How to Set Up a Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch is a hybrid console that allows you to play games on the screen of its base unit, in handheld mode, or attached to a TV. It includes a game cartridge slot, an HDMI port for connecting to your television, USB Type-C and USB ports, as well as a kickstand for the TV dock. It also comes with a set of controller portions that can be detached and used as two separate gamepads.
The console is a huge hit with gamers, becoming the third best-selling system of all time. That’s partly because of its incredibly unique form factor that allows you to easily go from playing on the go to the big screen at home, but it’s also thanks to a solid library of games from Nintendo and some third-party developers.
Whether you’re looking to pick up the original Nintendo Switch or its slightly less expensive, more streamlined cousin, the Nintendo Switch Lite, there are plenty of great deals out there for you to choose from. The Lite model has a smaller, more rounded design and a built-in kickstand to make it easier to use while sitting down. It also comes with a different Joy-Con configuration, though this is more of a cosmetic change than anything else.
Setting up your Nintendo Switch is easy, whichever way you plan to use it. If you’re going to play it on the go, simply attach the Joy-Con and then press the power button to turn it on. You can also plug it into its included dock, which will automatically connect to your TV via HDMI and provide power from the included USB cable. You’ll want to make sure your TV is set to the correct input and that you have an internet connection before starting up.
For a more permanent setup, you’ll need to set up the dock first. You can do this by plugging the HDMI cable into an empty HDMI port on your TV, then connecting the other end of the cable to the Switch’s HDMI port. Once that’s done, slide the switch into the dock and connect it to your TV using its included USB Type-C cable.
After you’re all set up, it’s time to start playing. You’ll likely want to sign up for a Nintendo Account, which will allow you to download and update software updates, buy new games, and keep track of your gaming history and progress. You’ll also need a subscription to Nintendo Switch Online, which will give you access to online multiplayer for some titles and some exclusive perks like cloud saves. There are both individual and family plans for the service, which include a seven-day free trial before payments begin. You’ll need an internet connection to download and install any updates. Fortunately, Nintendo pushes out these updates pretty regularly, so you shouldn’t have much trouble staying current. If you do experience any issues, you can get in touch with Nintendo customer support. Nintendo Switch