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How to sell a Nintendo Switch (and reset it properly first)
Selling a Switch, Switch OLED or Switch Lite in the UK? Here's how to transfer your saves, deregister it and factory reset it — then sell it the easy way.
Updated 20 October 2026 · 3 min read
The Nintendo Switch has been in an enormous number of UK homes, and plenty of them now have one that doesn't get played. Whether you've upgraded, your children have moved on, or you bought a Lite for travelling and never used it, it's a console that people still want.
Which Switch do you have?
Check the back of the console or the box for the model number:
- Original Switch — model HAC-001, or HAC-001(-01) for the later version with improved battery life.
- Switch OLED — model HEG-001.
- Switch Lite — model HDH-001. Handheld only, with built-in controllers.
Newer Nintendo hardware may also be on the market. Whatever you have, tell us the exact model when you get your offer.
What's worth including
- The dock, the power adapter and the HDMI cable (for the original and OLED models).
- Both Joy-Con controllers, the Joy-Con grip and wrist straps.
- Any Pro Controller you're parting with.
- Game cartridges and cases, if you're selling those too.
Joy-Con drift is a well-known issue. If a stick drifts, mention it — or keep that Joy-Con back and sell the rest.
Step 1: Save your data
Game saves are tied to user profiles on the console. With Nintendo Switch Online, most games back up saves to the cloud automatically. You can also transfer user profiles and saves directly to a new console through System Settings > Users > Transfer Your User Data, or System Settings > Data Management > Transfer Your Save Data.
Step 2: Deregister it as your primary console
Your Nintendo Account has one "primary console" where your digital games can be played offline. Open the eShop on the Switch, select your profile icon and look for the Primary Console option, then deregister. You can also do this from the Nintendo Account website, but only once a year — so do it on the console if you can.
Step 3: Unlink accounts and reset
Go to System Settings > System > Formatting Options > Initialise Console. This deletes all data and unlinks your Nintendo Account. If parental controls are set up, you may need the PIN or to turn them off first via the Parental Controls app.
Remove any microSD card you want to keep.
Step 4: Clean it up
Wipe the screen with a microfibre cloth, clean the Joy-Con rails gently, and dust the dock. Avoid liquids near the ports.
Selling your Switch
Get an instant offer on SendForCash — tell us the model, condition and what's included. Accept, and we email a free postage label. Pack the console in a sturdy box (the original packaging is perfect inside a slightly larger box) and drop it off. We pay the same day we inspect.
Selling more than one console? Our games console guide covers PlayStation, Xbox and retro systems too.
FAQ
Can I sell a Switch with a cracked screen?
We only buy items that work properly. A cracked screen on a Switch counts as damage that affects use, so it's not one we can accept. A scratched screen on an otherwise perfect console is fine — choose the condition that matches.
Do you buy Switch games on their own?
Yes, if together they meet our £15 minimum offer. Popular titles in their cases are easiest to value.
What happens to my digital games?
They stay on your Nintendo Account and you can re-download them on another Switch once you sign in.
Do I need the box?
No. It's nice for packing, but not needed.