The Nintendo Switch shares the same USB-C charging connector commonly found on most smartphones, making it easy to find a replacement cable if you’re ever in dire need. However, as with most devices, Nintendo recommends using its USB-C chargers whenever possible, as the console might not charge quickly enough or could possibly be damaged with third-party alternatives.

There are three variants of the Switch: the regular Switch, the Switch OLED, and the Switch Lite. The Lite requires less power, but the Switch and Switch OLED use a 39-watt USB-C Power Delivery (PD) AC adapter designed to deliver 15 volts/2.6 amps and 5 volts/1.5 amps. This USB-C PD charger allows the device to draw just the necessary energy without fear of damaging the console.

Other chargers, however, might provide more energy than is necessary, and without this regulating safety feature, it could lead to the battery degrading faster or even damaging the console. Since the Nintendo Switch doesn’t fully meet the USB-C specification, it may be possible to overcharge it. While you can use others, sticking with Nintendo-approved chargers could help avoid problems.