Running out of room on your Switch? Transfer your games to a micro SD card!
- sep
- 02
How do I transfer Nintendo Switch games to a microSD card? It's not quite as simple as it sounds.
If you plan on downloading a lot of games to your Nintendo Switch, the 32GB storage won't get you very far. However, by picking up a microSD card, you can expand the storage on your Switch to better accommodate your downloading habits. If you have already downloaded games onto your Nintendo Switch system memory and you want to transfer them to your microSD card, you'll have to jump through a few hoops.
Products used in this guide
- Extra Storage: SanDisk Extreme PRO 64GB micro SD card ($36 at Amazon)
How to transfer Nintendo Switch games to a microSD card
It's not quite as easy as transferring a screenshot, but you can follow along below, and I'll show you how it's done!
- Make sure your Switch is off and insert your microSD card into the Nintendo Switch console. The slot is located behind the kickstand.
- Turn on your Switch.
- Select System Settings from your Switch's Home screen.
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Select Data Management. You'll need to scroll down a bit.
- Select Manage Software.
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Select the game you want to transfer.
- Select Archive Software.
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Select Archive.
- Press Home button to go back to your Home screen. It's on the right Joy-Con underneath the thumbstick.
- Select the archived game from your Home screen.
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Select Download.
The game will download onto your microSD card automatically. Remember that you can play the game off the microSD card, but save data will always save to your system memory.
Check out the best microSD cards available!
If you are planning on transferring games on to a microSD card, then you are likely going to be in the market to buy one. Fortunately, you can check out our list of the best microSD cards available for the Switch right here!
If you're uncertain about which microSD card to get, read our article to know which size microSD card is best for Nintendo Switch.
Storage Space
SanDisk Extreme PRO 64GB micro SD card
Plenty of storage space for your Nintendo Switch
This micro SD card is the perfect size to hold memory for a decent number of Nintendo Switch games. It's less expensive than other memory cards on the market while being a reliable option. It even comes with an adapter, making it more versatile.
Other helpful items to enhance your gaming experience
For the full Switch experience, you'll want to invest in the best accessories. Here are the top contenders.
eXtremeRate Replacement Shell
Customize the color of your Nintendo Switch with one of 18 different-colored shell options. Package includes a back-plate with kickstand, Joy-Con cases, full set buttons, and the tools needed to swap out the initial casings with the new ones. Note that removing the original shell voids the warranty on your Nintendo Switch.
Fintie Carrying Case
This hard shell carrying case comes in 18 different color options so you can choose the look you like best. It holds up to 10 game cartridges and features zipper-protected storage space to keep your accessories securely stowed. The handle makes it easy to carry and travel with.
Pro Controller
This is the mother of all Nintendo Switch controllers. It features motion controls, HD rumble, and built-in amiibo functionality. The battery lasts for 40 hours and should it get low you can plug in a USB cable and keep playing. The joysticks and buttons are enlarged from the ones on the Joy-Con for easier access.