Nintendo Switch: How To Turn Off, Sleep And Other Power Basics [GUIDE]

Nintendo Switch release day has arrived, and gamers are still finding their way around the hybrid console’s basic features. Sleep mode is easy enough to access, but how do you turn the device entirely off? We have your answer.

HOW DO I TURN OFF NINTENDO SWITCH?

Turning off a Nintendo Switch is similar to what you would do on a tablet or smartphone. Just hold down the small power button on the system’s top left and you’ll see a menu that offers Sleep Mode or Power Options. Select Power Options and choose Turn Off. If you need a visual guide, check out the quick video below.

As far as we know there is no way to fully power off the Nintendo Switch from the Joy-Con or Pro Controller. It seems you’ll have to get up off the couch if you want to do that.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A FULL TURN OFF VS. SLEEP MODE?

Sleep Mode functions on the Switch much like it does many other electronics. In terms of game console use, it’s essentially an instant pause that can be resumed very quickly at any time. With a full power down, you risk losing any unsaved progress. Sleep mode also allows games and updates to download while you’re not playing.

There are two ways to access Sleep Mode. From the tablet, quickly tap the power button to lock it and tap again to resume. You’ll need to perform a quick verification step to get back into games. You can also access Sleep Mode from a Joy-Con or Pro Controller. Hold down the Home Button for quick access to Sleep Mode, Airplane Mode and brightness settings.

The Nintendo Switch is available now for $299. If you’re having Joy-Con sync issues, be sure to check out solution guide. If you’re still looking for a console, we’ve got a buyer’s guide too.
What do you think of the Nintendo Switch so far? Do you plan on keeping your console fully turned off? Tell us in the comments section!