaneously for 5 seconds.
- Release both buttons when the Nintendo Switch logo appears on the screen.
- After the hard reset is complete, try turning on the console again by pressing and holding the POWER Button for 2 seconds.
8. Charge your Nintendo Switch handheld console
It’s possible that your Switch just needs more time to charge. If it’s been plugged in for less than 3 hours, try keeping it on the charger longer. It could take up to 3 hours for the Switch to fully charge. Try turning it on again afterward.
9. Contact Nintendo Customer Service
At this point, you must reach out to Nintendo Customer Support or the store you bought it from. They can help you troubleshoot the issue and determine if there is a more severe problem. If the handheld console is under warranty, you can also get it repaired or replaced.