How to Transfer Save Data Between Nintendo Switch Consoles

Moving your game progress to a new Nintendo Switch system is a straightforward process, though the method depends on your specific needs and subscription status. This guide outlines the primary ways to migrate your save files, including using Nintendo Switch Online cloud backups, performing a full user transfer, or utilizing the local save data transfer feature. By following these steps, you can ensure your game progress remains intact when switching hardware or sharing a console.

Using Nintendo Switch Online Cloud Backups

The easiest method for transferring save data is available to subscribers of Nintendo Switch Online. This method automatically backs up your save data to the cloud, allowing you to download it on any console where you log in.

1. On your original console, ensure Save Data Cloud Backup is enabled in System Settings under Data Management.
2. On the new console, log in with the same Nintendo Account.
3. Download the software you wish to play from the Nintendo eShop.
4. Launch the game. If cloud saves are available, you will be prompted to download the save data. Select Download Save Data to resume where you left off.

Note that not all games support cloud saves, and some titles require manual activation of the backup feature.

Performing a Full User Transfer

If you are replacing your console entirely, the User Transfer process moves your entire user profile, including all save data, friends list, and account information, to the new system. This process deletes the user and save data from the original console.

1. Ensure both consoles are updated to the latest system version and are near each other.
2. On both consoles, go to System Settings > Users > Transfer Your User Data.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions, selecting Next on both screens.
4. Choose Source Console on the old device and Target Console on the new device.
5. Sign in to your Nintendo Account on the target console when prompted.
6. Wait for the transfer to complete. Do not power off either console during this process.

Transferring Save Data Locally

For users who do not have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription or need to move specific save files without transferring the whole user profile, the local transfer feature is the best option. Both consoles must be present and connected to the same internet network or in close proximity.

1. On both consoles, navigate to System Settings > Data Management > Save Data Cloud.
2. Select Transfer Your Save Data at the bottom of the screen.
3. Choose Send Save Data to Another Console on the source device and Receive Save Data on the target device.
4. Select the user profile and the specific game save files you wish to transfer.
5. Confirm the transfer. Once complete, the save data will be removed from the source console and added to the target console.

Special Considerations for Animal Crossing

Animal Crossing: New Horizons requires a specific process due to its unique island save structure. To move your island to a new console, you must download the Island Transfer Tool from the Nintendo eShop on both systems.

1. Open the Island Transfer Tool on both consoles.
2. Select Continue and then Let’s start on both screens.
3. Choose Source Console on the old system and Target Console on the new system.
4. Wait for the island data to transfer completely. This moves the entire island, including all resident save data associated with it.

Always ensure your consoles are plugged into their AC adapters during any data transfer to prevent data corruption caused by power loss.