Joy-Con Test

L / R Controllers
Multi-Player
Bluetooth Required

Switch Joy-Con

Connect controller (P1)...

Switch mode to test SL/SR
Idle
Pressed
Analog SticksLinearity, Drift & Circularity
Left Stick+0.00, +0.00Err:——
Right Stick+0.00, +0.00Err:——
Raw DataGamepad API Output
Axes
0
+0.00
1
+0.00
2
+0.00
3
+0.00
Buttons
0
1
2
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No Controller Detected
Vibration TestDual Motor

Joy-Con: The Most Innovative Split Controller

Detachable design, HD Rumble, IR camera—how Nintendo redefined gaming interaction

Three Forms, One Controller

Handheld mode: Attached to Switch sides; Split mode: One in each hand; Horizontal mode: SL/SR become a full controller. One device, three ways to play.

HD Rumble

Uses linear resonant actuators to simulate ice cubes rolling in a glass, marbles colliding, even counting balls in a cup. The pinnacle of haptic feedback.

IR Motion Camera

The infrared sensor at the bottom of the right Joy-Con can recognize gestures, measure distance, and even scan simple shapes (like the fishing rod in Nintendo Labo).

Known Issue

Joy-Con Drift: A Global Problem

Joy-Con drift occurs when the analog stick registers movement without being touched. Your character moves on its own—almost every Switch player's nightmare.

Cause

Joy-Con uses low-quality stick modules with carbon film contacts that wear easily. Even new controllers can develop drift within months. This is a design flaw, not user error.

Temporary Solutions

  • • Calibrate stick: System Settings → Controllers → Calibrate Control Sticks
  • • Clean contacts: Use isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab under the stick cap
  • • Increase deadzone: Some games allow adjusting deadzone settings

Permanent Fix

Replace the stick module ($5-15 DIY kits available). Or contact Nintendo support—free repair in most regions regardless of warranty status.

Stick Drift Detection

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything about Joy-Con controllers

QIs the Joy-Con Grip worth buying?

If you prefer traditional controller grip, just buy a Pro Controller. The Grip only holds two Joy-Cons together—it doesn't solve issues like small sticks and short battery life.

QWhy does the left Joy-Con disconnect more often?

The left Joy-Con's Bluetooth antenna placement has a design flaw that makes it easy to block with your palm. Solutions: use wired connection, reduce obstacles between controller and console, or update system firmware (Nintendo has released fixes).

QCan I use third-party Joy-Cons?

Yes, but most don't support HD Rumble, IR camera, or NFC (amiibo). For casual gaming, third-party Joy-Cons are cheaper and work fine.

QSL/SR buttons don't work in sideways mode?

Could be poor contact or damaged buttons. Check if Joy-Con firmware is up to date (Settings → Controllers → Update Controllers). If physically damaged, you'll need to replace the button ribbon cable.

Save Your Joy-Con: Drift Diagnostic Expert

"Joy-Con drift" is every Switch player's nightmare. Without turning on your console, you can precisely check stick offset values directly in your PC browser to determine if cleaning or repair is needed. Also test for damaged SL/SR ribbon cables.

How to Connect Joy-Con to PC?

1

Hold Pairing Button

On the Joy-Con rail side, there's a small round black button. Hold it until the LEDs start scrolling/flashing.

2

Bluetooth Search

Open your PC's Bluetooth settings and add a device. You'll see Joy-Con (L) or Joy-Con (R), click to connect.

3

Activate Controller

After connecting, LEDs may still flash. Press any button (like L/R) and the browser page will detect it.

Stick Drift Diagnosis

Joy-Con stick drift is usually caused by worn carbon contact points inside the module.

Normal: At rest, the dot stays within the center dashed circle (value < 0.05).
Minor: Occasionally jumps outside center. Try spraying contact cleaner at the stick base.
Severe: Dot constantly moves or won't center. Consider replacing with hall effect sticks.

SL/SR Ribbon Cable Test

This is the second most common Joy-Con issue. The rail ribbon cable's folded design leads to damage from repeated docking, causing SL/SR buttons to fail and LEDs to stop working.

How to Test?

In the visualizer, click the "Horizontal Mode" button in the top right. Then press SL or SR on the rail. If the corresponding button doesn't light up on screen, the ribbon cable may be broken.

Can I Connect Both Joy-Cons?

Yes. Your PC will recognize left and right controllers as two separate devices. In the visualizer card, click the P1 / P2 button in the top right to switch between controllers for testing.