The Nintendo Switch is the latest home console release and the first you can take with you on the go. Being a tablet in its true form, it’s no surprise the Switch can’t perform on par with current gen consoles like the PS4 and Xbox One. However, with Nintendo pushing for technological innovation and ease-of-use with their new console, you’d think they’d think to put in a simple headphone jack.
First of all, I know there’s a headphone jack on the actual Switch tablet. But what if I want to play on my TV while my boyfriend takes a nap? What about people who have to play exclusively with headphones due to their circumstances? They’re given few options.
Both other current gen consoles, the PS4 and Xbox One, have headphone jack in all of their controllers. It’s common sense, or so you would think. Nintendo did with their last home console, the Wii U, which had a headphone jack on its game pad.
I get why you can’t use headphones with the Joy-Cons. Sometimes they’re together, sometimes they’re apart. There are desyncing issues to worry about here, people. But the $70 Pro Controller? Come on. If I’m giving up my “nice dinner out” night for a controller, it should at least come with all the basics.
Something super extra puzzling is Bluetooth. The Switch already uses Bluetooth, so why not allow for wireless headphones to be used while playing on a TV?
Maybe with the console’s smartphone app release, we’ll see a way to listen to game audio through it. Or possibly a controller accessory with a headphone jack will makes its way to retail. It’s Nintendo, who knows.
For now, if you want to use headphones with your Switch while playing on a TV, your best option is to get a Bluetooth audio transmitter like this one. Or get, like, a really really long aux cable.
12 comments
There’s the quirky unique charm of Nintendo, but this decision is frustratingly stubborn, short sighted and unfriendly to the consumer.
I’d choose a headphone jack over HD rumble , infra red gimmicks , or awful gyro anyday
For my system, all my TV audio gets routed to my stereo system. Which has bluetooth headphone support. Anything on my TV can be heard through the headphones that way.
If I am mobile on the Switch, there’s a headphone jack available. For wired headphones, so kind of strange.
That’s a nice setup, but a more expensive solution than a headphone jack. Although I’m sure all the other gimmicks on the joy-con are more expensive than a headphone jack as well.
Short answer is, they don’t know how to make physical products. Look at the Switch, they made so many mistakes. Plastic screen, plastic empty dock that does nothing, 3 hr battery life, charger port is on bottom, kickstand cant change position for better angles, no wifi receiver built in, so on and so fourth.
I like the concept, but agree the execution had a few mis-fires. If they release a Switch 2.0 addressing these problems (and packed in with Mario Odyssey!) I’ll jump on board.
I would as well but I need that price to drop so badly. $300 doesn’t sound bad until you add everything up and realize, its more like $500-$600. I just hope they make some sort of second version, so I can buy the first for really cheap, used from somebody. I never want it to leave home, so the only money, I’ll spend is on games a Pro Controller.
Good point, my wishlist bundle for Switch 2.0 would also include a pro controller and a controller grip that charges. Basically any of the accessories that Switch owners felt necessary to purchase day one.
I often jump in later on a console and buy a fantastic bundle used. My Wii U bundle was a legendary deal coming with 10 games, and enough wii motes with classic controllers to host any multiplayer party.
Wow, sounds like you have a first world problem. lol
You could make that comment on every single gaming/movie/tv/comic/entertainment/electronic/ or other luxury item article. This site is about discussing games for entertainment and it’s value to the consumer.
The case is that the new generation of gamers are spoiled, or maybe I’m just an OG Gamer. I love my Switch Pro Controller. I really don’t see how not having a headphone jack on my controller is going to affect my gaming. I don’t care for a headphone jack on my controller because I’m all about the games. The Switch is not going anywhere. Maybe you should post a positive article, but that’s my opinion.
If we’re talking OG, my Sega Genesis had a headphone jack on the console and I loved it. I find headphones more immersive and often provide better sound quality than stock tv speakers.
Headphones let me block out busy street noise, vacuums, lawnmowers, my girlfriend’s annoying shows. They also let me fully experience the game when my girlfriend sleeps in the room adjacent to my game room.
It’s all about the games.
Also, I’m sure Mischa will agree with you that the Switch isn’t going anywhere. She snagged hers day 1 and loves it
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHGy1Y6yaIU&t=59s
Here are the positive articles you requested
https://www.a90skid.com/nintendo-switch-accessories-might-not-know-definitely-need/
https://www.a90skid.com/rewarding-aspect-breath-wild/
https://www.a90skid.com/biggest-news-nintendo-direct/
Oh, and chatting online while playing! Even when not playing the same game I love plugging in earbuds with a microphone to talk to my cousin on the other side of the country or friends in other countries.