How to Use Nintendo Switch With a Keyboard and Mouse

You can connect a USB mouse and keyboard with the Switch

By Robert Earl Wells III
Updated on April 17, 2022

What to Know

  • Plug any USB keyboard into a USB port on the Switch dock. The Switch should detect the keyboard right away.
  • When the Switch is in handheld mode, you can connect a keyboard using a USB to USB-C converter.
  • You can also use a wireless keyboard by plugging a Bluetooth dongle into the Switch dock.

This article explains what you need to use the Nintendo Switch with a USB keyboard and mouse. This information applies to the Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch Lite.

What You Need to Play Games With a Keyboard and Mouse on the Switch

If you enjoy playing games like Fortnite on Nintendo Switch, but you prefer the controller layout of a PC, you're in luck.

To play games using a keyboard and mouse on the Switch, you might need to purchase some extra peripherals.

A collection of game controllers, keyboards, mice, and headsets

If you already have a gaming keyboard you like, there are also USB adapters for gaming consoles.

Nintendo Switch Keyboard and Mouse Support

Most USB keyboards are compatible with the Nintendo Switch, but you can't play games with a regular keyboard. You can, however, use it to input passwords and other text. Many people find a physical keyboard is far more convenient than the Switch's on-screen keyboard for things like adding comments to screenshots you upload to social media. Plugging a standard gaming mouse into the Switch will have no effect.

Some companies make keyboards exclusively for the Switch, but the only difference is that they have slots on the sides to hold the Joy-Con controllers. However, since you still can't play games with the keyboard itself, there's no reason to purchase a special keyboard just for the Switch.

How to Connect a Keyboard to the Nintendo Switch

You can plug any USB keyboard into one of the USB ports on the Switch dock. The Switch should detect the keyboard right away. No additional setup is necessary.

You can plug any USB keyboard into one of the USB ports on the Switch dock.

It is also possible to use a keyboard while the Switch is in handheld mode with the assistance of a USB to USB-C converter. You can even use a wireless keyboard with the Switch. Just plug a Bluetooth dongle into the Switch dock, and it should automatically work.

FAQ
  • Can I use a keyboard and mouse in Fortnite on Nintendo Switch?

    You can play Fornite and other games on Switch with a specialty keyboard like the Gamesir VX AimSwitch.

  • How do I change the keyboard controls on Nintendo Switch?

    You can remap the Switch controller buttons by going to System Settings > Controllers and Sensors > Change Button Mapping. This will also change the corresponding controls on the keyboard.

  • How do I connect Bluetooth headphones to my Nintendo Switch?

    To connect wireless headphones to a Switch, put the device into pairing mode, then go to System Settings > Bluetooth Audio > Pair Device. Choose your headset from the list of available devices.

  • How do I connect my Nintendo Switch to my laptop?

    To connect a Nintendo Switch to a laptop, you need an HDMI capture card like the Elgato HD60. Alternatively, many Switch games have a PC version that you can buy.

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