Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsIf you still have your original Switch, use the local system transfer during Switch 2 setup. Digital purchases will download afterward; physical games are played from their game cards. Save files may need a separate transfer or cloud restore. If the old console is gone, you can redownload digital purchases by signing in with the Nintendo Account that bought them, but recovering progress depends on a save backup or transfer already in place.
Choose the right way to move your games
“Move games” can mean moving console data, getting access to a purchased game, or bringing over its save file. These are different tasks, so choose the route that matches what you have and what you want to keep.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Nintendo Switch 2 System | $499.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Nintendo Switch 2 System with Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 Bundle | $568.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle with Bonus HDMI Cable & Screen Cleaning Cloth | $619.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| Route | Best for | Old Switch needed? | Main caveat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local system transfer | Moving your setup when both consoles are available | Yes | Read the source-console warnings during setup. |
| Server system transfer | Moving when the old console will be handed off | To start the upload, yes | It initializes the old Switch; retrieve the data by the deadline shown during setup. |
| Sign in and redownload | Getting purchased digital games on Switch 2 | No | Does not restore save data on its own. |
| Nearby save-data transfer | Moving selected game saves | Yes | Requires proximity and internet, and removes the transferred save from the source. |
| Cloud Save Data Backup | Restoring supported saves after backup | No, once a backup exists | Requires an active Nintendo Switch Online membership and game support. |
| Physical game card | Playing a game you own on card | No transfer of the card contents | Compatibility varies by title. |
Transfer your system during Switch 2 setup
If both consoles are available, Nintendo recommends using local communication system transfer during Switch 2 initial setup. Keep the systems nearby, connect to the internet when prompted, and install a system update if asked. The transfer covers users and settings, account links, friends, play activity, and other data; digital software downloads to Switch 2 after setup and requires internet access. Follow the on-screen instructions and read the source-console warnings carefully, particularly if other people use the old Switch. Nintendo’s system-transfer guide has the setup details.
If you will not have the old Switch when setting up
Nintendo’s server-based system transfer is intended for a console that will be sold, traded, or otherwise unavailable at Switch 2 setup. You must start the upload on the original Switch using a Nintendo Account; the console is then initialized and restored to factory settings. Nintendo retains the uploaded data for up to one year, but use the specific download deadline shown during transfer setup and later in Nintendo Account settings. Make sure every user of the old console understands it will be initialized before starting. See Nintendo’s transfer instructions.
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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
Redownload digital games without the old console
Digital purchases are associated with the Nintendo Account that bought them. Sign in to that account on Switch 2 and download the games from Nintendo eShop. This restores access to the games, not their save files; progress must be restored separately through a save transfer or an available backup. Nintendo explains account and download options in its game redownload guidance.
Move save data separately
Nearby transfer from the old Switch
For selected saves, Nintendo supports nearby save-data transfer between Switch and Switch 2. Both consoles must be nearby and online, and the users must be linked to the same Nintendo Account. A Nintendo Switch Online membership is not required for this method.
Rank #2
- The next evolution of the Nintendo Switch system
- 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
- Supports up to 4K resolution** when using a compatible game and TV connected via the included Nintendo Switch 2 dock
- Nintendo Switch 2 plays compatible physical and digital Nintendo Switch games.***
- On the source Switch, open System Settings > Data Management > Transfer Your Save Data.
- Choose the option to send save data, then select the game and save you want to move.
- On the receiving console, follow the prompts to receive the save.
Nintendo says the transferred save is removed from the source console, so this is a move rather than a copy. Read Nintendo’s save-data transfer instructions before proceeding.
Cloud Save Data Backup
For a title that supports Cloud Save Data Backup, back up its save on the original console and download it on Switch 2. This requires an active Nintendo Switch Online membership, and not every game supports cloud backup. Check the specific title’s support rather than assuming its progress is included; Nintendo describes the service in its Cloud Save Data Backup guidance.
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Rank #3
- 【Ultimate Nintendo Switch 2 Bundle – Ready to Play】Includes the complete Nintendo Switch 2 console and a full-game download of Mario Kart World, so you can start racing right out of the box. Perfect for gamers of all ages and playstyles.
- 【Next-Gen Hybrid Gaming with Stunning Visuals】Experience a vivid 7.9‑inch 1080p LCD touchscreen with HDR support, and enjoy 4K TV output at up to 60 fps when docked — for immersive gameplay at home or on the go.
- 【Versatile 3 Play Modes】Seamlessly switch between Handheld, Tabletop, and TV modes — all featuring intuitive controls and smooth performance, wherever you choose to play.
- 【Enhanced Social Gaming with GameChat & Multiplayer】Connect with friends locally, enjoy online multiplayer with up to 24 players, and use voice chat via GameChat (internet connection and Nintendo Switch Online membership required after trial period).
- 【Powerful Storage & Joy‑Con 2 Controllers】Includes 256 GB internal storage (expandable with microSD), magnetic Joy‑Con 2 controllers, docking station, HDMI cable, AC adapter, grip, and straps — everything you need for the ultimate gaming setup.
Play physical Switch games on Switch 2
Insert the Nintendo Switch game card into Switch 2 and launch the game, subject to compatibility. System transfer does not copy the contents of a physical card onto the new console. If a game does not start or has gameplay issues, check Nintendo’s Switch 2 compatibility information for the title.
Use digital games on both consoles
Nintendo’s virtual game card system lets you eject a digital game from one supported console and load it on another. A Nintendo Account can pair up to two systems for virtual game cards. The online-license setting can support play on additional systems, but starting a game requires a successful online check. Neither loading a virtual game card nor changing which console has it moves the save file: transfer the save separately or use cloud backup if the title supports it. See Nintendo’s Virtual Game Card Guide.
Check storage and compatibility
Switch 2 expandable storage uses microSD Express cards. The card is optional for a system or save transfer; it may help if you need more space for downloaded software. Check available internal or microSD Express storage under System Settings > Data Management. Nintendo’s Switch 2 FAQ covers storage, while its compatibility information is the place to check a specific game that misbehaves.
Quick Recap
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.
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