Which Mode switch position do I use for Bluetooth?

S for Nintendo Switch, D for Android. Windows X-input is not a Bluetooth mode — use the 2.4G USB-C dongle in the S/X position.

Do I have to hold PAIR every time?

No. The 3-second PAIR hold is only needed the first time. After that the Pro 3 reconnects automatically when you power it on in the same mode.

Does it work with iOS and macOS?

Yes. The Pro 3 supports iOS and macOS over Bluetooth; pair it like any other Bluetooth controller from the device's settings.

8BitDo Pro 3 — Pairing

Quick answer

Button combo

(Mode: S·D)STARThold PAIR 3s

Steps

1Set the back Mode switch to S (Nintendo Switch) or D (Android).
2Press START to turn on the gamepad.
3Hold PAIR for 3 seconds to enter pairing mode (first time only).
4On the device, open Bluetooth settings and select "8BitDo Pro 3".
5Wait for the Status LED to turn solid, confirming the connection.

LED states

Rolls side to side—Pairing mode (waiting for device)
Solid—Successfully connected

Last verified: 2026-06-20Source: 8bitdo.com

The 8BitDo Pro 3 pairs over Bluetooth in two modes: S for Nintendo Switch and D for Android (D-input). Choose the matching Mode switch position first, power on with START, then hold PAIR for 3 seconds; you only need this pairing step the first time. For Windows or Steam, X-input runs through the bundled 2.4G USB-C dongle rather than Bluetooth.

FAQ

Which Mode switch position do I use for Bluetooth?: S for Nintendo Switch, D for Android. Windows X-input is not a Bluetooth mode — use the 2.4G USB-C dongle in the S/X position.
Do I have to hold PAIR every time?: No. The 3-second PAIR hold is only needed the first time. After that the Pro 3 reconnects automatically when you power it on in the same mode.
Does it work with iOS and macOS?: Yes. The Pro 3 supports iOS and macOS over Bluetooth; pair it like any other Bluetooth controller from the device's settings.

8BitDo Pro 3 — Pairing

Button combo

Steps

LED states

FAQ

Same device — other tasks

Other devices — same task