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Transferring Data from Your Old 3DS to a New 3DS: A Comprehensive Guide

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Yes, you can transfer data from an old 3DS (including 3DS, 3DS XL, and 2DS models) to a New 3DS (New 3DS, New 3DS XL, and New 2DS XL). This process allows you to bring over your save data, downloaded games, and other content to your upgraded system. Let’s dive into how to make this happen!

The Essential Steps for a Smooth Transfer

The 3DS system transfer is a fairly straightforward process, but it’s important to follow the steps carefully to avoid any data loss. Here’s a breakdown:

Check Compatibility: Ensure both your source (old) and target (new) 3DS systems are fully functional and have sufficient battery life. Both systems should be running the latest system software. You can check for updates in the System Settings menu.
Prepare Your SD Card: The New 3DS uses a microSD card, while older models use a standard SD card. If your old 3DS has data on an SD card, you’ll need to transfer the data to a microSD card compatible with the New 3DS. You can do this by connecting both cards to a computer and copying the files, or you can perform a wireless transfer (more on that later). The New Nintendo 3DS, New Nintendo 3DS XL, and New Nintendo 2DS XL are compatible with microSD cards up to 2 GB in size, and microSDHC cards of 4 GB and larger up to 32 GB in size.
Initiate the System Transfer:
- On both systems, go to System Settings from the HOME Menu.
- Select Other Settings.
- Navigate to System Transfer.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
Wireless Transfer Method: The most common method is using the built-in wireless functionality. The systems will communicate directly with each other to move the data. During this process, keep the systems close together and ensure a stable Wi-Fi environment.
Choose Your Transfer Type: You’ll be presented with a few options, including transferring everything from the SD card and formatting the source system. Choose the option that best suits your needs. Be aware that transferring data from an old SD card to the new system will mean that the original system won’t recognise the SD card anymore
Complete the Transfer: The transfer process can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the amount of data being transferred. Be patient and do not interrupt the process. Once completed, your data will be on the New 3DS, and the old 3DS may be formatted depending on the option you chose.

Important Considerations

Nintendo Network ID (NNID): Ensure you know your NNID username and password. You’ll need this to link your account to the New 3DS. It is not possible to link the same Nintendo Network account to multiple Nintendo 3DS family systems at the same time.
eShop Closure: As of March 27th, 2023, the 3DS eShop is closed. While you can still redownload previously purchased games, you can no longer purchase new digital titles.
One-Way Transfer: Data transfers to a New 3DS are one-way. Once you transfer to a New 3DS, you cannot transfer back to an original model 3DS.
7-Day Restriction: There is no limit to the number of times data can be transferred; however, data from a Nintendo 3DS family system can only be transferred once every seven days.
Deleting Data After Transfer: After performing the transfer, any data on the SD Card of the original system can only be used on the new system, and will not be recognised by the original system. Once the transfer process has completed, all data on the original system is deleted.
Nintendo DSi Transfer Tool The Nintendo DSi Transfer Tool is a feature that can be found in the Nintendo DSi Shop and be used to transfer things.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What happens to my downloaded games after the 3DS system transfer?

Your downloaded games will be transferred to the New 3DS. You’ll be able to redownload them from the eShop (provided you purchased them before the eShop closure) to your new system. Simply select the Nintendo eShop icon and tap Open. Scroll left and select Settings / Other. Scroll down and select Redownloadable Software. Select Redownload next to the software you wish to redownload.

2. Can I use a 64GB or 128GB microSD card in my New 3DS?

Officially, Nintendo recommends using microSD cards up to 32GB. However, some users have reported success using larger cards (64GB, 128GB) after formatting them to FAT32. Be aware that using larger cards can sometimes lead to compatibility issues.

3. Do I need to format my old 3DS after the transfer?

During the transfer process, you have the option to format your old 3DS. This will wipe all data from the system, making it safe to sell or give away. If you choose not to format, you’ll need to do it manually in the System Settings.

4. I forgot my Nintendo Network ID password. What should I do?

You can reset your Nintendo Network ID password on the Nintendo website. You’ll need access to the email address associated with your NNID.

5. Can I transfer my Pokémon games and save data?

Yes, your Pokémon games and save data will be transferred during the system transfer. Just ensure that all games and saves are properly installed and recognized by the system before initiating the transfer. As long as you have two separate games from the same generation in both 3DSes, yes, you can trade between them.

6. What if the wireless transfer fails?

If the wireless transfer fails, try these steps:

Ensure both systems are close together.
Check your Wi-Fi connection.
Restart both systems and try again.
Consider transferring the SD card data manually via a computer.

7. Can I transfer from a New 3DS to an older 3DS model?

No, you cannot transfer data from a New 3DS back to an original 3DS, 3DS XL, or 2DS. The transfer is one-way only.

8. How long does the 3DS system transfer take?

The transfer time depends on the amount of data being transferred. A system with many downloaded games and a full SD card can take several hours. A system with less data may only take 20-30 minutes.

9. Can I trade Pokemon between the old 3ds and the new 3ds ?

Yes, you can trade pokemon between the old 3ds and the new 3ds. As long as you have two separate games from the same generation in both 3DSes, yes, you can trade between them.

10. What if my SD card is full?

If your SD card is full, you have a couple of options:

Delete unnecessary data: Remove any games or applications you no longer need.
Upgrade to a larger SD card: Replace your current SD card with a larger one.

11. How do I redownload games that I purchased before the eShop closed?

From the HOME Menu, select the Nintendo eShop icon and tap Open. Scroll left and select Settings / Other. Scroll down and select Redownloadable Software. Select Redownload next to the software you wish to redownload.

12. What size SD card do I need?

The SD card size you need depends on how many digital games and other content you plan to store. A 32GB card is generally sufficient for most users. However, if you plan on downloading a large number of games, a larger card may be necessary. Officially the 3DS only supports SDHC MicroSD cards, which are capped at 32gb max capacity.

13. Can I have two SD cards for 3ds?

It is not recommended that you use two SD cards with a single Nintendo 3DS family system. If space is an issue, upgrade your current SD card or microSD card to a larger size.

14. Is there a limit to the number of times I can perform a system transfer?

There is no limit to the number of times data can be transferred; however, data from a Nintendo 3DS family system can only be transferred once every seven days.

15. Should I wipe my 3DS before selling it?

Yes, for your protection, prior to selling your system, be sure to securely remove all personally-identifiable information, including any pictures and all other stored sensitive information, from the system. You may also find our information on How to Format the System Memory helpful.

Beyond Gaming: The Educational Impact of Game Systems

While transferring data between 3DS systems is a practical concern for gamers, it’s also worth noting the broader impact of gaming on learning and development. Organizations like the Games Learning Society are dedicated to researching and promoting the educational potential of games. Games can foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity. For more information, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.

By following these steps and considering the FAQs, you can ensure a smooth transfer of your data from your old 3DS to your new one, allowing you to continue enjoying your favorite games on your upgraded system.