If you’re a proud owner of a Nintendo Switch or considering adding it to your gaming arsenal, you may be wondering, “Can I watch movies on my Nintendo Switch?” Well, the simple answer is, yes, you can! But how, you ask?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about watching movies on your Switch, from the requirements to available platforms and some potential issues you may face. So, grab a seat (and your Switch) and enjoy the ride!
Ways of Watching Movies on Nintendo Switch
Watching movies on a Nintendo Switch isn’t as straightforward as it is on many other devices, but there are still a few options. Let’s look at the primary methods for watching movies on your Switch.
1. Via YouTube
One of the easiest platforms to access movies on your Nintendo Switch is Google’s own video-sharing platform – YouTube. Since November 2018, Nintendo Switch allows for downloading various apps from the Nintendo eShop, including the YouTube app [1]. Watching movies through YouTube on your device involves two simple steps:
- Download the YouTube App: Head to the Nintendo eShop on your Switch, search for YouTube, and download the app. The process is fast and free.
- Start Watching: Once your YouTube app is installed, launch it and sign in to your Google account. Now you can watch movies, TV shows, and other content from YouTube on your Nintendo Switch.
Bear in mind that YouTube might not have the “traditional” movies you’re looking for, as it mainly works with user-generated content. However, there are channels dedicated to movies or TV series, so it’s worth poking around to find your preferred type of content.
2. Via Hulu
For those seeking mainstream movies or binge-worthy shows, Hulu might be a better option. With a vast library of content, including movies, series, and even live-TV channels, Hulu is an excellent streaming service for Nintendo Switch users [2]. To get started with Hulu, you need to follow these steps:
- Download the Hulu App: Just like the YouTube app, go to the Nintendo eShop on your Switch, search for Hulu, and download the app.
- Sign Up or Sign In: If you don’t have a Hulu account, you’ll need to create one, and if you already have one, sign in. Keep in mind that Hulu offers different subscription plans, from ad-supported options to premium tiers without commercials and with additional features.
- Start Streaming: Once you’re signed in, you can browse the available content and select the movies or shows you’d like to watch on your Nintendo Switch.
Hulu is currently available only in the United States and Japan. Users outside of these countries won’t be able to access it on their Switch without using a VPN or other workarounds, which are not recommended as they may infringe user agreements.
3. Via Funimation
If you’re an anime fan, look no further than Funimation. As one of the leading anime streaming services, Funimation provides a vast library of popular anime titles, including classics and new releases [3]. Follow the instructions below to get started with Funimation on your Switch:
- Download the Funimation App: Visit the Nintendo eShop, search for Funimation, and download the app to your Switch.
- Sign Up or Sign In: If you’re new to Funimation, create an account; otherwise, log in to your existing account. Funimation offers both free, ad-supported streaming and premium subscription plans for an ad-free experience with added features.
- Enjoy Anime: With your account set up, you can start browsing and watching your favorite anime on your Nintendo Switch.
It’s good to note that Funimation’s availability depends on your region, as its content library varies from country to country.
What About Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Disney+ ?
Unlike gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox, the Nintendo Switch is still missing a few popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. While gamers and movie enthusiasts have been clamoring for these streaming giants to join the Switch’s bandwagon, there’s no solid information regarding specific release dates.
Can You Watch Downloaded Movies on Nintendo Switch?
As of now, the Nintendo Switch does not natively support movie or video files playback from its SD card [4]. This means that you can’t play downloaded movies or videos directly from an SD card like you might do on smartphones or tablets. The primary focus of the Switch is gaming, and this limitation is likely due to Nintendo’s push to keep it that way.
However, there are rumors of homebrew applications or unofficial software capable of enabling video file playback on the Nintendo Switch. It’s worth noting that using such applications may potentially harm your device or infringe upon Nintendo’s terms of service. Thus, it’s essential to exercise caution and consider the risks involved before attempting any such actions.
Some Points to Consider When Watching Movies on Your Nintendo Switch
While watching movies on your Switch can be an enjoyable experience, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure smooth sailing:
1. Battery Life
One of the most significant factors to consider when using your Nintendo Switch for movie playback is battery life. Streaming movies and TV shows can be taxing on the device’s battery, and in most cases, users claim to get around 3-5 hours of continuous streaming on a full charge [5].
Before starting a movie or series marathon, make sure to fully charge your device and consider carrying the charger or a reliable power bank for additional juice on the go.
2. Internet Connection
Since the primary method of watching movies on the Switch is through streaming platforms, a stable internet connection is crucial. Suppose you encounter buffering issues while streaming. In that case, it might be helpful to check your Wi-Fi connectivity and experiment with repositioning the router or the Switch to find a more suitable location for streaming.
3. Limited App Selection
As mentioned earlier, not all streaming services are currently available on the Nintendo Switch. While it’s not ideal, there’s always a possibility that more apps and platforms will join the eShop library in the future. In the meantime, users will have to make do with YouTube, Hulu, and Funimation.
Bottom line
In conclusion, yes, you can watch movies on your Nintendo Switch, albeit with some limitations. While the device may not be as versatile as a tablet or even other gaming consoles when it comes to movie playback, there are still options available for casual viewing or passing the time when you’re not gaming.
With YouTube, Hulu, and Funimation in your arsenal, you can enjoy hours of entertainment on your Nintendo Switch. So, find a comfy spot, queue up your favorite movies or shows, and enjoy the unique cinematic experience your Nintendo Switch has to offer.
