How to Restore the Nintendo Switch Console to Factory Settings while in Recovery Mode

Important

• For consoles with system menu version 10.0.0 or higher, this process takes approximately five minutes to complete.
• This method should only be used if you are unable to restore the console to factory settings from within System Settings.
• This option is not to be mistaken for "Restore Factory Settings Without Deleting Save Data," which is also available in Recovery Mode.
• All information saved to the console's internal memory, including save data, screenshots, videos, and user information, will be deleted and cannot be recovered.
• The information saved to the microSD card will not be deleted; however, other than screenshots and videos, all software data and software update data will become unusable after restoring the console to factory settings.
• Recovery Mode cannot be accessed if the console is powered on or in sleep mode.
• To exit Recovery Mode, the console must be turned off. You cannot access the HOME Menu or launch a software application directly from Recovery Mode.

Note:

• The current system version will remain unchanged after factory settings have been restored.

Complete These Steps:

1. Turn off the console.
2. With the console turned off, hold down both volume buttons ((+) and (-)), and press the POWER Button to turn the console on. Be sure to keep the volume buttons held down until the Recovery Mode menu is displayed.
   
3. Select “Restore Factoy Settings".
   • If a Parental Controls PIN has been set for the console you will be prompted to enter it. (Forgot PIN?)
4. Read carefully through the information, then select “Continue” after going through each screen. To complete the process, select “Restore Factory Settings”.