How to Fix (and Avoid) Nintendo Switch Joy-Con Drift
Nintendo Switch Joy-Con stick drift is a problem that has plagued the platform since its release. Though Nintendo claims to have made changes to newer Joy-Con to mitigate the problem, many people will come across this issue over the course of their console’s lifespan.
What Is Stick Drift?What Causes Stick Drift?Fix 1: Calibrate Your Controller and Dead ZonesFix 2: Use Nintendo's Joy-Con Repair ProgramFix 3: Repair It Yourself with Spare PartsAlternatively, Buy a New SetAvoiding Stick Drift in Future
Stick drift refers to a problem where an analog control stick registers input without being actuated. The stick may drift in a particular direction (for example, to the left), or it may drift in multiple directions depending on the last direction used. Drift may appear suddenly, over time, or seemingly disappear for a while before coming back again.
The Nintendo Switch has a well-documented history with this problem that isn’t necessarily caused by misuse. The Nintendo Switch Pro controller seems to have avoided the issue on a wide-scale basis, unlike Nintendo’s detachable Joy-Con.
You may notice stick drift while playing, but you can also test for the problem using your console’s System Settings > Controllers and Sensors > Calibrate Control Sticks menu. In this menu you’ll be asked to hold a direction on the stick you want to calibrate, then you’ll see a crosshair with either a plus or a dot in it.
If the plus icon isn’t in the center or there’s a dot that seems to move erratically or “lean” in a particular direction, your Joy-Con is exhibiting signs of stick drift.
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The main cause of stick drift of any kind, including controllers from Microsoft and Sony, is wear and
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