Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore
The Nintendo Switch only has 32GB of internal storage, and the Switch OLED only has 64GB, which means that if you play a lot of different games or take screenshots and videos, you will quickly run out of space. In my own experience, I initially purchased a 64GB microSD card and then realized that it was too small for my needs. If you're like me and need to upgrade from a smaller memory card to a much larger one, follow these steps safely. You will need access to a computer and both microSD cards to do this.
Not sure how much space you need? We can help you figure out which size microSD card is best for your Switch.
Products used in this guide
- Starter card: SanDisk 64 GB Ultra MicroSD card
- Power up memories: SanDisk 128GB MicroSD card (Mario)
How to transfer Switch data from one microSD card to another
- You'll first need to turn off your Nintendo Switch to remove the current memory card. To begin, hold down the power button for a few seconds. If a game is currently open, make sure to save your game and exit the software before doing this.
A menu will pop up. Select Power Options.
Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore- Select Turn Off.
Open the kickstand on the back of the Nintendo Switch.
Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore- Remove the current microSD card.
Insert the microSD card into your computer.
Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore- Open the file with the microSD data.
Cut and paste this data to another file on your computer.
Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore- You must format the new microSD card before you can use it with your Nintendo Switch. If you have not done so already, follow these steps.
Remove the old microSD card from your computer.
Source: iMore and Rebecca Spear / iMore- Insert the new microSD card into your computer.
Open the new microSD card's file.
Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore- Drag the data from the past microSD card into the new microSD card's file.
Once that's done, remove the new microSD card from the computer.
Source: Rebecca Spear / iMoreInsert the new microSD card into your Nintendo Switch.
Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore
With the new microSD card in place, you're ready to start playing even more of the best Nintendo Switch games.
How to transfer Switch data from one microSD card to another
Now that you've upgraded to a bigger and better microSD card, you'll be able to hold even more screenshots, videos, and game data. Hopefully, you won't run out of space any time soon. Enjoy playing with your Nintendo Switch. May you download all of the games your heart desires.
Our top equipment picks
Starter card
SanDisk 64 GB Ultra MicroSD card
Moderate gaming space
If you think you're going to play a handful of games on the Nintendo Switch, or you like taking a decent number of videos or screenshots, then this is a great memory card for you.
Power up memories
SanDisk 128 GB MicroSD card (Mario)
A whole lot of gaming space
This officially licensed memory card holds a large storage space and features an iconic Mario mushroom on a red background. This is an excellent option for anyone who plays several Switch games and takes plenty of screenshots.
Additional Equipment
Whether you own the Nintendo Switch or the Switch Lite, I've found that these three accessories are some of the best ones for these gaming systems.
Pro Controller ($70 at Best Buy)
This controller feels great in your hands and is much larger than the Joy-Cons. It also supports amiibo scanning, motion controls, and rumble.
HORI Compact Playstand ($13 at Amazon)
This is the perfect stand for when you want to play in tabletop mode. It raises the screen a few inches and offers three different viewing angles.
HORI Game Card Case ($17 at Amazon)
If you prefer purchasing physical cartridges over purchasing games digitally, then a game card case like this one can really come in handy. It holds up to 24 games and is perfect for travel.
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