Use Nintendo Switch 2 HDMI Cable to Avoid Joy-Con Issues

Some Nintendo Switch 2 owners are experiencing repeated disconnections with their Joy-Con controllers. Interestingly, the solution appears remarkably simple – using the official Nintendo Switch 2 HDMI cable resolves the issue.

Widespread Joy-Con Connectivity Issues Reported

Numerous Reddit posts detail cases where Switch 2 Joy-Cons disconnect randomly, sometimes every few minutes. Our tech editor Bo Moore encountered this problem immediately after unboxing his new console, experiencing Joy-Con disconnections every few seconds.

Switch 2 Joycons keep disconnecting randomly, anyone else experiencing this? by u/U-Ok-Bro in Switch

The Surprising Solution

The fix appears straightforward: simply use the HDMI cable included with the Nintendo Switch 2 rather than third-party alternatives or cables from the original Switch.

Switch 2 Joycons keep disconnecting randomly, anyone else experiencing this? by u/U-Ok-Bro in Switch

Understanding the Technical Reason

While many users assumed their original Switch HDMI cables would work fine, this isn't the case. The Switch 2 requires "Ultra High Speed" HDMI cables (included with the console), while the original Switch used standard HDMI cables. Any Ultra High Speed HDMI cable should work if you need a replacement.

How to fix frequent controller disconnects on Switch 2: Use the official HDMI cable by u/river_rage in NintendoSwitch

Official Recommendations

Our testing confirms this solution works, as does Nintendo's official support documentation:

• Always use an "Ultra High Speed" HDMI cable for Switch 2
• The included HDMI cable meets this specification
• Original Switch HDMI cables don't meet Ultra High Speed standards
• Replacement cables must clearly indicate "Ultra High Speed"

While using included accessories is generally advisable, this situation serves as an important reminder about the Switch 2's specific HDMI requirements.

For other essential Switch 2 accessories, check out our guides to the best controllers, headsets, and additional peripherals available.