This Could Be The Reason For Your Joy-Con Drift Problem

The Nintendo Switch is one of the best-selling consoles of all time (per Digital Trends). And despite releasing five years ago, big titles, such as the recent "Pokémon Violet and Scarlet," keep the system relevant. However, despite the laundry list of exclusives the console offers, it isn't perfect. Many have criticized the console for its weak performance, among other technical issues. And despite Nintendo releasing an OLED version of the Switch last year, many are still holding out for a Switch 2 to fix some of the console's flaws.

One of the most talked about problems with the Switch is its susceptibility to Joy-Con drift. And rightfully so, as it's a serious issue. Joy-Con drift forces the thumbsticks to sit out of their neutral state, making characters and cursors move without the player touching the stick. This isn't an uncommon issue either, as it's reported that two in five Switch owners have been affected by Joy-Con drift. And those affected are often forced to purchase a new set of Joy-Con to remedy the issue, setting them back $80.

Although many have had their theories about what causes Joy-Con drift, there has been no definitive answer. But that may not be the case anymore. Recently an independent investigation may have uncovered what exactly causes Joy-Con drift, and as it turns out, it isn't gamers' fault.

A recent study by the UK consumer group Which? may have revealed what causes the Nintendo Switch's infamous Joy-Con drift. The consumer group reported testing five controllers in their lab and concluded that the fault was a mechanical issue. The report argued that the dust prevention cowls don't do enough to keep contaminants from entering the device.

As a result, dust and particles that enter the crevice could cause drift. In addition, the group identified wear in all of the plastic boards at the joystick slider points that further exacerbated the problem. The group concluded that the combination of those two faults could be the culprit behind the Joy-Con drift issue.

Which? also argued that Nintendo needs to do more to remedy the situation. The report urged Nintendo to conduct an independent investigation itself and make its findings public. In addition, the report argued that Nintendo needs to make Joy-Con repairs free and easy for those affected and refund those who had to buy Joy-cons due to the issue.

In response, Nintendo said, "we always encourage consumers to contact Nintendo customer support, who will be happy to openly and leniently resolve any consumer issues related to the Joy-Con controllers," but Which? remains skeptical if Nintendo will look into the matter further.