Nintendo Switch overheating is one of the common issues for handheld gaming consoles since they are packing so much power in a portable form factor. Same overheating experiences shared by other players on Reddit.
Nintendo Switch Overheating Problem
by u/rosselwilson115 in NintendoSwitch
The main reason why your Nintendo Switch OLED Overheating or Switch Lite Overheating could be because of the long gaming sessions while the console is charging. Other than that, you might experience Nintendo Switch overheating in dock mode since it consumes more power.
To help you resolve this issue, we have written this detailed guide on how to fix Nintendo Switch overheating by following a few easy methods. We will also state a few reasons why your Nintendo Switch keeps overheating to help you avoid this issue in the first place.
Why Does My Nintendo Switch Keeps Overheating?
If you are wondering why my Nintendo Switch is overheating, it is usually caused by the following 6 main reasons:
- Long gaming sessions on Nintendo Switch
- Dust/Junk blocks the Switch ventilation
- Broken/damaged internal fan
- Poorly Ventilated area
- Game not power–optimized
- Internal problems of the Nintendo Switch circuit
Own an OLED Model? Nintendo Switch OLED Not Turning On?
Reason Why Your Nintendo Switch Overheating in Dock Mode
The dock does not have a fan or slots. This means that the heat produced by the Switch and the console heats up the longer you play.
If it hurts to touch your console after playing for a couple of hours, then it may be cause for concern. Otherwise, it is heating to a normal temperature range.
What happens when Nintendo Switch Overheats?
Most of the time, when you play any game, Nintendo Switch makes strange noises, or your Nintendo Switch will overheat on the right side after 30 to 50 minutes of play, and the fans get loud.
Sometimes, it also gets hot when charging on the dock, according to a user on Reddit. This is due to the fan inside your Switch being probably broken.
To fix the Nintendo Switch overheating issue, we have shared some tips below which you can apply on your own without needing any technical assistance:
Tip 1: Place Nintendo Switch in a Well-Ventilated place
There is no incorrect method for storing electronics, as they all generate heat during operation. To ensure normal functioning, it’s crucial to provide adequate airflow. This also applies to the Nintendo Switch, particularly when it’s in docked mode and operating at peak performance.
To manage heat, you can place a fan nearby to provide consistent airflow when the console is in use. Nintendo recommends using the console in an environment with temperatures ranging from 5 to 35°C (41 to 95°F).
Alternatively, you can position the console on elevated surfaces, away from other heat-sensitive devices, to minimize any potential issues related to heat dissipation.
If these recommendations do not resolve the Nintendo Switch overheating in handled mode, we have one more way you can fix the overheating issue.
Read More: How to View or Change Your Friend Code on Nintendo Switch
Tip 2: Use a well-ventilated dock to Fix Nintendo Switch Overheating
Nintendo Switch Overheating in the dock?
The design of the traditional Nintendo Switch Dock is quite flawed in terms of ventilation.
Although ventilator fans are built in to reduce heat and help with air circulation, Nintendo may be more effective in designing a dock with a less closed framework and fixing Nintendo Switch Overheating in the dock.
Probably the Nintendo Switch is getting hot because whenever it is in docked mode, both its faces are not open for airflow.
It’s a good idea to use an alternative dock with no attached design but you can still charge your Nintendo Switch with a USB-C port.
Buy this Dock With a Cooling fan to lower the temperature within seconds!
Moving on to the next tip to fix the Nintendo Switch overheating and won’t turn on.
Tip 3: Take a Break between game sessions
It’s easy to end up with your consoles without a break which leads to Nintendo Switch Overheating and Turning OFF By Itself.
Consistently pushing the console to its limits can negatively impact its health and may be the primary cause of overheating issues.
Using the device for extended periods without allowing it to cool down puts extra strain on the internal components, potentially leading to damage over time.
It’s crucial to take breaks, especially when playing in handheld mode, as the device can become hot enough to cause skin discomfort or even burns. To maintain the longevity and performance of your Nintendo Switch, it’s essential to manage its temperature and usage.
Read More: How To Transfer Data Between the Nintendo Switch and a Computer
Tip 4: Switch Getting Hot While Charging? Disconnect from Power when NOT in use
A full charge for the Nintendo Switch takes about 3 hours, so it’s not necessary to keep it plugged in or powered on when not in use. Adjust the charging time and unplug the device when it’s not being used.
If the Switch becomes hot while charging, consider using the Nintendo Switch Dock charger with a built-in LED indicator.
The LED indicator shows the charging status, allowing you to monitor the process easily. When the Joy-cons and console are properly mounted on the device, the LED indicator will display red during charging and green when fully charged. This helps you keep track of the charging progress and avoid potential overheating issues.
Whiteoak Switch Pro Controller Charger with LED Charging Indicator
Tip 5: Clean Regularly to Fix Nintendo Switch Overheating
Dust usually builds up in the vents and for the best efficiency, they need to be kept clean.
Also, the metal Joy-Con rail could be the reason for the Nintendo Switch overheating so quickly. The rail may collect a lot of dust and debris over time. That’s why you should regularly clean your console’s slider rail.
And here’s a small video that will guide you on this.
You should not allow dust to build upon the vents. If there’s a lot of dust, and you can’t clean it yourself, you can take it to some expert. Otherwise, you can use a cleaning tool such as a vacuum cleaner to remove dust buildup.
You can check this Dust Blower out to keep the dust away.
If you are still facing Nintendo Switch overheating then make sure the console is updated
Tip 6: Keep Your Nintendo Switch Updated
It’s best you make sure that your Nintendo Switch is up to date as sometimes your switch getting hot in dock could be due to some bugs so, new updates can help fix these bugs.
Here is how you can update Nintendo Switch :
- Open the Nintendo Switch
- The HOME menu will open
- Click on the System Setting located in round icons in the Home menu
- A System Settings window will open
- Now scroll down on the left menu
- Select System
- Now Select System Update
- The Nintendo Switch will start updating the software and check if your Nintendo Switch overeating and won’t turn on is fixed or not.
Conclusion
While it is common to experience Nintendo Switch overheating while you are playing games on it, in some cases, it can overheat until it damages itself. You can avoid Nintendo Switch overheating by placing the dock in a well-ventilated place, replacing the built-in fan, or aiming the AC directly while playing. If you want to know more about Nintendo Switch, simply hit the comment to let us know.
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FAQs
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Why is my Switch Overheating so quickly?
Multiple reasons can contribute to Overheating of the Switch and one of the most common reasons is dust getting accumulated in the vents and causing poor ventilation that causes the Switch to Overheating quickly.
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Can heat damage a Nintendo Switch?
Yes, the heat definitely can damage it. Nintendo Switch has its temperature limits and whenever Nintendo Switch Overheats, it usually turns off by itself, but prolonged exposure to heat can damage the internal parts as well.
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Does steam damage Nintendo Switch?
If you are in a place that’s near to kitchen/geyser, steam is inevitable to affect your Nintendo Switch. Moisture can enter your Switch, and affect the internal parts. It can also affect your screen and cause it to get blurry.
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How do I keep my Switch cool?
There are 5 ways you can keep your Nintendo Switch Cool:
1. Use a well-ventilated dock with a fan
2. Take a break between game sessions
3. Clean the Air Vents
4. Ensure the Nintendo Switch Fan is working properly
5. Take breaks between game sessions -
How water-resistant is the Nintendo Switch?
Nintendo Switch is not waterproof at all. It gets almost impossible for a gadget with vents and a fan to be IP68/67 water-resistant. It is not even spill-resistant.
If by any chance, the switch gets in contact with water, then you need to quickly turn off Nintendo Switch instantly, and then take a hairdryer to dry it for some minutes. Leave it turned off for a while and then turn it back on.
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Can I put my Switch in rice?
Rice is used to be considered a fix to dry Electronic Devices.
But, it’s not recommended as rice contains dirt that can get in your device and cause more trouble. A hairdryer and a blower can do a better job.
