Use the SD Association’s SD Memory Card Formatter on a computer, and choose Overwrite format, as Nintendo directs. Formatting erases data, so back up anything you need first. Check your 3DS model before choosing a card: original 3DS-family systems take full-size SD cards, while New 3DS-family systems take microSD cards.
Check your 3DS model and card type
Nintendo’s supported capacity depends on the card format and console family. Its compatibility guidance does not list SDXC or microSDXC cards as compatible.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
| Console models | Card size | Supported card types and capacities |
|---|---|---|
| Nintendo 3DS, 3DS XL, 2DS | Full-size SD | SD up to 2 GB; SDHC from 4 GB through 32 GB |
| New Nintendo 3DS, New 3DS XL, New 2DS XL | microSD | microSD up to 2 GB; microSDHC from 4 GB through 32 GB |
These are Nintendo’s stated compatibility specifications, not a guarantee that every third-party card will work. Nintendo says it cannot guarantee cards other than the one included with the system. Nintendo’s SD and microSD compatibility guide has the model-specific details.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsBack up the card before formatting
Formatting erases information on the card. The SD Association manual explains that Overwrite format erases the user data area, so copy any files you want to keep to a computer or another safe location before proceeding.
#1 Best Overall
- Brand: Sandisk
If you are moving your data to a replacement card, copy the entire Nintendo 3DS folder and leave its contents and folder structure unchanged. Keep the original card intact until you have checked that the new card works in the console. Nintendo’s SD-card transfer instructions explain the process.
Format the card on a computer
- Power off the console. Do not remove or insert the SD or microSD card while the console is on.
- Connect the card to the computer. Use a built-in SD slot or a compatible USB card reader. For microSD, use a reader or adapter that supports the card.
- Open the SD Association’s SD Memory Card Formatter. Select the correct card from its drive list; double-check the selection so you do not format another storage device.
- Choose Overwrite format, then start formatting. Nintendo specifically instructs users to select this option: “Please select Overwrite format when formatting the card.” The Nintendo formatting instructions direct users to the SD Association tool.
- Wait for the formatter to finish. Overwrite format may take considerably longer than Quick format because it writes over the user data area. Do not remove the card or reader while the operation is running.
- Safely eject the card and reinstall it. With the console powered off, insert the card according to your model’s instructions. See Nintendo’s card insertion guide if needed.
This procedure formats the storage card. It is not the same as formatting the 3DS system memory, which is a separate operation. Nintendo’s card-formatting instruction directs users to a computer tool rather than a universal SD-card formatting option in the console settings.
Rank #2
- Cards include security feature for protection of copyrighted data
- This is NOT a micro SD card
- SD cards are fully compatible with all SD-compliant devices
- Speed performance rating: Class 4 (based on SD 2.0 Specification)
- Writeable label for easy identification and organization
If the card does not appear or format
- The card is missing from the formatter: Confirm that the reader supports the card type, remove and reinsert the card, then refresh the drive list. The SD Association manual notes that some systems may require drivers or file-system support for some card types.
- The formatter reports write protection: Check the full-size SD card’s lock switch; it must be in the not-protected, upward position. If a microSD-to-SD adapter is in use, check its switch too.
- Formatting seems slow: Overwrite format can take a long time depending on card size and speed. Let it complete without disconnecting the reader.
- The console does not recognize copied data: Make sure you copied the whole Nintendo 3DS folder without renaming, merging, or rearranging its contents. Keep the original card until the replacement has been verified.
- The card is labeled SDXC or microSDXC: The formatter may support formatting it, but that does not make it compatible with the 3DS. Nintendo’s compatibility limits apply; choose SDHC or microSDHC up to 32 GB for the relevant model family.
For the formatter’s detailed operation and troubleshooting, consult the SD Association’s SD Card Formatter 5.0.3 for Windows/Mac User’s Manual, Version 1.11.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Shot speeds up to 90MB/s, transfer speeds up to 100MB/s (Up to 100MB/s read speed. Write speed up to 90MB/s. Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending upon host device. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes. X = 150KB/sec.)
- Perfect for shooting 4K UHD video and sequential burst mode photography (Full HD (1920x1080) and 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) video support may vary based upon host device, file attributes and other factors. See HD page on SanDisk site.)
- UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) (UHS Speed Class 3 designates a performance option designed to support 4K UHD video recording with enabled UHS host devices. UHS Video Speed Class 30 (V30), sustained video capture rate of 30MB/s, designates a performance option designed to support real-time video recording with UHS enabled host devices. See the SD Association’s official website.)
- Built for and tested in harsh conditions: Temperature-proof, waterproof, shockproof, and X-ray-proof (Card only. See product packaging or official SanDisk website for more information regarding proof.)
Rank #4
- SDSDUNR-064G-GN3IN Overseas Retail
Rank #3
- 32GB SD SDHC Flash Memory Card FOR NINTENDO 3DS N3DS 2DS XL DS DSI & Wii Media Kit. (Not compatible with New 3DS)
- Also compatible with Nikon SLR Coolpix Digital Camera, Kodak Easyshare, Canon Powershot, Canon EOS
- Speed performance rating: Class 10
- Bonus SD/TF USB Card Reader to facilitate easy transfer between devices
- High quality and reliability backed by a 5-year limited manufacturer warranty
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.
