Transferring data to the Nintendo Switch 2: the simple and complete guide to avoid losing anything

The Nintendo Switch 2 is here, and with it comes a host of new features, improved performance, and expanded possibilities. But to fully enjoy this new generation of console, there’s one step many people dread: transferring data from the old Switch. Don’t worry—transferring data to the Nintendo Switch 2 is far from complicated, as long as you know how to do it. Whether you want to recover your game saves, user profiles, eShop purchases, or even screenshots, this guide walks you through everything step by step.

Why transferring data to the Nintendo Switch 2 is essential

If you’ve spent hours exploring Hyrule, battling Bowser, or building your island in Animal Crossing, you know how valuable your game data is. The good news is that Nintendo has provided several ways to ensure a smooth transition between the two consoles.

Transferring data to the Nintendo Switch 2 allows you to continue where you left off without starting over. It also helps preserve your game history, personalized settings, child profiles, and digital library.

Prepare your consoles before transferring

Before starting the process, make sure both consoles are properly prepared:

• Ensure both consoles (your old Switch and the Switch 2) are charged or plugged in
• Connect both devices to the same Wi-Fi network
• Update both consoles to the latest system version
• Log in with the same Nintendo account on both devices

These basic steps can prevent up to 90% of errors during the transfer process.

Method 1: Local transfer between both consoles

Steps to follow:

On the Nintendo Switch 2:

• During the initial setup, select “Start Data Transfer”

• Choose a storage location (microSD Express or internal storage)

• Sign in to your Nintendo account

On your old Nintendo Switch:

• Log in with the same Nintendo account

• Go to Home Menu > System Settings > Transfer Data to a Nintendo Switch 2

Wait for the transfer to complete automatically (this may take several minutes depending on the data size)

Once completed, your user profiles, local saves, and certain settings will be available on your new console. This is the most complete way to transfer data to the Nintendo Switch 2.

Method 2: Using the cloud with Nintendo Switch Online

If you have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, you can use a more flexible method: cloud transfer.

• Back up your data to the cloud from your old Switch
• Log in to your Nintendo account on the Switch 2
• Download your saves from the cloud

This method is especially useful if you no longer have access to your original console (e.g., lost, stolen, or sold).

What data can be transferred?

Here’s what you can recover when transferring your data:

• User profiles
• Game save data (local or cloud)
• eShop purchases (to be re-downloaded)
• Screenshots and videos
• Parental control settings
• Gameplay activity data

Note: Physical cartridge games do not require transfer. Simply insert them into the Switch 2 to play.

What to avoid

Even though the process is simple, certain mistakes can block or corrupt your data:

• Not checking system updates
• Starting a transfer with different Nintendo accounts
• Forgetting to back up screenshots manually to an SD card
• Changing Wi-Fi networks during the transfer

Preparation is the key to a successful transfer.

Bonus tip: Recover your eShop games without full transfer

Even without a full transfer, you can still retrieve your purchased games:

• Log in with the same Nintendo account
• Go to eShop > Profile > Redownload
• Download your games again for free

This allows you to rebuild your digital library easily.

Conclusion: Transferring data to the Nintendo Switch 2 is easy when guided properly

Upgrading to the Switch 2 is a major technological leap, but it doesn’t mean losing your data. By following these methods, you can transfer your data smoothly and keep everything intact. Whether you choose local transfer or cloud backup, the goal is to retain your profiles, games, and progress. Once the transfer is complete, all that’s left is to fully enjoy this new generation with everything you’ve already built.

See also:

• Nintendo Switch 2 issues: common bugs and how to fix them easily
• Nintendo Switch 2: a revolution already underway in the gaming world