When setting up a new SD card for your Nintendo Switch, you may be wondering if you need to format it first. The short answer is yes, you do need to format a new SD card before using it with your Switch. Formatting prepares the card to store games, screenshots, and other data properly. Here’s a quick overview of why formatting is required and how to do it.
Why You Need to Format a New SD Card for Switch
There are a couple main reasons why new SD cards need to be formatted for use with Nintendo Switch:
- It initializes the file system – Switch uses the exFAT file system which is different from the default FAT32 system on most cards out of the box. Formatting initializes the card with the correct Switch-compatible system.
- It erases any existing data – New cards may have some data on them from the manufacturing process. Formatting wipes the card clean so you can start fresh.
- It optimizes the card for Switch usage – Formatting sets up the optimal cluster size and other settings for storing games and apps.
- It checks for errors – The format process scans for any potential bad sectors or corruption.
In summary, formatting ensures the card is blank, has the proper file system, and is set up for optimal usage with the Switch. Failing to format could lead to game data corruption, lag, crashes, or other issues.
How to Format SD Card for Switch
Fortunately, formatting a new SD card for Nintendo Switch is quick and easy. Here are the steps:
- Insert the new SD card into your Switch while it is turned off.
- Power on your Switch and go to System Settings.
- Scroll down and select “Format microSD Card.”
- A dialog box will appear – select “Format.”
- Wait for the process to complete. This only takes a minute or two.
- When done, exit System Settings.
And that’s all there is to it! Your new SD card is now properly formatted and ready for use with your Nintendo Switch. The card can now store your downloaded games, screenshots and videos, extra data for physical cartridges, and more.
Tips for Formatting SD Card on Switch
Here are some formatting tips to keep in mind:
- Back up data first – If formatting a used SD card, be sure to back up any screenshots or game data you want to keep.
- Use official cards – Stick to major brands like SanDisk, Samsung, or Kingston for reliability.
- 256GB max – Current Switch models support up to a 256GB microSD card.
- ExFAT only – Switch can only use the exFAT file system. Do not format to FAT32.
- Avoid slow cards – Look for read/write speeds of at least 60-95 MB/s for good performance.
Following these tips will ensure you end up with a properly formatted, high quality SD card tailored for Nintendo Switch usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to format a brand new, unused SD card?
Yes, even brand new SD cards straight out of the package need to be formatted before first use with the Switch. This initializes the file system, erases any manufacturing data, and optimizes the card’s performance for Switch games.
Can I use my old SD card from my phone or camera in my Switch?
You can use an SD card from another device, but it’s best to reformat it specifically for the Switch. This will wipe any existing data and properly optimize it. Make sure to back up any data you want to keep first.
How do I know when I need to reformat my SD card?
Reformatting is recommended if you notice game crashes, lag, or corruption. You should also reformat if the card has been used in multiple devices and has a mix of different file systems present.
Will formatting erase all my game data?
Yes, formatting will completely wipe the SD card. Be sure to backup any screenshots, games, or other data you want to keep before formatting.
Can I use exFAT for other devices besides Switch?
The exFAT file system used by Switch is compatible with most modern devices like phones, cameras, and computers. However, some older devices may require FAT32 instead.
Conclusion
Formatting a new SD card is a quick and crucial step to setting it up for optimal performance with Nintendo Switch. The Switch needs the card to utilize the exFAT file system in order to properly store games, apps, and data. Formatting through the System Settings menu initializes exFAT, wipes the card of any manufacturing data, and optimizes it for Switch usage. Just remember to back up any data you want to keep before formatting a used card. Following these simple steps whenever inserting a new SD card will ensure it works exactly as intended.
Other Questions Readers May Have
How do I transfer screenshots from my Switch SD card to my computer?
To transfer your Switch screenshots and videos to a computer, you’ll need to remove the microSD card and use a card reader. Insert the card into the reader, plug it into your computer, then you can simply copy/paste the Screenshots and Videos folders to save them. Make sure your Switch is powered off before removing the card.
Can I use the same SD card in multiple Switch systems?
You can use the same SD card in multiple Switch consoles. However, some game save data is stored on the internal memory, not the SD card. So you’ll only have access to the save files on the system the games were originally downloaded and played on. The game software and updates can be shared across systems though.
Is it safe to remove the SD card while my Switch is on?
No, you should never remove the microSD card while the Switch is powered on. This can lead to data corruption or card damage. Always properly power off your Switch before taking out the SD card.
Do physical cartridges save game data to the SD card too?
Most physical Switch game cartridges store save data on the console’s internal memory, not the SD card. However some large games have optional data packs that can be downloaded to expand the game – this extra data will go on the SD card.
How can I tell how much space is left on my SD card?
You can check your remaining microSD card space from System Settings > Data Management > Manage Software. This will show total card capacity along with used and free space. It’s a good idea to manage your storage if you get low on space.
What should I do if my Switch says the SD card was removed incorrectly?
If you get an error about the card being removed incorrectly, don’t panic. First power your Switch completely off. Then reinsert the SD card properly and power back on. The system should recognize the card again normally. Just make sure to eject properly next time.
Why do some shops sell fake or non-working SD cards?
Some retailers unfortunately sell counterfeit SD cards that don’t meet advertised capacities or performance ratings. Stick to major, reputable brands like SanDisk, Samsung, etc. when buying SD cards to avoid fake cards. Buying from Amazon or other major retailers is best.
How can I tell if my microSD card is fake or counterfeit?
Some signs of a counterfeit microSD card include capacities that seem too good to be true, prices that are unrealistic, poor performance, and errors with reading/writing data. Use utilities like H2testw to scan for bad sectors. Stick to well known brands purchased through reputable sellers.
Why is SD card speed important for Switch performance?
Faster SD card read/write speeds allow games to load quicker and run smoother. Slow cards can lead to long load times, texture pop-in, lag, and crashes. Look for read speeds of at least 60-95 MB/s for optimal Switch performance according to Nintendo.
Can I use a bigger microSD card if I upgrade to the OLED model?
Both the original Switch and new OLED model support up to 2TB microSDXC cards. So you can use a larger SD card up to 2TB after upgrading without any issues. Just be sure to properly format cards over 256GB before using per Nintendo’s instructions.
Is a Class 10 microSD card fast enough for the Switch?
Maybe, but Class 10 only refers to a minimum write speed of 10MB/s. While better than lower classes, an SD card with a Class 10 rating alone may not be fast enough for optimal Switch performance in demanding games. Check reviews for real-world read/write speeds.
Can I use the same SD card in my Switch and my Android phone?
It is possible to use the same SD card between your Switch and an Android phone. However, you’ll need to reformat it each time you switch devices since Android uses FAT32 and Switch needs exFAT. Just be sure to backup any data first.
Is it normal for my Switch to get hot with the SD card inserted?
Yes, it’s normal for the Switch to get slightly warm in the area around the game card and SD card slots, especially when loading games from the SD card. As long as it’s not getting dangerously hot, this is not a cause for concern.
Why do I need a new SD card if I only plan to buy physical games?
Even if you buy mostly physical Switch games, an SD card is still useful for screenshots and videos captured in-game. Some physical games have large optional installs as well. So you’ll benefit from extra space even though you aren’t downloading full digital games.
How can I recover deleted files from my Switch’s SD card?
If you accidentally deleted important screenshots or other files from your Switch’s SD card, try using data recovery software like Recuva to attempt restoring them. The sooner you run recovery after deletion, the better chances the data can be retrieved.
Switch SD Card Formatting – The Important Takeaways
Here is a quick summary of the key points on preparing SD cards for Nintendo Switch:
- Brand new SD cards must be formatted before first use
- The Switch formatting process initializes exFAT file system
- Formatting erases data, so back up any old cards first
- Follow the quick format steps under System Settings
- Stick to major brands like SanDisk for reliability
- Avoid slow read/write speeds for best game performance
- Reformat occasionally for optimal card condition
With a properly formatted high speed SD card from a leading brand, you’ll be able to easily expand your Switch’s storage for plenty of extra games, screenshots, and more. Just don’t forget to format it first before enjoying all that extra space!