GearCheckHow to test a Switch Pro Controller
- Connect with a USB-C data cable or Bluetooth (hold the sync button until the lights scroll).
- Press any button so the browser shows the controller.
- Press every button: A, B, X, Y, L, R, ZL, ZR, −, +, Home, Capture and the D-pad.
- Rotate both sticks around their edges and click them in.
- Run the drift check with your hands off the controller.
Testing for drift on Nintendo controllers
Joy-Con drift is famous, and Pro Controllers can drift too as they age. The drift check measures how far each stick sits from the centre when untouched. On the Switch itself you can also go to System Settings → Controllers and Sensors → Calibrate Control Sticks, which often fixes mild drift. If calibration doesn't help, cleaning under the stick or a replacement stick module is the next step.
What's different about Nintendo controllers
- Swapped face buttons: Nintendo's A is on the right and B at the bottom. Games on PC may show Xbox prompts, so “press A” can mean the bottom button.
- Digital triggers: ZL and ZR are on/off, so the trigger bars only show 0% or 100%.
- Extra buttons: Capture is reported as an extra button, and Home as the guide button.
- Motion controls and NFC work on the Switch but aren't available to websites.
Using a Pro Controller on PC
Steam has built-in Switch Pro Controller support with button-layout options, so you can choose whether games see Nintendo or Xbox button positions. If a game shows the wrong button, check Steam → Settings → Controller.
Also see the Xbox and PS5 controller tests, or the general gamepad tester.
Frequently asked questions
How do I connect a Switch Pro Controller to a PC?
Use a USB-C data cable, or pair by Bluetooth: hold the small sync button on top of the controller until the player lights scroll, then add “Pro Controller” in your computer’s Bluetooth settings. Chrome and Edge recognise it with the standard layout.
Why are A and B swapped?
Nintendo puts A on the right and B at the bottom, the opposite of Xbox. This tester uses the Nintendo labels, so the bottom button is B and the right button is A, matching what is printed on your controller.
Are the Switch Pro Controller triggers analog?
No. ZL and ZR are digital: they read either 0% or 100%, never in between. That is normal for Nintendo controllers and not a fault.
Can I test Joy-Cons too?
Yes. Pair each Joy-Con by Bluetooth (hold the sync button on the rail side). Chrome may show them as two separate controllers, or combine them into one; either way you can test every button and stick.
Does vibration work?
Support for the Pro Controller’s HD Rumble in browsers is limited. Press Test vibration to try; if nothing happens, it is a browser limitation rather than a fault in the controller.