How To Transfer Your Nintendo Account To Nintendo Switch 2

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When initializing the Nintendo Switch 2, one of the early tasks presented is whether you prefer to move your Nintendo Account to the Switch 2. The device offers a user-friendly guide for executing this transfer, but it’s essential to allocate a considerable amount of time and ensure both your original Nintendo Switch and the new Switch 2 are in close proximity during the process.

I’ll outline the steps for moving your account over to Switch 2 just underneath this, as well as provide instructions on retrieving your account information later if you choose not to transfer during the setup process.

In this version, we’ve used more conversational language and broken down the original sentence into two distinct ideas for better clarity.

How to transfer your Switch data to Nintendo Switch 2

Here’s what you need before starting the transfer.

  • A wireless internet connection and your internet password, so your Switch 2 can connect to your wi-fi network
  • The latest software update for the original Switch
  • Power adapters for both systems and room to plug them in near each other–literally right next to each other, ideally
    • You’ll likely need the original Switch power cable for this process. In our testing, the Switch didn’t recognize USB-C power sources that should have worked
  • At least 30 minutes for the process to complete

When you power on your brand new Nintendo Switch 2 for the first time and link it to the internet, a system notification alerts you about the option to move data from your original Nintendo Switch to the new one. You can opt to initiate this transfer, disregard it (Nintendo advises against this unless you don’t own an original Switch), or learn more about the process. It’s crucial that you sign in with the Nintendo Account containing the data you wish to move on your Switch 2, which can be achieved by scanning a QR code provided during the procedure or by entering the email address and password associated with the account.

Moving your data to the new Nintendo Switch involves transferring all user accounts, associated Nintendo Accounts, downloaded games, and save data to the Switch 2. Certain titles such as demos, Pokemon games, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons can only be installed on a single console, thus they will be moved from your original Switch to your new one. However, everything else on the initial Switch will remain accessible if you choose to continue using it.

Follow the prompts on the Switch 2, until it directs you to the original Switch. Then:

  • Open the “settings” menu on the original Switch
  • Select the “system” submenu
  • Navigate to the bottom, and choose “System transfer to Switch 2”

If that last option isn’t there, you’ll need to update your Switch and restart it.

Connect both consoles to their respective power outlets, then initiate the data transfer. The duration of the process can range from around half an hour to more, contingent upon the number of accounts being moved.

How to transfer Switch data after setting up Switch 2

You need to move your account when you initially set up your Switch 2, or else you won’t be able to do it later. Unlike its predecessor, which allows for account transfers between Switch, Switch Lite, and the Switch OLED models at any time, the Switch 2 only permits this during the initial setup process.

In simpler terms, it could appear problematic if you don’t have your original Nintendo Switch during the setup of the Switch 2. But fret not! Nintendo allows you to create a new user later and connect your Nintendo Account to it. This way, any digital games, profiles, and cloud save data will still be accessible on your Switch 2 because they are linked to your Nintendo Account. Just remember not to download anything on the initial Switch 2 account during setup as linking your Nintendo Account could overwrite that account’s information.

On numerous devices, you can establish your Nintendo Account. Meanwhile, a single Switch 2 can accommodate up to eight different accounts associated with it.

Additionally, you’ll be able to move screenshots and videos between your original Switch and the new Switch 2. However, remember that for this, you’ll need the microSD card from your initial Nintendo Switch, not the microSD Express card designed specifically for Switch 2. The good news is, you can transfer media whenever you like after setting up the system, so it’s a straightforward process without the time constraints associated with moving account data.

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2025-06-05 22:11