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David Pagels’ Retro-Pico-Switch project lets you use an original Nintendo 64 or GameCube controller with a Nintendo Switch by wiring the controller to a Raspberry Pi Pico and loading the project’s firmware. It is a do-it-yourself build, not a ready-made adapter: you supply the Pico, wiring and controller, then choose USB or, with a Pico W, Bluetooth.
What the Pico adapter does
The project’s firmware translates button and joystick inputs from original N64 and GameCube controllers into a format the Switch accepts. The repository also describes use on other platforms that support Switch Pro controllers, but does not establish universal compatibility.
Pagels describes it as “a spiritual successor to my N64-Arduino-Switch project.” The firmware can detect an N64 or GameCube controller automatically, scale joystick axes to account for the reduced range found in older controllers, and map L + R + Start to the Switch Home button.
Rumble is supported for GameCube controllers and N64 controllers equipped with a Rumble Pak. The project documentation specifies extra controller connections for rumble, so it is not simply enabled by plugging in the data wire.
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- Easy To Solder: Replaces the traditional wire soldering solution and reduces the difficulty of soldering. Fully compatible with the host motherboard and shell, can be installed without damage, while avoiding the communicate interference caused by the host can not start, for Picoboot development board has copied the program.
- For SD2SP2 Pro Adapter: Make sure there is a serial port 2 at the bottom of the for GC console and it can be read directly, for SD2SP2 Pro adapter needs to be used with for xeno, for GCloader Lite or for pcioboot, it will automatically load the Micro Storage Card game list, the maximum memory is 512GB, plug and play.
- Compatible With For RPi: For RPi cable is highly compatible with various for RPi, such as for RPi 4B 3B plus 3B 2B, etc, making it easy for users to access various devices. The cable is made of fine manufacturing techniques and premium materials for reliability and durability.
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- Compatible With Console Model: For RPi Picoboot FPC solder cable is designed specifically for GC DOL 001 game console and is to compression and bending, with immersed gold solder joints for stable data transfer. With thermal pads for GC and double sided sticker for bending (compatible with for GC DOL 001 only).
What you need to build it
- A Raspberry Pi Pico for USB use, or a Raspberry Pi Pico W if you want Bluetooth.
- An original N64 or GameCube controller.
- A 1 kΩ pull-up resistor between 3.3 V and the controller data line.
- A micro-USB cable and a computer for flashing firmware; Bluetooth use still requires USB power for the Pico W.
- Optional: the project’s enclosure design if you want a housing for the Pico.
The prebuilt firmware expects the controller data pin to connect to Pico GP18. Pins 1 and 4 are required for rumble support. Check the project’s wiring documentation before connecting a controller; the project is a DIY electronics build, not a finished product with a standard plug-and-play cable.
Choose USB or Bluetooth
| Connection | Board and power | Setup and trade-offs |
|---|---|---|
| USB | Raspberry Pi Pico; connected by USB | Use the standard Pico firmware-loading and wiring path. No Bluetooth pairing steps are involved. |
| Bluetooth | Raspberry Pi Pico W; remains USB-powered during use | Pair through the Switch’s Change Grip/Order screen. The project author notes that after disconnection, power cycling the Pico may be needed before pairing again. |
Bluetooth here does not mean a battery-powered wireless adapter: according to the project documentation, the Pico W must remain powered over USB. The pairing and reconnection behavior above is documented by the author, not independently verified across Switch models or firmware versions.
Rank #2
- Broad Compatibility: Designed for Raspberry Pi 3/4B+/Pico and compatible with HUB75 interface RGB LED matrix panels
- Dual Power Input: Supports Type-C (5V/4A) or DC-044 (5V/8A) for high-power applications
- Simplified Wiring: Integrates GPIO/Pico interface with HUB75 output to reduce cable complexity
- Stable Power Delivery: Dual VH-4P ports provide 5V/4A steady current per port for LED matrices
- Flexible Expansion: Features optional jumper cap to power Raspberry Pi as an all-in-one solution
Flash the firmware and connect the controller
- Download the appropriate release UF2 file from the Retro-Pico-Switch project repository.
- Hold the Pico’s BOOTSEL button while connecting it to the computer by micro-USB. The board should appear as a mounted drive.
- Drag the UF2 file onto that drive. The Pico reboots after the file is copied.
- Wire the controller data line to GP18 and install the 1 kΩ pull-up between 3.3 V and data, following the repository’s wiring details. Add the specified pins 1 and 4 connections if you want rumble.
- Connect the controller and use the selected connection mode. For Bluetooth, open Change Grip/Order on the Switch to initiate pairing.
Use the release file and wiring instructions from the repository rather than assuming another Pico project’s pinout or firmware will work.
GameCube mapping options
The release notes describe two GameCube mapping choices. One uses a one-to-one Switch button mapping; the other is intended to make controls in Super Mario Sunshine closer to the original GameCube arrangement. Choose based on the game and control layout you prefer, and check the release notes for the relevant firmware version: project release history.
Rank #3
- [PREMIUM QUALITY] High compatibility with various RPi . flexible cable with durable construction and stable data transmission.
- [SIMPLE YET EFFECTIVE] Easy installation without soldering difficulties. Enjoy enhanced gameplay with latency and full motion video.
- [EFFORTLESS SETUP] Compatible with DOL-001 consoles for easy installation without damage. games or backups via the second serial port to improve performance.
- [IDEAL FOR DEVELOPERS] Replace traditional wire soldering with convenience. Fully compatible with host motherboard and shell for error- installation.
- [EXPAND FUNCTIONALITY] Easily connect your RPi to other devices to improve functionality and range. Effortlessly increase the versatility of your RPi.
The project reports controller auto-detection and rumble support in its later release history. Those feature descriptions do not establish tested latency, compatibility with every controller revision, or performance in every Switch game.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is this the right adapter for you?
- Choose this project if you want to build an adapter yourself, already have a compatible original controller, and are comfortable with basic wiring and firmware flashing.
- Choose USB if you want the simpler connection path and do not need wireless operation.
- Choose a Pico W and Bluetooth if you value a wireless controller connection and can keep the board USB-powered and manage Switch pairing.
- Look for a finished adapter instead if you want a product that is assembled and ready to connect without sourcing components or wiring a controller.
Pagels’ README includes a historical comparison saying the Pico cost $4 versus $10 for an off-brand Arduino. That is the author’s rationale at the time of writing, not a current price comparison; current component prices are not established here.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Broad Compatibility: This adapter board is designed for use with HUB75 RGB LED matrix panels, ensuring seamless integration with Raspberry Pi 3/4B+/Pico for diverse projects.
- Power Efficiency: Featuring dual power input options (Type-C and DC-044), the board delivers up to 8A of current, making it suitable for high-demand LED applications without power drops.
- Simplified Wiring: The GPIO interface connects directly to HUB75 output, reducing the complexity of wiring setups for quick assembly and installation in DIY projects.
- Stable Power Delivery: Dual VH-4P ports maintain steady currents of 5V/4A per port, providing reliability for your LED matrices while enhancing display performance.
- Flexible Expansion: An optional jumper cap allows for Raspberry Pi pairing, allowing for a streamlined all-in-one solution for creative and digital signage displays.
Rank #4
- [IDEAL SOLDERLESS SOLUTION] This Picoboot FPC Flex Ribbon Cable eliminates the need for complex wire soldering, providing a clean and efficient installation process. The flexible design ensures full compatibility with your NGC DOL001 motherboard and shell without any modifications. Say goodbye to telecommunication interference issues that prevent console startup, as this premium cable ensures stable performance right out of the box. for Picoboot development boards with preloaded programs.
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- [ENHANCED GAMING PERFORMANCE] Experience superior gameplay with our SD2SP2 adapter that enables direct loading from your console's second serial port. Enjoy lag- full motion videos, faster game loading times, and improved serial port readout speeds. The optimized code implementation delivers smoother gameplay and better overall console performance, eliminating jittery visuals and frustrating load times.
- [SIMPLE INTEGRATION] Expand your 's capabilities effortlessly with this high-quality connection cable. Simply connect one end to your Pi's GPIO pins and the other to your desired device for instant functionality expansion. Compatible with multiple including 4B, 3B+, 3B, and 2B, making it a versatile solution for various projects and applications.
- [PREMIUM BUILD QUALITY] Featuring industrial-grade materials including pressure- flexible cable, gold-plated solder joints, and durable silicone components. The 16MB onboard flash memory and 264K ensure reliable data handling, while the dual-core ARM Cortex M0+ processor delivers robust performance. This complete kit includes the development board, SD2SP2 adapter, soldering cable, thermal pads, and installation tape for a complete solution.
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