The Tool Desk
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Before you reset: protect saves and remove the microSD card
Transfer anything you want to keep
Move the users and save data you need to another console before initializing this one, then confirm the saves are available on the new console. Nintendo warns that save data erased by initialization cannot be restored. Animal Crossing: New Horizons island data uses a separate Island Transfer process, so handle that before resetting if you want to move the island.
Nintendo’s guidance: transfer users and save data.
Remove the microSD card
Take the card out before handing over the Switch. Initialization makes software data on the card unusable, while screenshots and videos stored there remain accessible. If you plan to format or reuse the card and want to keep those images or videos, copy them somewhere safe first.
#1 Best Overall
- 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
Nintendo advises removing the card when transferring or disposing of the console: Nintendo Switch initialization guidance.
How to fully initialize the Nintendo Switch
- Connect the console to the internet. Nintendo recommends initializing an account-linked console while online. Without an internet connection, certain virtual game card and software-ticket sharing registrations may not be cleared.
- Open the initialization option. On English-language menus, go to System Settings → System → Formatting Options → Initialize Console. Nintendo’s Japanese support instructions give the route as HOME → Settings → System → Initialization → Initialize Console. Labels can vary with interface language, region, and software version.
- Read the prompts and confirm full initialization. Select Initialize Console, then follow the on-screen confirmations. Nintendo says the process can take about five minutes.
Do not select Initialize Console Without Deleting Save Data for a sale. That troubleshooting option retains user and save data, so it does not prepare the console for a new owner. See Nintendo’s initialization instructions.
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
What initialization removes—and what it does not
Full initialization erases software and save data, screenshots and videos stored in system memory, user information, the console’s account linkage, settings, and console histories. It also clears certain registrations when the console is online. The reset removes the link between the console and your Nintendo Account; it does not delete the Nintendo Account itself. It also does not roll back the system software version.
These details and the estimated process time are from Nintendo Support’s initialization guidance.
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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)
Stop Nintendo Switch Online renewal separately
Initializing the console does not stop automatic renewal for Nintendo Switch Online. If you no longer want the subscription, turn off automatic renewal separately through Nintendo eShop or Nintendo Store. Nintendo describes this as a separate account-management step in its initialization guidance.
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.
