How to Transfer Nintendo Switch Data?

How Does the Nintendo Switch Store Data?

Before we jump into the "how-to," it's helpful to understand where your precious data actually stays on your console. The Nintendo Switch primarily utilizes three types of storage, including:

Internal System Memory

The internal storage is where your saved data (game progress), system settings, user profiles, and system updates are stored by default.

External Storage via MicroSD Cards

MicroSD cards offer a convenient way to expand your Switch storage capacity. These cards are primarily used for storing downloaded digital games, screenshots, and video captures.

Cloud Saving

Nintendo Switch Online allows you to back up your saved data, user profiles, and system updates. 

Preparations Before Transferring Nintendo Switch Data

Before you start transferring data, there are a few things you should do to make the process smooth and secure:

✔️ Ensure Both Consoles Are Updated: Make sure both your old and new consoles are running the latest version of the Switch system software. You can do this by going to System Settings > System > System Update.
✔️ Backup Your Save Data: Create backups of your data before transferring. If you use Nintendo Switch Online, ensure that your saved data is backed up to the cloud. This will protect your game progress during the transfer.
✔️ Prepare a Formatted microSD Card: If you plan to transfer data via the microSD card, ensure that both consoles have microSD cards inserted and format your SD cards correctly.
✔️ Charge Your Consoles: To avoid interruptions during the transfer, make sure both consoles are fully charged or connected to power.

3 Ways to Transfer Nintendo Switch Data

Can you transfer games and data from one Switch to another? No worries! Here are three effective ways to transfer your Nintendo Switch data. Just choose the method that works best for you.

Way 1. Transfer Nintendo Switch Data by Cloning MicroSD Card

If you have a microSD card with your game data, you can clone it to move your data between two consoles. This method is particularly useful when transferring a large number of digital games while preserving the original folder structure, hidden files, and encryption layout.

To handle this cloning process, AOMEI Partition Assistant is a highly recommended solution. As a powerful and user-friendly disk management tool, it enables you to clone one SD card to another on all major Windows systems, including Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, and 7. Here’s why it’s ideal for this task:

✅ Sector-by-Sector clone: Accurately copies all files and system metadata, even if hidden.
✅ Preserves original data layout: Ensures your new card works just like the original.
✅ Secure data transfer: Prevents data corruption or file omissions.
✅ Supports multiple card formats: Whether it’s FAT32 or exFAT, AOMEI handles them smoothly.

Free Download
Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7

100% Secure

Here’s how to transfer data from one Switch to another using AOMEI Partition Assistant:

Step 1: Connect both microSD cards to your PC using an SD card reader or the built-in SD card slot.

Step 2: Launch AOMEI Partition Assistant, click "Clone" on the main interface, and select "Clone Disk."

Step 3: Choose the microSD card that you want to clone as the source disk and click "Next."

Step 4: Select the destination microSD card where you want to store the data, then click "Next."

Step 5: In the next window, review the source and destination drives. If everything looks correct,click "Confirm" to proceed.

Step 6: Click "Apply" and then "Proceed" in the main interface to start the cloning process.

Step 7: Once the cloning is complete, you can safely insert the new microSD card into your new Switch console.

Way 2. Transfer Nintendo Switch Data via System Settings

The most straightforward method to transfer Nintendo Switch data is through the built-in system transfer feature. This method allows you to move both your user data and save data directly to a new console.

➤ Transfer User-Related Data

Scenario 1: Transfer to a console that has not been set up yet

Step 1. Select "Import User Data from Another Console" during the initial setup.

Step 2. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the transfer.

Scenario 2: Transfer to a console that has already been set up

Step 1. On the HOME Menu of each console, select "System Settings".

Step 2. Select "Users" from the left side.

Step 3. Tap "Transfer Your User Data" and follow the on-screen instructions to transfer your user data.

➤ Transfer Saved Data

Step 1. On the HOME Menu of each console, select "System Settings".

Step 2. Select "Data Management" from the left side.

Step 3. Tap "Transfer Your Save Data" and follow the on-screen instructions to transfer your save data.

Way 3. Transfer Nintendo Switch Data via Cloud Saves

If you have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, transferring save data through the cloud is simple. The Save Data Cloud feature can automatically back up your game data, even when your Switch is in sleep mode. Since the save data is tied to your Nintendo Account, you can easily access it by signing in on your new console.

Step 1. On your new Switch, sign in with the same Nintendo Account used on the old Switch.

Step 2. Once signed in, go to System Settings > Data Management > Save Data Cloud to access the cloud saves.

Step 3. Select the games you want to transfer and download your cloud save data. This will restore your game progress exactly where you left off.

Final Words

Transferring your Nintendo Switch data to a new console doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By understanding the different storage types and using the appropriate transfer methods, you can ensure a smooth transition. With this guide, you’ll be able to continue enjoying your favorite games on your new console without missing a beat!