How to factory reset a Nintendo Switch

If you’re wondering how to factory reset a Nintendo Switch, you’ve come to the right place.

There are several reasons why you might want to factory reset your Switch. The most common is in order to sell the console on. If this is your plan completing a factory reset is vital to protect your personal data.

Another reason might be to try and free up some space for the new Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom game, whose file size is pretty mighty. A factory reset will remove all screenshots and game save data in one fell swoop, which could save time, though you will have to add your profile back afterward.

If you’re selling your Switch in order to buy an upgraded Switch in time for the new Zelda game, make sure to check out the best Nintendo Switch for Tears of the Kingdom.

Now, let’s get into it.

How to factory reset a Nintendo Switch

Before you follow the instructions below, make sure your Switch is fully updated and that you are connected to WiFi.

• Go to the Home menu, then select System Settings.
• Scroll down and select System.
• At the bottom of the menu select Formatting Options.
• Select Restore Factory Settings then Next.
• From here select Restore Factory Settings and let the Switch complete the process.

Note that a factory reset is unlikely to improve the battery life of your console. Replacing the Nintendo Switch battery is a better way to do this.

How to factory reset without losing game save data

If you want to keep your save data but remove everything else, perhaps to fix an issue with the software of your console, it is also possible to factory reset without losing save data.

• Turn the console off (if your Switch is not responding you can hold down the power button for 12 seconds and it will force a shutdown).
• Hold both the volume up (+) and volume down (-) buttons, while these are held down press the power button. Keep holding the volume buttons until the recovery mode menu pops up.
• From here select Restore Factory Settings Without Deleting Save Data.

Frequently asked questions

There are a few questions that often come up when resetting your Nintendo Switch. We’ve answered a few of them here.

Does factory resetting a Switch delete everything?

Factory resetting a Nintendo Switch will delete all personal and game data from your Switch. This includes screenshots and user information.

Is it easy to factory reset a Nintendo Switch?

Yes, the process to factory reset a Nintendo Switch is straightforward if you have the correct instructions.