Nintendo Switch: How to Charge the Console With a Mobile Charger

Mobile Charger – Nintendo Switch

The Nintendo Switch is the new home console/handheld hybrid that allows players to take a full home gaming experience with them on the go. It can be played in tabletop mode with controllers as if it were a little TV, or like a Game Boy as you enjoy a cab ride or a trip on a plane. Of course, you’ll need to make sure to keep it charged.

The battery life while mobile ranges from 2.5 to 6.5 hours depending on what kind of game you’re playing, which is in line with other premium handhelds. Games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild will have you on the lower end of the spectrum, while smaller, indie titles may let you eek out the full 6.5 hours. Either way, if you’re on a long trip – say, from New York City to Los Angeles – you’re going to need more juice.

When you’re not near a wall outlet, you can actually use a mobile battery charger, like the type you’d normally use for your cellphone and/or tablet, to charge the Nintendo Switch. Two things are required for this:

• The mobile charger (sometimes referred to as a power bank) must have an output of 5v – 15v
• You need a USB-C cable.

If you have both, just make sure that the mobile charger is… well, charged. A full charge is best, but at least half will recharge a portion of the Nintendo Switch’s battery. Then connect it using the USB-C cable. That’s all there is to it.

Do note that it will charge better if you’re not actively using the Switch, so perhaps bring along your 3DS to take a short break.