Nintendo Switch left Joy-Con disconnects frequently. Fix?

I have exactly same issue. Left JoyCon, lag most of the time, sometimes disconnects. Try to sit close to the console (like 1 meter) - this seems to helps a little but even then it happens every now and then.

Otherwise you might want to consider exchanging to a different Switch console in the shop.


This is a known design flaw which is only effecting early models of the Switch.

It's something to do with electrical shielding (or something technical). Left Joy Con with and without shielding

First try these steps to make sure you are using the Joy Con correctly

Joy Con Not Responding or Responding Incorrectly When Used Wirelessly

If that didn't work, talk to Nintendo and they will "fix your problem for free" - which means you send in your joy con and they fix it and send it back. This can take up to 2 weeks.

Here are some helpful links for support:

Contact Nintendo Support in America

Contact Nintendo Support in Australia and New Zealand

Contact Nintendo Support in Europe


The Left JoyCon does seem to have some connectivity issues. I sit at least 6' away from my console without any problem. (Probably farther.)

  • Nintendo has said to be sure the JoyCon has line of sight to the console. (Make sure there is nothing between you and the console, like a blanket or table.)
  • They have also released an update to the Switch to help correct this issue. Make sure your Switch is connected to the internet and check for system updates.
  • Finally, Nintendo says it will replace JoyCons if need be. They may have you go through a few troubleshooting steps first.

Nintendo also released a list of devices that might cause signal interference:

  • Cell phones, laptops, tablets, etc.
  • Wireless headsets
  • Wireless printers
  • Microwaves
  • Wireless speakers
  • Cordless phones USB
  • 3.0-compatible devices such as hard drives, thumb drives, LAN adapters, etc.