How to transfer Switch data to Switch 2

by | Blog

So, you’ve finally grabbed your shiny new Nintendo Switch 2. Yay! 🎉 But wait… what about all your save files, your progress in Zelda, or your hundreds of PokĂ©mon in your storage boxes?

Don’t worry, transferring your data from your old Switch to your new Switch 2 is easier than catching a Magikarp. Let’s break it down step by step—and yes, we’ll make it fun!

Step 1: Nintendo Account is Your Magic Key

Your Nintendo Account is super important. It’s like your digital backpack that carries your stuff wherever you go.

  • Make sure your old Switch is connected to your Nintendo Account.
  • Do the same on your shiny new Switch 2.

If you already use cloud save, great news! Some of your save data may be waiting for you in the cloud like a gift from the Game Gods.

Step 2: Transfer via System Settings

This part sounds fancy but it’s really not. Follow these tiny steps and you’re golden.

  1. On your old Switch, go to System Settings > Data Management > Transfer Your Save Data.
  2. Choose “Send Save Data to Another Console.”
  3. On your Switch 2, do the same but choose “Receive Save Data.”

Pick the game save you want to transfer and boom! Your progress flies through the gaming space-time like a Star Fox ship.

Step 3: Use Cloud Saves (If You Have Nintendo Switch Online)

If you’re subscribed to Nintendo Switch Online, you’ve already got the superpower of cloud save. đŸ•¶ïž

  • On your old Switch, check which save files are backed up.
  • On the new Switch 2, go to the same Nintendo Account.
  • Your backed-up saves will sync in like magic!

But note: Not all games support cloud save. (Yes, looking at you, Animal Crossing! đŸ»)

Step 4: Digital Games and Purchased Content

Good news! Your digital games are tied to your Nintendo Account.

You can re-download them on your new Switch 2—no extra cost, no drama.

  • Log in on your new console.
  • Go to the Nintendo eShop.
  • Download your games from your profile.

Piece of cake!

Bonus Tips 🍄

  • Multiple Users? You’ll need to transfer each profile separately if they’ve got their own saves.
  • Not Enough Space? Get a microSD card. Super handy for large game files.
  • Local Wireless Transfer works best with both consoles plugged in and close to each other.

Things You Can’t Transfer (Yet!)

Sadly, there are a few things stuck to one console:

  • Some game saves (depends on the game)
  • Videos and screenshots stored outside your Album
  • Your play activity log (all those hours in Smash Bros… gone but never forgotten 😱)

Still Stuck? Here’s Help

If you run into snags, don’t panic.

Visit Nintendo’s official site or call their customer support. They’re helpful, not scary (promise!).

And That’s It!

You’re ready to rock your Switch 2 with all your old progress intact. 🚀

Now, go explore that new console and save Hyrule again—or maybe just chill in Stardew Valley. Either way, game on!

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