RetroCompass
RetroCompass

8BitDo All-Button Arcade Controller — Pairing

Quick answer

Button combo

(slide mode switch to S)(slide mode switch to S)hold PAIR(3 sec)

Steps

  1. 1Slide the mode switch on the top-left to S (Nintendo Switch / Bluetooth).
  2. 2Hold PAIR for 3 seconds until the Status LED blinks fast.
  3. 3On Nintendo Switch open Controllers → Change Grip/Order.
  4. 4The Status LED turns solid when connected.

LED states

  • Fast blink—In pairing mode, waiting for Nintendo Switch
  • Solid—Connected
Last verified: 2026-06-20Source: support.8bitdo.com

For wireless play on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, set the top-left mode switch to S so the controller uses Bluetooth, then hold PAIR for three seconds until the Status LED blinks quickly. Open Controllers → Change Grip/Order on the console to finish. After the first pairing it reconnects on its own when you power on in the same mode. For Windows use the bundled 2.4G adapter instead, or connect with a USB-C cable to any supported device.

FAQ

Can I pair it to Windows over Bluetooth?
No. Use the included 2.4G wireless adapter for Windows, or connect with a USB-C cable. Bluetooth is used for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.
Where is the PAIR button?
PAIR is on the controller; hold it for 3 seconds to start pairing after setting the mode switch to S.

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