Chosen Solution
As the title says, the pro controller right analog stick is registering some slight drift in game even though the stick itself is in the neutral position. It doesn’t happen all the time, and usually stops when I correct it, but it is definitely annoying and I’d like to fix it if possible. Anyone else have this issue? Thanks in advance!
For anyone else wondering, I was able to fix this by using the control stick calibration tool in the Nintendo Switch settings menu. I got no more drift after doing so. UPDATE: This fix only worked temporarily. I’ve since ordered a replacement analog stick from the ifixit shop, and will be replacing it soon. UPDATE 2: Took me far longer to get around to replacing the sticks than I expected, but I finally got it done! Part of the reason it took so long is that desoldering the original stick was a nightmare with my normal soldering iron, and I gave up after my initial attempt. Within the last few months I decided that for this and other projects it was worth investing in a Hakko desoldering gun. If you intend to solder and desolder more than just occasionally, I can’t recommend this tool enough. I spent hours trying to desolder the analog stick, and failed. The desoldering gun got it done in minutes. That said, it’s an expensive tool, so if you don’t make a habit of soldering, you’re better off taking the controller and the part to a repair shop and paying them to do it. UPDATE 3: I am trying to recalibrate the sticks after the replacement, but while they are working, they cannot reach far enough in certain directions to register with the calibration tool. I am looking into why this is and how to fix it and will update when I have an answer.
Here is how to rest the controller to zero the left and right stick: https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com… Try it a few times, turn off the system and try it again, then turn on the system, let it load to the menu, and try again If that doessn’t work, i can think of two options, disconnect the battery inside for short time, then repeat the process. Finally, i had the same problem with my wii U Main (With the screen) controller, and the controller part inside had to be replaced from playing Splatoon too much :) - i got it for $10 and did it in 5 minutes. Try exhausting the resetting techniques first. Report back.
The reason the controllers get dusty and start drifting is because Nintendo used Graphite as conductor for the analog stick instead of copper. Graphite is great for electronics tbh, it’s almost the same thing. But turns out that graphite isn’t good with attrition (I know, go figure), meaning that using the analog creates dust inside your controller, that messes up the position sensor. It’s pure and simple design failure. The dust isn’t coming from outside, if anyone was wondering…
Can we file a lawsuit for pro controller too?
It’s a really big issue all four of my joycons went back to Nintendo a month ago due to drift of the analogue sticks Nintendo replaced two and repaired two. They just made it back before Xmas after having them 3-4 weeks! After a week two are already drifting again! Its a major issue and if I’d know I would have bought my kids another console! In talks again with Nintendo now to try and get a PROPER solution!
“Drifting” is a problem with both the original JoyCon controllers, and the Nintendo Pro Controller. I have experienced both and found that calibrating, updating the system, re-syncing the controllers…do not help. I am convinced it is simply a design flaw. Whatever the case, a controller that costs over $60.00 should last longer than a month with normal use.
It can’t be the build quality of the devices because the sunwaytek sg-n30 wireless controller not made by Nintendo also does the exact same thing. Right analog stick drift. Usually if I disconnect the controller and re-pair it it works for a while. It has to be something in the switch software that causes it. It’s just too coincidental that a third party controller (only two weeks old at that) would present the exact same issue. ,
Reading all of this just has me realise Nintendo will go down as the next most disappointing video game company. They’re finally gonna be there with Atari and Sega. Microsoft and Sony will wipe them out. Goodbye Nintendo…
I got a fix, if you pull on your joy con little bit, then if u blow really hard the dust flows out and it is fixed.
I fixed my drift (verified in calibration screen) by taking out the board from the controller, using an electric airblower on the offending joystick with the thumbpad off, then applying a tiny dab of super lube to the rod (see purple arrow)
