3 ways to fix a Nintendo Switch that isn't charging properly

When your Nintendo Switch is not charging, there are a few things you can try to fix it.Hollis Johnson/Business Insider

• If your Nintendo Switch isn't charging, wait a few minutes - a fully drained console takes time to turn on.
• A Nintendo Switch battery takes about 3.5 hours to fully charge and should last 3 to 6 hours.
• If you've charged your Switch for up to a day and it still won't turn on, check your AC adapter.

There's a lot to love about the Nintendo Switch, but its relatively short battery life isn't on that list.

As a mobile device, the Switch is lacking when it comes to lasting power. You can use the console in handheld orientation for up to six hours, but most games are so resource-intensive that you won't reach that point.

If it seems like your Nintendo Switch is not charging, there are three main ways to troubleshoot the issue.

First, make sure you're giving your Switch enough time to charge after the battery died, then, if waiting doesn't work, check the AC adapter to ensure it's working properly by plugging it in and out of the device and outlet. Finally, if it's still not charging, try force resetting your Nintendo Switch.

Here's a breakdown of each method.