5 Nintendo Switch features you’re probably not using — but should be

1. Change the theme

The default white theme on the Nintendo Switch is clean and simple, but did you know you can switch to a dark theme that's easier on the eyes, especially when playing in low-light conditions?

To change your theme, go to the System Settings from the home screen (the gear icon). Scroll down to Themes and you'll see two options: Basic White and Basic Black.

Select Basic Black to put your Switch into dark mode. The black background is particularly nice when playing at night as it reduces eye strain compared to the bright white default theme.

Unfortunately, Nintendo hasn't added more theme options beyond these two basic choices, unlike the 3DS which had a wide variety of themes.

2. Hide your play activity

If you're sensitive about how much time you spend playing certain games (we've all been there with those addictive titles), the Switch offers a discreet way to hide your play activity from friends.

To hide your play activity, go to System Settings, then scroll down to User and select your profile. From there, go to Friend Settings and select Who do you want to see your online status?

You can set this to No One if you want complete privacy, or Friends if you're comfortable with friends seeing your activity but want to keep it private from others.

This feature is particularly useful if you share your Switch with family members and don't want them to see how many hours you've poured into that game you claimed you only play occasionally.

3. Give your switch a nickname

Did you know you can personalize your Nintendo Switch with a custom nickname? This is especially useful if you have multiple Switch consoles in your household or frequently connect to friends' systems.

To give your Switch a nickname, go to System Settings and scroll all the way down to System. From there, select Console Nickname and enter whatever name you'd like for your device. You can use up to 32 characters, so feel free to get creative.

The nickname will appear when you connect to other consoles for local wireless play and when transferring data between systems.

It's a small touch, but it adds a bit of personality to your device and makes it easier to identify your console when connecting with friends.

4. Find your controller

We've all been there—you're ready to play, but you can't find your Joy-Con or Pro Controller in the mess of your living room. Thankfully, the Switch has a built-in feature to help locate missing controllers.

To find a missing controller, go to Search for Controllers. You'll see a list of all controllers currently paired with your Switch. Select the missing controller, and it will vibrate continuously until you find it.

This works for both Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers, as long as they're charged and within wireless range.

This feature has saved me countless times when a Joy-Con has slipped between couch cushions or found its way under furniture.

5. Transfer your saved data

If you're upgrading to a new Switch model or need to send your console for repairs, you'll want to know how to transfer your saved game data to protect your progress.

To transfer saved data between Switch consoles, both systems need to be updated to the latest system software and connected to the internet.

On your source Switch, go to System Settings, then Data Management, and select Transfer Your Save Data. Then follow the on-screen instructions to initiate the transfer.