How to Pair and Use the 8BitDo G Bros. Adapter for Switch and PC

Quick Answer

To pair the 8BitDo G Bros. Adapter, plug it into your Switch dock or PC, put the adapter into pairing mode, then put your controller into pairing mode. The adapter supports a wide range of Bluetooth controllers, including the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C Wireless Controller and the Retro-Bit Tribute64 V2. Follow the steps below for detailed instructions and troubleshooting.

If you want to use your favorite retro or modern controller wirelessly on Switch or PC, the 8BitDo G Bros. Adapter is a simple solution. This compact dongle lets you connect Bluetooth controllers that might otherwise not work with your console or computer. Whether you're playing on a Switch in docked mode or at your desk on PC, the setup process is straightforward once you know the steps.

In this guide, we'll walk you through pairing the G Bros. Adapter with both Switch and PC, explain how to switch between modes, and offer troubleshooting tips for common issues like connection drops and input lag. We'll also highlight a few compatible controllers from our store that work well with this adapter.

What You Need Before You Start

Before you begin, make sure you have the 8BitDo G Bros. Adapter, a compatible Bluetooth controller, and either a Nintendo Switch (docked) or a PC with a USB port. The adapter works with a wide range of controllers, including the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C Wireless Controller, the Retro-Bit Tribute64 V2, and the 8BitDo Lite 2 BT Gamepad. If you're using a controller that connects via a USB receiver, you may need to remove that receiver and use Bluetooth directly.

It's also important to check that your controller's firmware is up to date. Many modern controllers, including 8BitDo models, receive firmware updates that improve compatibility and performance. You can usually update firmware via the manufacturer's software on PC or mobile. Keeping firmware current can prevent pairing issues and improve input latency.

• Ensure your controller is fully charged before pairing.
• If your controller has a mode switch (like the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C), set it to the correct mode for Bluetooth (not 2.4G or wired).
• Keep the adapter and controller within 3 feet during setup to avoid interference.

Pairing the G Bros. Adapter with Nintendo Switch

To use the G Bros. Adapter with a Nintendo Switch, first make sure the Switch is docked and powered on. Plug the adapter into one of the USB ports on the dock. The adapter's LED should light up, indicating it has power. Next, press the pairing button on the adapter (usually a small button on the side) to enter pairing mode. The LED will start blinking rapidly.

Now, put your controller into pairing mode. For most Bluetooth controllers, this means holding the pairing button until the LED blinks. For example, on the 8BitDo Lite 2 BT Gamepad, hold the pairing button until the LED flashes. On the Retro-Bit Tribute64 V2, you may need to hold the sync button. Once the controller's LED stops blinking and stays solid, the connection is established. The Switch will recognize the adapter as a wired controller, so no additional setup is needed in the system settings.

• If the connection fails, turn off the controller and repeat the process, making sure the adapter is in pairing mode.
• Some controllers may require you to re-pair after switching between devices—this is normal.

Pairing the G Bros. Adapter with PC

On PC, the process is similar. Plug the G Bros. Adapter into a USB port on your computer. Windows should automatically recognize it as a game controller. Press the pairing button on the adapter to enter pairing mode, then put your controller into pairing mode. Once connected, the adapter will appear as a standard XInput controller, meaning it should work with most PC games without additional drivers.

If you're using a controller that supports multiple connection modes, like the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C Wireless Controller, make sure it's set to Bluetooth mode. On the Ultimate 2C, you can switch between 2.4G and Bluetooth using the mode switch. For PC, you might prefer the 2.4G connection for lower latency, but the G Bros. Adapter uses Bluetooth, so you'll need to use Bluetooth mode. If you experience input lag, check that your Bluetooth drivers are up to date and try moving the adapter to a USB port closer to your controller.

• For best performance, use a USB 2.0 port—some USB 3.0 ports can cause interference with Bluetooth.
• If the controller doesn't connect, try unpairing it from other devices first.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your controller won't pair, the most common cause is that the controller is still paired to another device. On most controllers, you can clear the pairing list by holding the pairing button for a longer period (often 5-10 seconds). Refer to your controller's manual for specific instructions. Another common issue is that the adapter is not in pairing mode—make sure the LED is blinking before you try to pair.

If you experience connection drops during gameplay, check for wireless interference from other devices like Wi-Fi routers or other Bluetooth peripherals. Moving the adapter to a different USB port can help. Also, ensure your controller's battery is charged—low battery can cause intermittent disconnects. If you're using a controller with a USB receiver (like the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C's 2.4G receiver), remove the receiver and use Bluetooth instead, as the receiver can interfere with the adapter's signal.

• Restart the adapter by unplugging and plugging it back in.
• Update your controller's firmware via the manufacturer's software.
• If all else fails, try pairing a different controller to isolate the issue.

Step-by-Step Pairing Checklist

1. Plug in the adapter: Connect the G Bros. Adapter to a USB port on your Switch dock or PC. Wait for the LED to light up. Checkpoint: The LED should be solid or slowly blinking—if not, try a different USB port.
2. Enter pairing mode on the adapter: Press the pairing button on the adapter until the LED starts blinking rapidly. This indicates the adapter is discoverable. Common mistake: Forgetting to press the pairing button—the adapter won't be discoverable otherwise.
3. Put your controller into pairing mode: Hold the pairing button on your controller until its LED blinks. For 8BitDo controllers, this is usually the small button near the USB port. For other brands, refer to the manual. Checkpoint: The controller's LED should be blinking—if it's solid, it's already connected to another device.
4. Wait for the connection: After a few seconds, the adapter's LED should stop blinking and stay solid, indicating a successful connection. The controller's LED should also become solid. If the connection fails, turn off both devices and repeat steps 2 and 3.
5. Test the controller in game: Open a game or the system settings to verify that all buttons and joysticks respond correctly. On Switch, you can check in System Settings > Controllers and Sensors. On PC, use the Game Controllers panel in Windows. Checkpoint: If buttons are swapped or unresponsive, your controller may need a different input mode—check the controller's mode switch.

Compatible Controllers from Our Store

• 8BitDo Ultimate 2C Wireless Controller - Purple: Redesigned from the Ultimate C Series for enhanced tactility and responsiveness. Compatible with Windows and Android. Features a refined D-pad and bumpers, extra bumpers (R4 and L4), 1000Hz polling rate (for 2.4G and wired connection), Hall Effect triggers and joysticks, mode switch button, custom button mapping without using software, turbo function, and rumble. This controller works well with the G Bros. Adapter on PC, offering low-latency input and customizable buttons. Its Hall Effect joysticks are also more durable than traditional potentiometer sticks, making it a solid choice for long gaming sessions.
• Retro-Bit Tribute64 V2 2.4G Wireless Controller for N64/Switch/USB - Grey: Part of Retro-Bit's Platinum Series, designed for classic retro gaming consoles. Works on N64 and USB-enabled devices. Features a high-quality analog stick, wide ergonomic design, and ample button layout. If you want to use an N64-style controller on Switch or PC, this controller pairs with the G Bros. Adapter via Bluetooth (in USB mode) and gives you that classic feel without needing the original console. Its ergonomic design also improves comfort during long play sessions.

Pairing the 8BitDo G Bros. Adapter with Switch or PC is a straightforward process that opens up a world of controller options. By following the steps above and keeping troubleshooting tips in mind, you'll be gaming wirelessly in no time. If you're looking for a compatible controller, consider the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C or the Retro-Bit Tribute64 V2 available at 8BitMods.