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.
