The generational leap between the Nintendo Switch and the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has raised a multitude of questions among those who don't want to lose any of their saved games, settings, digital games, or memories in the form of photos and videos. The technological advances of the new console and improvements to the Nintendo ecosystem have made the data transfer process simpler and more reliable, but questions also arise about the available options and the limitations that may arise depending on the type of data you want to transfer.
In this comprehensive guide, you'll find all the up-to-date and relevant information on how to transfer all your important data from your Nintendo Switch to the new Nintendo Switch 2, taking advantage of every detail of official information and the best recommendations from reference sources. If you're someone who wants to get the most out of your new console while maintaining all your progress, here's the definitive, step-by-step solution with answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Why is it important to transfer your data to Nintendo Switch 2?
The transfer process not only allows you Start playing on the new console where you left off on your original Switch, but it also ensures that all your user profiles, digital games, saved games and settings remain intact, avoiding the loss of any experience or progress. Plus, the Nintendo Switch 2 is backwards compatible, meaning you can continue using both physical and digital games of the previous generation, enriched with possible visual and performance improvements depending on the title.
What you need before starting the transfer between Switch and Switch 2
- Both consoles: A Nintendo Switch and a Nintendo Switch 2, both powered on and updated to the latest system version.
- Internet Access: Most methods require a Wi-Fi connection to upload and download data from Nintendo servers.
- Have a linked Nintendo Account to the user profile whose data you want to transfer.
- Connected chargers: It is essential to keep both consoles connected to power to avoid unexpected interruptions.
Available transfer options and key differences
There are two main methods to transfer your data: the transfer local (from console to console on the same local network) and the transfer online (using Nintendo servers)Below, we explain the advantages and differences of each.
Local transfer between consoles
Local transfer is ideal if you have both consoles on hand. Also, This process does not erase data from the source console, which is advantageous if you want to keep your games and saves accessible on both consoles (with the exception of a few titles). You just need to make sure they're both connected to the same Wi-Fi network and follow the prompts in the setup menu.
Online transfer via Nintendo servers
The online option allows you to upload all data to Nintendo's servers from your original Switch and then download them to your new Switch 2. This method is useful if you're selling your old console or can't keep both consoles together. Keep in mind that When using the online option, the original Switch will be factory reset. and you will lose access to the data on it, although it is kept on the server for about a year for download on Switch 2.
Types of data that are transferred and what is not transferred
One of the most important aspects is to know exactly What kind of content will be transferred to the new console and which ones, due to technical limitations or Nintendo's policy, will be left behind.
- Transferable data:
- User Profiles and Nintendo Accounts linked.
- Digital games purchased, whose licenses are automatically recovered and re-downloaded on Switch 2.
- Save game data, even those that were not in the cloud (with some exceptions).
- Screenshots and videos stored.
- Console configuration and user preferences (system settings, parental controls, etc.).
- Parental control settings, including passwords and restrictions if you have minors at home.
- Data that is not transferred:
- Unlinked Nintendo Accounts and local users without an associated account.
- News and notifications from the previous system.
- Bluetooth settings, must be configured again.
- Some specific saves: for example, saving Animal Crossing: New Horizons It only transfers once and cannot be returned to the original console.
Importantly, Cloud saves can be automatically transferred upon login, but if you have game data that didn't use cloud saves, you'll need to make sure you transfer it using the system we explain below.
Step by step: How to transfer all your data from Nintendo Switch to Switch 2
- Prepare both consoles. Make sure that the The original Switch and Switch 2 are both powered on, connected to the internet, and updated.. Keep both connected to power to avoid accidental power outages during the transfer.
- Access the configuration menu. On both consoles, enter the System Settings (gear icon) in the main menu. Look for the 'Console' section and, in it, the option 'Data Transfer Between Consoles' or 'Transfer to Nintendo Switch 2'.
- Select the transfer method. The system will allow you to choose between local transfer (nearby consoles) o online transfer (via Nintendo servers)If you intend to keep your old, empty console for sale, choose the online option.
- Follow the instructions on the screen. The process is guided. You'll need to select the profile you want to transfer, log in to your Nintendo Account, and confirm the procedure. Select "Send save data to another console" on the original Switch and "Receive save data" on Switch 2.
- Review the data and confirm. Before executing the transfer, the system will show you a list of the data that will be transferred and what will be left out. If you have any doubts, make an additional backup of your important captures and videos to a PC to avoid overloading the transfer. This is a good tip if you have a lot of images or videos, as Excess weight can slow down the process.
- Wait for the process to finish. The transfer may take a few minutes depending on the amount of data. It's normal for both consoles to restart afterward. Digital games are automatically downloaded to Switch 2 after the transfer.
Special cases and additional recommendations
If you have an active subscription to Nintendo Switch Online, You'll continue to enjoy all its benefits when you upgrade to Switch 2.You won't lose access to online play, GameChat features, or the classic titles included in the expansion pack. Also, if you're a fan of the Animal Crossing series, please note that once you transfer your island to the new console, you won't be able to transfer it back to your previous one.
In case you use parental control and have minors at home, it is recommended review and readjust restrictions after the transfer, especially with the arrival of new features like GameChat.
Porting improvements: backward compatibility, updates, and enhanced editions
Nintendo has opted for a almost full backwards compatibility on Switch 2, both physical and digital games, making the transition convenient and cost-effective. Many Switch titles will receive Free updates that improve graphics, fluidity, or add new features (like GameShare), and some games will have paid upgrade packages to take advantage of the technical advantages of the new console.
The highlight is that Over 10.000 games from the original Switch are compatible and have been tested on Switch 2., according to Nintendo. The catalog will improve over time, so if you're considering making the switch, you won't have to worry about your game collection. Plus, the new console features performance improvements and significantly reduced loading times.
Frequently Asked Questions About Transferring Between Nintendo Switch and Switch 2
- Can I transfer my data if I've already sold my original Switch?
If you haven't used online transfer before selling your game, you'll lose the option to transfer your games and profiles. It's always recommended to do so. before getting rid of the console. - How long will my data remain on Nintendo servers?
The data remains accessible for one year on the servers, giving you time to download when you receive your Switch 2. - Can multiple users be transferred at once?
You must make the transfer user to user, following the process for each of them if you have family profiles on your Switch. - Is it possible to keep the same data on both consoles?
With local transfers, yes, with a few exceptions (such as Animal Crossing). With online transfers, the original console will be reset to factory settings. - What happens to screenshots and videos saved on the microSD card?
Recommended move these files to a PC before transferring If you have a large quantity, to optimize the process and avoid errors.
Practical tips to make your transfer a success
- Update both consoles: Before starting, make sure you have the latest firmware installed.
- Back up screenshots and videos especially if you have high volume on your original Switch.
- Verify that the Nintendo Account is correctly linked to all users to transfer.
- Keep both consoles charging and connected to the Internet to avoid last-minute fiascos.
Enjoying the next generation on Nintendo Switch doesn't just mean access to better hardware or new features, it also allows you to preserve all the hours you've invested in your favorite games. Transferring your data ensures you don't lose any progress and can continue enjoying your library on the new hardware, with performance improvements and new features, making the transition smooth and efficient.
