By Jon Scarr
Setting up a new console should feel exciting, not stressful. If you’re moving from a Nintendo Switch to Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo has made the system transfer process straightforward, with clear steps and built-in guidance. You can move your data over during setup or upload it ahead of time if you don’t have the new system yet.
If you’re setting up Nintendo Switch 2 for kids or a shared family system, we’ve also put together a Nintendo Switch 2 Parental Controls App Guide that walks through how to manage playtime, communication, and account settings once the transfer is complete.
This guide walks through what transfers, what doesn’t, and both official transfer methods, so you know exactly what to expect before you start.
What Data Transfers to Nintendo Switch 2
Most of the important stuff comes with you, but not everything. Nintendo shows this clearly during setup, and it’s worth knowing in advance.
Data That Transfers
- Digital software
Your purchased games will be re-downloaded on Nintendo Switch 2 after setup. - All user accounts
Profiles from the original system move over. - Save data
Game progress transfers so you can continue where you left off. - Screenshots and videos
Captures stored on the system move over. - System settings
General system preferences transfer.
Data That Does Not Transfer
- News data
- Bluetooth audio settings
- Time, time zone, region, and language
These are set manually during Nintendo Switch 2 setup.
Nintendo shows this list during the transfer process so nothing comes as a surprise.
Two Ways to Transfer Your Data
Nintendo offers two official transfer methods, depending on whether you already have your Nintendo Switch 2.
Nintendo has an official overview video that walks through both transfer methods step by step.
Method 1: Wireless System Transfer (Both Systems Nearby)
This is the easiest option if you already have both consoles.
What You Need
- Your Nintendo Switch (source system)
- Your Nintendo Switch 2 (target system)
- An internet connection
- Both systems close to each other
How It Works
- Power on your Nintendo Switch 2.
- During first-time setup, choose Start System Transfer.
- Sign in to your Nintendo Account.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- On your original Nintendo Switch, continue the process when prompted.
- The systems connect locally and guide you through the rest.
Once complete, your data is moved, and digital games begin downloading on Nintendo Switch 2.
This method keeps everything local and does not erase your original system during the process.
Method 2: Cloud Upload and Download (No Nintendo Switch 2 Yet)
This option is designed for situations where you don’t have your Nintendo Switch 2 yet, but plan to get one later.
Important Things to Know First
- Data for all users on the system is uploaded together.
- The user who starts the upload must finish the transfer later.
- All data is removed from the original Nintendo Switch after upload.
- Uploaded data remains visible in your Nintendo Account until downloaded.
This method is useful if you are trading in, selling, or giving away your original system.
How It Works
- On your Nintendo Switch, choose the option to upload system data to the cloud.
- Sign in to your Nintendo Account.
- Confirm the upload.
- Your system data is uploaded and removed from the console.
- When you get your Nintendo Switch 2, sign in and download the data during setup.
Nintendo makes this option very clear during the process, including warnings about data removal.
Which Transfer Method Should You Use?
- Have both systems already?
Use the wireless transfer. It’s quick and keeps everything intact. - Buying Nintendo Switch 2 later?
Use the cloud upload option. - Multiple users on one system?
Make sure the correct account starts the transfer, especially with cloud uploads. - Planning to trade in your old Switch?
Cloud upload is the safest route.
Taking a few minutes to choose the right method can save you time later.
Moving On Without Starting Over
Nintendo has clearly put thought into making the jump from Nintendo Switch to Nintendo Switch 2 painless. The system explains each step as you go, shows exactly what will and won’t transfer, and gives you flexibility depending on when you’re upgrading.
If you’ve been putting off the move because you were worried about saves or accounts, this process keeps things simple. Once the transfer finishes, you’re free to jump back into your games without missing a beat.
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