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If you still have your original Nintendo Switch, use Nintendo’s local system transfer while setting up Switch 2. The consoles need to be nearby, Switch 2 must connect to the internet and install any required update, and you’ll sign in with the Nintendo Account linked to the source user. Before confirming, review which users and data will move: Nintendo says save data is deleted from the original console after a system transfer.
Choose the right transfer method first
Nintendo recommends local communication transfer when you have both consoles. Use the server method only if the original Switch will not be available; it resets the original console after upload and has a retrieval deadline. Nintendo’s system-transfer instructions explain both routes.
| Question | Local communication | Server transfer |
|---|---|---|
| When to use it | Both consoles are available and nearby. | The original console will not be available when you set up Switch 2. |
| What happens to the original Switch? | Nintendo says its save data is deleted after the transfer. | Uploading initializes the original Switch and resets it to factory settings. |
| Where is the transfer data? | It is transferred between the nearby consoles. | It is uploaded to Nintendo’s server. |
| When must you retrieve it? | During Switch 2’s setup flow. | During Switch 2 initial setup, using the Nintendo Account that started the upload. Nintendo stores the upload for up to one year; check the Download Deadline shown during setup and in Nintendo Account settings. |
| Already completed Switch 2 setup? | Use the on-screen setup instructions; this is not the server-retrieval route. | Nintendo says you must initialize Switch 2 and start initial setup again to retrieve the upload. |
Prepare both consoles and other users
- Charge or connect both consoles to power and keep them close together for local transfer.
- Connect Switch 2 to the internet. It may need a system update before transfer.
- Know the Nintendo Account linked to the user on the original Switch; you’ll sign in with it when prompted.
- If the original Switch is shared, tell its other users before starting. The system-transfer process can include all users on the console, and save data is deleted from the source after transfer.
- Check whether any game requires its own transfer procedure. Nintendo specifically says shared-save games such as Animal Crossing: New Horizons cannot be transferred through this system-transfer process.
For Nintendo’s initial setup guidance, see Getting Started with Nintendo Switch 2.
Transfer locally during Switch 2 setup
- Turn on Switch 2 and follow the initial setup prompts until you reach the System Transfer screen.
- Connect to the internet and install the system update if prompted.
- Select Start System Transfer.
- Follow the instructions on both consoles. Sign in with the Nintendo Account linked to the user on the original Switch and keep the consoles nearby.
- Review the users and transfer consequences shown on screen. If the console is shared, make sure other users know what will happen before you confirm.
- Let the transfer finish, then follow the remaining Switch 2 setup prompts. The exact prompt sequence may change with system software, so follow the current instructions displayed on your consoles.
What transfers—and what needs attention afterward
Nintendo says a system transfer may include users and their account associations, settings, friends and play activity, save data, system-memory screenshots and videos, registered network devices, parental controls, Mii data, some console registration status, and HOME Menu organization. Digital software is downloaded after transfer and setup, so you need internet access for those downloads.
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#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Items to set up or check again
- Bluetooth audio device settings, custom controller button mappings, time, time zone, region, and language do not transfer.
- Virtual Game Card console registrations and digital software downloads may need to be completed separately.
- You may need to relink the Parental Controls app.
- Screenshots or videos stored on the original Switch’s microSD card may require temporarily inserting that card into Switch 2 to transfer the media. Original Switch microSD cards are not compatible with Switch 2 for game data. Switch 2 uses microSD Express for game storage; a card is optional and is not required for setup or transfer.
If you have already set up Switch 2
If you uploaded data from the original Switch to Nintendo’s server, retrieval must happen during Switch 2 initial setup and with the account that initiated the upload. Nintendo says that if you have already completed setup, you must initialize Switch 2 and start initial setup again to retrieve it. Do not choose this path casually: initializing the target console erases its current data. Check the deadline Nintendo displays before relying on the uploaded transfer.
If you only need a particular compatible save file, a nearby save-data transfer is separate from a full system transfer. It can move selected saves between nearby Switch-family consoles and Switch 2 without Nintendo Switch Online, but both consoles must be online and the relevant users must have the same Nintendo Account linked. The selected save moves, and existing target save data may need to be overwritten. Compatibility and game-specific rules apply. See Nintendo’s instructions for transferring save data to a nearby console.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
When cloud saves may help
Nintendo Switch Online cloud saves can be another way to access supported game saves on another console, provided the membership remains active. This does not cover every game or account situation, so check the individual game’s support and save-data options rather than assuming a cloud copy exists. Nintendo also describes cloud-backed save access in its guidance on transferring digital games and Nintendo Accounts between Switch 2 consoles.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
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.
