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Before selling a Nintendo Switch, move any saves you want to keep, remove the microSD card, then run a full initialization while the console is connected to the internet. This erases the console’s user and save data and unlinks Nintendo Accounts, but it does not delete the Nintendo Account or cancel Nintendo Switch Online automatic renewal.
Before you reset: protect saves and media
Transfer the users and saves you want to keep
If you are moving to another Switch, transfer the relevant users and save data before wiping the old console. A full initialization erases the old console’s saves, which cannot then be restored from that console. Nintendo’s console replacement guide notes that ordinary user transfer does not cover every game’s shared-save data. In particular, Animal Crossing: New Horizons requires its separate island-transfer service. Check that the data you need is available on the destination console before proceeding.
Remove the microSD card
Take the card out before handing over the console, and keep it or preserve any screenshots and videos you want. Nintendo says software data on the card becomes unusable after initialization, but screenshots and videos stored there remain usable. You do not need a card reader to reset the console; one is optional if you want to copy card media elsewhere.
Choose the full initialization, not the save-preserving option
For a sale or handoff, use Initialize Console. Nintendo’s initialization guidance distinguishes it from Initialize Console Without Deleting Save Data, which is meant for troubleshooting and retains saves, screenshots and videos, user information, account linkage, and some console registrations. That is not the clean handoff option.
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- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
| Option | Purpose | Saves and personal information |
|---|---|---|
| Initialize Console | Sale, transfer, or disposal | Erases save data and user information, and unlinks Nintendo Accounts |
| Initialize Console Without Deleting Save Data | Troubleshooting while retaining data | Retains save data, user information, account linkage, and some registrations |
How to factory-reset a Nintendo Switch
- Connect the console to the internet. Nintendo directs owners to initialize online when users linked to Nintendo Accounts are present. Online initialization removes virtual-game-card and certain software-pass console registrations; offline initialization may leave some registration state until the console next connects to Nintendo eShop.
- From the HOME Menu, open System Settings → System → Initialization → Initialize Console.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the full initialization. Nintendo estimates the process may take about five minutes; actual completion time can vary.
- Keep the console connected until the process finishes, then leave it at the initial setup screen for the buyer.
The exact localized labels can vary by region. The menu path above follows Nintendo’s cited support instructions; consult the support page for your region if your console displays different wording.
What the reset erases—and what it leaves alone
Full initialization erases the console’s internal software data, save data, screenshots and videos stored on the console, user information, Nintendo Account linkage, settings, and histories. Downloaded software data on a microSD card becomes unusable, though the card’s screenshots and videos remain usable.
Rank #2
- 6.2” LCD screen
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
- Nintendo Switch is the home of Mario & friends
The reset unlinks your Nintendo Account from the console; it does not delete the account. eShop purchase records and balance remain associated with the account, and purchases may be accessed again by linking the account to another console, subject to Nintendo’s availability rules.
Cancel Nintendo Switch Online renewal separately
Initialization does not stop Nintendo Switch Online automatic renewal. If you want renewal to end, turn it off through your Nintendo eShop or Nintendo Store account controls before resetting.
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Rank #3
- Play your way with the Nintendo Switch gaming system. Whether you’re at home or on the go, solo or with friends, the Nintendo Switch system is designed to fit your life. Dock your Nintendo Switch to enjoy HD gaming on your TV. Heading out? Just undock your console and keep playing in handheld mode
- This model includes battery life of approximately 4.5 - 9 hours.
- The battery life will depend on the games you play. For instance, the battery will last approximately 5.5 hours for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (games sold separately)
- Model number HAC 001( 01)
If the console cannot connect or be initialized
Nintendo’s disposal guidance advises using account-site deregistration and changing the Nintendo Account password if the console is broken or cannot be initialized. Resolve relevant console registrations before handoff where possible; offline initialization may not clear all registration state immediately.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- One player can use a Joy-Con in each hand
- Two players can each take one
- Multiple Joy-Con can be employed by numerous people for a variety of gameplay options (additional Joy-Con sold separately)
- Slip a set of Joy-Con into a Joy-Con grip accessory, mirroring a more traditional controller. Or, select an optional Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Rank #4
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- 6.2” LCD screen.
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
