Some Nintendo Switch 2 owners report frequent disconnection issues with their Joy-Con controllers, but have discovered a straightforward solution: simply using the official Nintendo Switch 2 HDMI cable.
Multiple Reddit threads reveal users experiencing random Joy-Con disconnects, sometimes occurring every few minutes. Our tech editor Bo Moore encountered this issue immediately after setting up his new console, facing controller disconnections every few seconds.
Switch 2 Joycons keep disconnecting randomly, anyone else experiencing this? by u/U-Ok-Bro in Switch
The fix proved remarkably simple - using the HDMI cable included with the Nintendo Switch 2 rather than third-party alternatives.
Switch 2 Joycons keep disconnecting randomly, anyone else experiencing this? by u/U-Ok-Bro in Switch
While some might assume older HDMI cables would suffice, the Nintendo Switch 2 requires an "Ultra High Speed" HDMI cable - a specification that differs from the original Switch's included cable. The technical difference explains why using legacy cables causes connectivity problems.
How to fix frequent controller disconnects on Switch 2: Use the official HDMI cable by u/river_rage in NintendoSwitch
Our testing confirmed that switching to the proper HDMI cable resolves the issue completely. Nintendo's official support documentation reinforces this solution:
- Always use an "Ultra High Speed" HDMI cable (clearly labeled on the cable itself)
- The original Nintendo Switch HDMI cable doesn't meet this specification
- Third-party cables must explicitly state "Ultra High Speed" compatibility
This serves as an important reminder about using manufacturer-recommended accessories. For users needing replacement cables or additional gaming peripherals, we recommend consulting our comprehensive guides to Nintendo Switch 2 controllers and audio accessories.
