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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →No. Archiving or deleting a downloaded game on Nintendo Switch does not delete its save data. Nintendo says your progress remains on the console and can be resumed after you redownload the game. Save data is removed separately through Data Management.
What happens when you archive or delete a game
Removing the game software and removing its save are separate actions. Nintendo says save data is unaffected whether you archive or delete downloaded software, so your progress remains available when the software is redownloaded. Nintendo’s software management guidance explains the distinction.
- Archive Software: Frees storage but keeps the game’s icon on the HOME Menu. Select the icon to redownload the software.
- Delete Software: Removes the software and its HOME Menu icon. The save data remains; digital software can be downloaded again using the Nintendo Account that purchased it.
- Delete Save Data: Removes game progress through a separate menu. Nintendo warns that deleted save data cannot be recovered.
Remove the game without removing your progress
- Open System Settings > Data Management > Manage Software.
- Select the game you want to remove.
- Choose Archive Software or Delete Software. Menu wording may vary by system menu version.
- To reinstall a digital game, redownload it using the Nintendo Account that purchased it. If the game was archived, you can also select its HOME Menu icon.
Avoid System Settings > Data Management > Delete Save Data if you want to keep your progress. Nintendo’s save-data instructions say deleted saves cannot be recovered.
Where Switch save data is stored
Game save data is stored in the console’s System Memory, whether you play from a download or a game card. It cannot be saved or copied to a microSD card. Downloaded game software can be stored on microSD, and a card in the console is the default location for downloads and redownloads. A microSD card can therefore help free console storage, but it is not a save-data backup and does not protect a save you delete. Nintendo’s Data Management FAQ covers the storage distinction.
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- Compatible with Nintendo-Switch (NOT Nintendo-Switch 2)
- Incredible speeds in a microSD card officially licensed for the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo OLED, and Nintendo Switch Lite systems
- Spend less time waiting and more time playing with read speeds up to 100MB/s(1) and write speeds up to 90MB/s(1).
- Instantly add up to 256GB (1GB=1,000,000,000 bytes. Actual user storage less.)
- Store your downloaded games, screenshots and video captures in 1 place so you can travel light.
Which user’s progress will you see?
For most games, save data is associated with an individual user. When you launch the game, select the same user whose progress you want to continue. Nintendo describes this as the general rule rather than a guarantee for every title or situation; its save-data guidance provides more detail.
Can you redownload a digital game?
Yes. Nintendo says deleted digital software can be redownloaded using the Nintendo Account used to purchase it. Removing software does not itself erase the save. The Nintendo Account used for the purchase and the user profile associated with a save are related but distinct considerations: use the purchasing account to redownload, then select the user associated with the progress you want to resume. See Nintendo’s redownload instructions.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch (NOT Nintendo Switch 2). Always check your device's max supported capacity.
- Reliable Real-World Capacity - Labeled Capacities/Usable Capacities: 64GB/≥58GB; 128GB/≥116GB; 256GB/≥232GB; 512GB/≥465GB; 1TB/≥908GB (Due to OS formatting and binary/decimal calculation differences)
- 4K & Full HD Ready — Optimized for high-bitrate video recording and burst-mode photography. Handles RAW files, time-lapse sequences, and smooth 4K UHD playback without lag or frame drops.
- UHS-I U3 + A2 Certified Speed — Up to 100MB/s read speed (lab-tested); meets Video Speed Class V30 and Application Class A2 for fast app loading, responsive multitasking, and reliable performance on Android devices.
- Built for Adventure — Shock-resistant, IPX6 water-resistant, and rated for extreme temperatures (−10°C to +80°C). Also resistant to X-rays and magnetic fields — ideal for travel, outdoor use, and dashcams.
Rank #4
- [Gaming Series] Especially designed for Gaming Consoles. A1 spec enables high speed data transfer for game professionals
- [Ultra HD] Read/Write up to 100/60 MB/s. UltraHD video displaying/recording
- [Compatibility] Storage for Laptop, Tablet, PC, Smartphones, Camera, e-Reader. Files, Videos, Music [Notice] Compatible with Nintendo Switch 1; not compatible for gaming with Nintendo Switch 2
- [Environment] Waterproof, shockproof, temperature-proof and X-Ray proof
- [Support] Gigastone 5-year limited warranty
Rank #3
- Nintendo Switch 2 uses a new standard of expandable memory card called microSD Express (sold separately). This kind of memory card is needed for faster access speeds and to ensure games will run smoothly.
- Please note: Nintendo Switch 2 is only compatible with microSD Express cards. If the microSD cards you have used for Nintendo Switch do not support microSD Express standards, you cannot use them with Nintendo Switch 2.
Rank #2
- EXPAND YOUR STORAGE. Insert your card to add massive storage up to 1.5TB[1] to your Android smartphones and tablets, digital cameras, and laptops.
- SPACE FOR MORE. With expansive capacities up to 1.5TB[1], capture and store hours of Full HD video[4], movies, music, games, photos, and podcasts.
- MOVE FILES FAST. Use your card with the SANDISK QuickFlow microSD UHS-I Card USB-A Reader[6] to achieve up to 195MB/s[2] read speeds [128GB-1.5TB models] and offload your content fast.
- LOAD APPS IN A SNAP. Rated A1[3], the SANDISK Ultra microSD card is optimized for faster app launch and overall app performance.
- EASY CONTENT MANAGEMENT. Easily back up, organize, and transfer your photos and videos with the SANDISK Memory Zone desktop or Android mobile app[5].
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