How to transfer your data to Nintendo Switch 2!

The Nintendo Switch™ 2 system is here!

Some of you may be wondering how you can transfer your Nintendo Switch data to the new system.

There are two methods to do a system transfer:

1. Wirelessly connect a Nintendo Switch system to a Nintendo Switch 2 system. Both systems must be in close proximity when the transfer happens.

2. Upload your Nintendo Switch data to a server and then download it to Nintendo Switch 2.

We’re going to give a quick overview of both options.

What is and isn’t transferable from Nintendo Switch to Nintendo Switch 2

First thing’s first: most of your data can be transferred over, but there are some limits. Let’s have this handy chart do the talking:

Set up a system transfer using local communication

Situation: This option is recommended if you still have your Nintendo Switch on hand when you get your Nintendo Switch 2.

What happens: Once you follow the on-screen directions, data is transferred using local communication. That means that you place the two systems in close proximity and data transfers wirelessly.

Set up a system transfer using the server

Situation: This option is great if you don’t plan on having your Nintendo Switch around when you get your Nintendo Switch 2.

What happens: If you use this option, your data will be sent to a dedicated server for safe keeping, and the source Nintendo Switch system will be ‘initialised’ (a fancy way of saying that all your data on that device will be deleted and the system will be reset to its factory settings). That’s why you need to be absolutely sure you want to use this method before starting.

Important notes: You will need an internet connection and to be signed into your Nintendo Account for this method. Once uploaded, the data will be stored on the server for up to one year—your ‘Download Deadline’ date will be displayed when setting up the transfer. Keep this date in mind, because you can complete the system transfer to your Nintendo Switch 2 or cancel the transfer within that time.

We hope this article cleared up any questions you may have had about data transfer. You can find more information here.