You can free up Nintendo Switch storage without losing game progress by archiving or deleting downloadable software—not its save data. Nintendo stores saves in the console’s system memory, separately from the game software. Avoid the “Delete Save Data” option.
Check what is using storage
On the HOME Menu, open System Settings > Data Management. From there, review storage and manage installed software. Nintendo’s Data Management FAQ explains what can be stored on the console and on a microSD card.
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Game saves stay in system memory whether you play from a game card or download the game from the eShop. A microSD card can hold downloaded software, updates, downloadable content and screenshots, but it cannot hold or back up save data.
Archive a game to reclaim space and keep its icon
- Open System Settings > Data Management > Manage Software.
- Choose a downloaded game you are not currently playing.
- Select Archive Software and confirm.
Archiving removes the game software to free storage but leaves its icon on the HOME Menu. Select that icon later to redownload the game. Nintendo says archiving does not affect save data. Menu wording can vary by system menu version; Nintendo also describes archiving from a game’s Options menu and using Quick Archive for multiple titles in its software management instructions.
#1 Best Overall
- Compatible with Nintendo-Switch (NOT Nintendo-Switch 2)
- Incredible speeds in a microSD card officially licensed for the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo OLED, and Nintendo Switch Lite systems
- Spend less time waiting and more time playing with read speeds up to 100MB/s(1) and write speeds up to 90MB/s(1).
- Instantly add up to 256GB (1GB=1,000,000,000 bytes. Actual user storage less.)
- Store your downloaded games, screenshots and video captures in 1 place so you can travel light.
Delete software if you want to remove its icon too
Deleting downloadable software also preserves its save data, but removes the HOME Menu icon. Nintendo says you can redownload purchased software using the Nintendo Account that bought it. Choose deletion when you are comfortable finding the game again through that account rather than using its retained icon.
| Choice | What happens to software and icon | How to get it again | Save data |
|---|---|---|---|
| Archive Software | Software is removed; HOME Menu icon remains. | Select the icon to redownload. | Unaffected, according to Nintendo. |
| Delete Software | Software and HOME Menu icon are removed. | Redownload using the Nintendo Account that purchased it. | Unaffected, according to Nintendo. |
These distinctions are documented in Nintendo’s instructions for managing downloadable software.
Rank #2
- EXPAND YOUR STORAGE. Insert your card to add massive storage up to 1.5TB[1] to your Android smartphones and tablets, digital cameras, and laptops.
- SPACE FOR MORE. With expansive capacities up to 1.5TB[1], capture and store hours of Full HD video[4], movies, music, games, photos, and podcasts.
- MOVE FILES FAST. Use your card with the SANDISK QuickFlow microSD UHS-I Card USB-A Reader[6] to achieve up to 195MB/s[2] read speeds [128GB-1.5TB models] and offload your content fast.
- LOAD APPS IN A SNAP. Rated A1[3], the SANDISK Ultra microSD card is optimized for faster app launch and overall app performance.
- EASY CONTENT MANAGEMENT. Easily back up, organize, and transfer your photos and videos with the SANDISK Memory Zone desktop or Android mobile app[5].
Move eligible software to a microSD card
If a microSD card is installed, you can move eligible software data between it and system memory at System Settings > Data Management > Move Data Between Console/microSD Card. This can shift supported software data without deleting the game. Nintendo notes that saves and some update data cannot be moved, and moving data does not determine where future data installs. See Nintendo’s move-data instructions.
A microSD card is optional; it expands room for eligible software and media, not for saves. It is not a save-data backup.
Rank #3
- Nintendo Switch 2 uses a new standard of expandable memory card called microSD Express (sold separately). This kind of memory card is needed for faster access speeds and to ensure games will run smoothly.
- Please note: Nintendo Switch 2 is only compatible with microSD Express cards. If the microSD cards you have used for Nintendo Switch do not support microSD Express standards, you cannot use them with Nintendo Switch 2.
Leave save data alone
Do not select Delete Save Data when your goal is to preserve progress. Nintendo warns that deleted save data cannot be recovered. Software management and save-data management are separate options: archive or delete the game software, but do not delete its save. Nintendo’s save-data instructions explain the consequences of deleting saves.
The same rule applies to physical game cards: using a card does not move that game’s save onto the card. Save data remains in the console’s system memory.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch (NOT Nintendo Switch 2). Always check your device's max supported capacity.
- Reliable Real-World Capacity - Labeled Capacities/Usable Capacities: 64GB/≥58GB; 128GB/≥116GB; 256GB/≥232GB; 512GB/≥465GB; 1TB/≥908GB (Due to OS formatting and binary/decimal calculation differences)
- 4K & Full HD Ready — Optimized for high-bitrate video recording and burst-mode photography. Handles RAW files, time-lapse sequences, and smooth 4K UHD playback without lag or frame drops.
- UHS-I U3 + A2 Certified Speed — Up to 100MB/s read speed (lab-tested); meets Video Speed Class V30 and Application Class A2 for fast app loading, responsive multitasking, and reliable performance on Android devices.
- Built for Adventure — Shock-resistant, IPX6 water-resistant, and rated for extreme temperatures (−10°C to +80°C). Also resistant to X-rays and magnetic fields — ideal for travel, outdoor use, and dashcams.
Rank #4
- [Gaming Series] Especially designed for Gaming Consoles. A1 spec enables high speed data transfer for game professionals
- [Ultra HD] Read/Write up to 100/60 MB/s. UltraHD video displaying/recording
- [Compatibility] Storage for Laptop, Tablet, PC, Smartphones, Camera, e-Reader. Files, Videos, Music [Notice] Compatible with Nintendo Switch 1; not compatible for gaming with Nintendo Switch 2
- [Environment] Waterproof, shockproof, temperature-proof and X-Ray proof
- [Support] Gigastone 5-year limited warranty
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