How to Fix microSD Card Issues on a Nintendo Switch

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

Though the Nintendo Switch may have a relatively small amount of storage, you do have the option of using a microSD card to expand that space. At times, like any technology, the microSD card may not work or be recognized. This guide will help you resolve these issues.

During the process, we may just need to format the card or update your Switch.

2. Remove the microSD Card

Make sure your Switch is off before removing or inserting a microSD card. Failing to do so is likely to cause data corruption.

1. Flip the kickstand up.
2. Pull the microSD card out of the Switch.
   

3. Compatible microSD Cards

How To Tell What Type Of MicroSD Card You Have

1. Look at the front of your MicroSD card.
2. There will be markings showing you which card you have.
3. MicroSD:
   

1. MicroSDHC:
   

1. MicroSDXC:
   

The following types of microSD cards are supported on Nintendo Switch:

• microSD (up to 2 GB)
• microSDHC (4 GB - 32 GB)
• microSDXC (64 GB and above)

In order to use a microSDXC card on the Nintendo Switch console, a system update is required.

In order to improve your gameplay experience, using a microSD card with a higher transfer speed is recommended.

High-speed microSD card guidelines:

• UHS-I (Ultra High Speed Phase I) compatible
• Transfer speed 60 - 95 MB/sec (the higher the transfer speed, the better gameplay experience on Nintendo Switch)

4. Insert the microSD Card

Make sure your Switch is off before removing or inserting a microSD card. Failing to do so is likely to cause data corruption.

1. Flip the kickstand up.
2. Push the microSD card in until it clicks.
   

5. Format a microSD Card

Once formatted, the information on the microSD card cannot be recovered. If screenshots or videos are stored on the microSD card, be sure to first back up the information on a computer.

1. From the Home Menu, select System Settings.
   

1. Select System.
2. Select Formatting Options.
   

1. Select Format microSD Card.
   

1. Select Continue.
   

1. The following message will be displayed: All data on the microSD card will be deleted. Data cannot be restored once it is deleted. Continue?
2. Select Format.
   

1. The console may restart.

6. Try Another microSD Card

If you have one handy, try another compatible microSD card.

7. What's next?

8. Manual Update

1. Select System Settings.
   

1. Select System.
2. Select System Update.
   

1. Allow the update to proceed. The system will reboot when ready.

9. Try Another microSD Card

If you have one handy, try another compatible microSD card.

10. What's next?