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Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallFormatting a Nintendo Switch microSD card erases everything stored on the card, including downloaded software data and screenshots or videos. It does not erase game save data: Nintendo stores saves in the console’s system memory, not on the card. Before formatting, copy any card files you want to keep.
What formatting deletes—and what it leaves alone
Nintendo says formatting deletes all data on the microSD card, including software data, screenshots and videos, and data saved to the card by other devices. That means downloaded games’ installed data, updates, and add-on content stored there will be removed.
Save data is separate. Nintendo says software save data cannot be stored on a microSD card; it is saved in the console’s system memory. Save data for packaged game cards is not stored on the game card either. Formatting the microSD card therefore does not, by itself, delete your progress.
What to do before formatting
- Copy screenshots and videos you want to keep. Formatting erases them if they are on the card.
- Plan to reinstall card-stored software. You can generally download deleted software again, but Nintendo cautions that discontinued software may no longer be available.
- Back up supported saves if you want an extra safeguard. Nintendo Switch Online save-data backup can restore backed-up saves for supported games, but some games do not support the service. Check the individual game before relying on it.
Choose the right option for your situation
| What you want to do | Use this approach | Effect on card files |
|---|---|---|
| Erase and reuse the current card | Format the microSD card. | All data on the card is erased, including screenshots and videos. |
| Move a card from an old Switch to another console | Use Nintendo’s procedure to clear software data from the card for the new console rather than formatting it. | Nintendo’s guidance distinguishes this from formatting: clearing old-console software data leaves screenshots and videos on the card. |
| Transfer card contents to a replacement card | Copy the card’s contents to the replacement card before using it. | Copy files you want to retain; formatting the original card is not needed just to copy its contents. |
Copying files or replacing the card
Nintendo provides a procedure for copying microSD card data and recommends using a Windows PC. It warns that other environments may not copy the data correctly. Follow Nintendo’s microSD card data-copy instructions before formatting or changing cards.
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- 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.
For a replacement, Nintendo supports microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards. Its guidance recommends UHS-I cards with read speeds of 60–95 MB/s. Using a microSDXC card requires a system update and an internet connection. See Nintendo’s microSD card guidance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Official Nintendo guidance
Nintendo’s support information on managing Switch data explains where save data is stored and how software data can be managed. Its console replacement guidance covers moving to another Switch and cloud save-data backup, including the fact that some games do not support cloud backup.
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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