Nintendo Switch – Headset Support

How to set up your headset for in-game audio, whether you own a Nintendo Switch 2, Switch/OLED, or Switch Lite, getting your headset ready for gaming is quick — but there are a few settings and in-game options you’ll want to know about to make sure you’re hearing (and speaking) at your best.

1. Connect Your Headset

Nintendo Switch supports wired, USB, and Bluetooth headsets.

• Wired (3.5mm jack) – Plug your headset into the audio port at the top of the console (handheld mode) or into the headphone port on your controller (if supported).

• USB – Docked mode: plug into the dock’s USB port. Handheld mode: use a USB-C to USB adapter.

• Bluetooth – From System Settings, scroll to Bluetooth Audio, select Pair Device, and follow your headset’s pairing instructions.

  
  

2. Check Console Audio Settings

Before starting your game, make sure your audio is set correctly:

• Volume – Adjust using the physical volume buttons on the console.

• Mute Mic – If your headset has a mic mute button or switch, make sure it’s in the right position.

• Bluetooth Limitations – Bluetooth headsets won’t support voice chat directly through the console. You’ll need the Nintendo Switch Online app for that.

  
  

3. In-Game Audio Settings

Most Switch games let you tweak audio in their own menus. Look for Settings, Options, or Audio when you pause the game. Common things to adjust:

• Master Volume – Overall game sound level.

• Voice Chat – For supported games, turn voice chat on or off.

• Mic Sensitivity – Adjust so your teammates hear you clearly without background noise.

• Game vs. Chat Balance – In some multiplayer games, you can control how loud the game is compared to your chat audio.

  
  

4. Voice Chat on Nintendo Switch

Here’s where it’s a little different from other consoles:

• Many Nintendo games (like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe) don’t have built-in voice chat.

• Instead, Nintendo uses the Nintendo Switch Online smartphone app for chat in supported games (e.g. Splatoon 3, Animal Crossing: New Horizons).

• Simply plug your headset into your phone or use a splitter so you can hear game audio from your Switch and chat audio from your phone.

  
  

5. Quick Tips for the Best Experience

• Update your Switch – Go to System Settings > System > System Update to make sure you have the latest features and Bluetooth support.

• Test Before Playing – Hop into a training mode or friend lobby to check your mic and sound levels before the real match.

• Keep It Charged – If using a wireless or battery-powered headset, make sure it’s charged before a long session.

  
  

✅ In short: Plug in your headset, check your system volume, adjust in-game audio settings, and for multiplayer voice chat, remember that you may need the Nintendo Switch Online app. Once that’s done, you’re ready to dive in and play with crystal-clear audio.