Do Switch games save on the cartridge?

Game Progress & Save Data

On Nintendo Switch, game save data is stored on the console's System Memory. This will not change whether downloadable software or software from a game card is being played. Game save data cannot be saved or copied to a microSD card.

Does anything save on Switch cartridge?

No, all save data is saved on the internal storage of the Switch. Switch cartridges are read-only, so save data cannot be saved to them.

Do physical Switch games save memory?

Best answer: Yep. If you own the physical or digital copy of a Nintendo Switch game, the game save data for the Switch is in the system's memory. So, if you're on the physical version and want to switch to digital instead, you should be able to do that without a hitch.

Do Switch games save to SD card?

The game will download onto your microSD card automatically. Remember that you can play the game off the microSD card, but save data will always save to your system memory. This is also useful for quickly transferring your games over if you've decided to upgrade your console.

Can I play a Switch game if I lost the cartridge?

@JellySlap No, if you lose a physical game, you'll have to buy it again. If you replace it, it doesn't matter if you buy digital or physical since game save data is stored separately on Switch internal memory. On the plus side, if you replace the game, you'll be able to resume your game progress where you left off.

The Sad Truth About Nintendo Switch Cartridges

Is it better to buy physical games or digital?

They both have advantages and disadvantages. You won't lose digital games like you could cartridges, but physical games tend to get better deals and can be shared with friends and family or sold for other games when you're done with them.

What to do if you lose a physical copy of a Switch game?

We recommend purchasing a replacement copy of the game at a retailer. If the game is published by a licensee company, you will need to contact that company for repair/replacement options.

Is it OK to Switch SD cards on Switch?

Due to the slot size, SD cards and miniSD cards are not compatible with Nintendo Switch.

How does the Switch SD card work for games?

The only type of SD card that works on a Nintendo Switch is a microSD card. microSD cards are smaller than normal SD cards, but can still hold large amounts of games and photos. The Nintendo Switch's SD card slot is underneath the kickstand, which you can only see while it's in handheld mode.

Can you download Switch games you bought physically?

No. When you get a cartridge, you are purchasing a physical copy of the game and the base version of that game, without any DLCs or add-ons or updates. It cannot be downloaded to your Switch.

Can you transfer digital Switch games to physical?

Yes, save data from a digital copy works with a physical copy and vice-versa.

Why are Switch physical games cheaper?

Mostly just supply and demand. They start out at the same price. Then over time, the demand for the game drops lower than the supply of the retail copies, so they need to lower prices in order to sell their pre-existing stock. Digital games have an infinite supply so aren't subject to the price system in the same way.

How long do Switch game cartridges last?

Matter of fact Switch cartridges might have more longevity considering games are saved to the Switch's on-board system memory rather than on a battery within the cartridge. Just keep the games in a dry place and they should be good for your entire life.

How durable is a Nintendo Switch game card?

The Nintendo Switch cartridges are very durable -- moreso than you conventional CD-ROM even. The cases they come in are so oversized, I'd recommend getting a case to hold all your games though.

How much data can Switch cartridge hold?

The long and short of it is 'Massive advances in ROM memory capacity and cost of manufacturing'. The biggest N64 cartridges could store 64 MB of data. The biggest Switch cartridges can store 32 GB of data. That's about 500x as much data.

Is 128GB enough for Switch?

If you're planning on downloading many games, you probably want a high-capacity card like a 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB microSD card. You'll be able to store more than enough games and they'll load faster since they're higher performance cards. For moderate use, a 32GB or 64GB microSD card will work.

Can I put a 1TB SD card in my Switch?

With the SanDisk Ultra microSDXC 1TB card for Nintendo Switch you can instantly add storage for your Nintendo Switch Lite so you can expand your on-the-go gaming choices.

Will I lose save data if I change SD cards Switch?

Game Progress & Save Data

On Nintendo Switch, game save data is stored on the console's System Memory. This will not change whether downloadable software or software from a game card is being played. Game save data cannot be saved or copied to a microSD card.

How do I change my SD card from my Nintendo Switch without losing data?

Eject the first microSD card, then insert the second microSD card into the slot or reader/writer. Using Windows Explorer access the microSD card again. Drag the data from the desktop to the new microSD card, then insert the new microSD card into the Nintendo Switch console.

Does removing SD card delete everything?

You can safely remove SD card.” You can now pull it out of your phone or tablet and not risk losing any data. The device also will stop scanning the SD card, and you won't need to worry about the system accessing it, even though you haven't unplugged it yet.

Is it worth buying physical copies of Switch games?

Much of it comes down to personal preference. If you like having shelves lined with your games that you can browse and reminisce, you'll want to go for physical. If you prefer the convenience and speed offered through digital purchases, and don't want game boxes lying around, then you'll want to go digital.

Is buying a physical copy of a game worth it?

What's more, unlike digital games, physical games have a resale value. This value can even rise above the original purchase price if the game becomes a collector's item. Last but not least, game discs or cartridges can be loaned or traded to other players.

Can you use the same game cartridge on two switches?

A: You need 2 game cartridges to play together on local if you buy 2 switch consoles.

Why are physical Switch games more expensive than digital?

Switch cartridges are expensive because they require physical production and freight charges to get to you. Moreover, they contain most of the data you need to run the game, unlike downloadables, where you'll need a separate microSD card.