How to delete save data on Nintendo Switch (2024)

The Nintendo Switch and its two siblings, the Nintendo Switch OLED and Nintendo Switch Lite, are all fantastic consoles that boast a massive and high-quality games library.

However, with a base storage of just 32GB, the vanilla Nintendo Switch model will not be able to store too many games, screenshots or videos, meaning that you may want to invest in a MicroSD card for additional storage.

But if you’ve reached the point where you have too many games and you know you’re not going to be revisiting them anytime soon, an easier option would be to erase some of the game save data files from your Switch.Not only does this free up storage, but it means you can replay your games from the beginning and relive the magic.

Read on to find out the easiest way to delete your game save data on a Nintendo Switch. It’s important to note that once you delete your game save data there is no way to recover it, so make sure you’re happy with your choice before you delete any data.

What you’ll need:

  • A Nintendo Switch

The Short Version

  1. Click on Settings
  2. Go to Data Management
  3. Click on Delete Save Data
  4. Choose the game you want to delete
  5. Click Delete All Save Data for This Software
  6. Press Delete Save Data
  1. Step
    1

    Click on Settings

    How to delete save data on Nintendo Switch (1)

    Turn on your Nintendo Switch and click on Settings from the menu at the bottom of the screen.How to delete save data on Nintendo Switch (2)

  2. Step
    2

    Go to Data Management

    How to delete save data on Nintendo Switch (3)

    Scroll down to Data Management. How to delete save data on Nintendo Switch (4)

  3. Step
    3

    Click on Delete Save Data

    How to delete save data on Nintendo Switch (5)

    Scroll down and choose the Delete Save Data option.How to delete save data on Nintendo Switch (6)

  4. Step
    4

    Choose the game you want to delete

    How to delete save data on Nintendo Switch (7)

    You will be presented with a list of games that are on your console. Choose the game you want to delete to save data for. How to delete save data on Nintendo Switch (8)

  5. Step
    5

    Click Delete All Save Data for This Software

    How to delete save data on Nintendo Switch (9)

    Click on the Delete All Save Data for This Software button to continue. How to delete save data on Nintendo Switch (10)

  6. Step
    6

    Press Delete Save Data

    How to delete save data on Nintendo Switch (11)

    Make sure you are happy with your choices and that you have saved your game data on a Micro SD if necessary, and then click the red Delete Save Data button. How to delete save data on Nintendo Switch (12)

Troubleshooting

Does deleting Nintendo Switch save data completely erase the game?

No, the game will not be uninstalled from the console but all your game data from the game will be deleted.

Does the Nintendo Switch have support for external hard drives?

No, at the time of writing there is no support for external hard drives on the Nintendo Switch, meaning you will need to use a MicroSD card for expansion.

I'm an enthusiast with a deep understanding of Nintendo Switch systems and their functionalities. Having extensively explored the gaming world and the intricacies of various consoles, including the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, and Nintendo Switch Lite, I can confidently guide you through the nuances of managing your game save data.

The article you provided addresses a common concern among Nintendo Switch users—the limited storage capacity of the base model. Let me break down the concepts mentioned and elaborate on the information:

  1. Nintendo Switch Models:

    • The Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, and Nintendo Switch Lite are different models catering to various gaming preferences. Each has its unique features and specifications.
  2. Storage Limitations:

    • The base Nintendo Switch model comes with a storage capacity of 32GB, which may not be sufficient for storing a large number of games, screenshots, or videos.
  3. MicroSD Cards:

    • To address the limited storage issue, users are recommended to invest in MicroSD cards for additional storage. These cards allow users to expand their storage capacity and store more games and media.
  4. Game Save Data Deletion:

    • When facing storage constraints or simply wanting a fresh start, users can delete game save data on their Nintendo Switch. This process frees up storage space and allows users to replay games from the beginning.
  5. Deleting Game Save Data:

    • The article provides a step-by-step guide on how to delete game save data on a Nintendo Switch:
      • Click on Settings
      • Go to Data Management
      • Click on Delete Save Data
      • Choose the game you want to delete
      • Click "Delete All Save Data for This Software"
      • Press "Delete Save Data"
  6. Important Note:

    • The article emphasizes the irreversible nature of deleting game save data. Once deleted, there is no way to recover the data. Users are advised to ensure they are content with their decision before proceeding.
  7. Troubleshooting:

    • The article addresses common questions:
      • Deleting save data does not uninstall the game; it only removes the saved progress.
      • The Nintendo Switch does not support external hard drives, requiring the use of MicroSD cards for storage expansion.

By following these guidelines, Nintendo Switch users can efficiently manage their storage space and enjoy a seamless gaming experience. If you have any further questions or need additional information, feel free to ask!

How to delete save data on Nintendo Switch (2024)
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