How to Fix a Nintendo Switch that Won't Power On

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

The Nintendo Switch comes with a built in sleep mode to help conserve battery power. However, you may encounter errors when trying to exit this sleep mode or your Switch may not wake up.

Nintendo switch error code

This guide will help you resolve these issues.

2. Force Restart

  1. Hold down the Power Button for at least 12 seconds until the Switch Console turns off.
Nintendo switch console with power button on top highlighted
  1. Once the Switch has been completely powered off, press the Power Button again to turn it back on.

3. Remove Game Card

Remove a game card only while on the HOME Menu, or when the console is powered off. If you have suspended a software title, make sure you have closed it before removing its game card.

  1. Open the game card slot cover located on the top right side of the Nintendo Switch console.
  2. Gently push down on the inserted game card until the card clicks.
Inserting a game cartridge into the Nintendo Switch. Illustration.
  1. Release the game card and it will partially eject.
  2. Slide the game card out of the game card slot and close the cover.

4. Remove the microSD Card

Make sure your Switch is off before removing or inserting a microSD card. Failing to do so is likely to cause data corruption.

  1. Flip the kickstand up.
  2. Pull the microSD card out of the Switch.
Switch showing how to pull the microSD card out.

5. Force Restart

  1. Hold down the Power Button for at least 12 seconds until the Switch Console turns off.
Nintendo switch console with power button on top highlighted
  1. Once the Switch has been completely powered off, press the Power Button again to turn it back on.

6. How to Factory Reset Your Nintendo Switch

Show Me How

Clicking this button will open a new guide that will provide you with steps to resolve your issue.