How to format the microSD card on Nintendo Switch

Shortly after getting my Nintendo Switch, I realized that the meager 32GB of internal storage just wasn't enough to allow me to play all of the games I wanted. Pretty soon after that, I went searching for a microSD card to expand my storage space. But to be able to function properly with Switch, it needs to be formatted. Fortunately, that's really easy to do. 

Whether you're repurposing an old microSD card you have lying around or have grabbed a shiny new one here's how to format the card for Switch.

Warning: Formatting your microSD card will delete all the data on the card. If you're using an older card, make sure you back up your Switch game data before proceeding.

How to format a microSD card on Nintendo Switch

1. 1. Insert the microSD card into your Nintendo Switch.

2. Turn your Nintendo Switch on.

3. Select Settings from the home screen.

4. Select System from the bottom of the settings menu.

5. Select Formatting Options, all the way at the bottom of the menu.
   

6. Select Format microSD Card.

• Select Continue.

And that's all it takes. Your new microSD card will be ready to take on new game data, screenshots, and videos on your Switch. Hopefully, you were able to grab a much larger microSD card with enough space to fit your gaming needs. 

Our top microSD card picks

There are a few microSD cards that were specifically made for the Nintendo Switch by SanDisk. Some are small at only 64GB but some go all the way up to 512GB. These are perfectly good options and have an added element of Nintendo designs. For those who want more storage, we recommend the Mario-themed SanDisk 128GB. If you tend to play more games than the average person the 256GB EVO Plus MicroSDXC will be an excellent choice.