Does a Switch have a Motherboard?

The Nintendo Switch console indeed contains a motherboard, which is the main printed circuit board (PCB) that holds and connects all the critical components of the device, including the central processing unit (CPU), memory, and storage. The Switch’s motherboard is a complex piece of hardware that enables the console to function properly, and it’s composed of multiple components, including the main motherboard and two additional motherboards for the Joy-Con controllers.

Related FAQs

General Information

1. Can you swap out a motherboard? If all of your old hardware is compatible with your new motherboard, then yes, you can do a 1:1 swap, but more often than not, you should plan to buy and install new hardware in addition to your motherboard.
2. Can you replace a Nintendo Switch CPU? Theoretically, yes, but practically, no, as it requires checking the socket and power requirements, taking the old unit apart, and soldering in the new CPU.
3. How do you remove a Nintendo Switch board? You can remove the motherboard by inserting a spudger between the motherboard and the frame, prying up with the spudger to separate the motherboard from the frame, and then removing the motherboard.

Troubleshooting and Repair

4. Will I lose everything if I replace my motherboard? No, you won’t lose your data, as it’s stored in hard disk drives (HDD) and solid-state drives (SSD), and replacing the motherboard or other components won’t affect it.
5. What is the cost of replacing a motherboard? On average, a motherboard repair may cost anywhere between ₹ 3500 to ₹ 5000, depending on the model and make, and additional costs for components like RAM and processor may apply.
6. Is it worth it to repair a motherboard? In most cases, if your desktop computer is between 3-5 years old, it’s worth replacing the motherboard, but for laptops, it’s often not viable due to the high cost of repair.

Nintendo Switch Specifics

7. Why won’t my Nintendo Switch turn on? The most common reason is low or no battery power, so try charging it for at least 30 minutes before turning it on again.
8. Can you disassemble a Nintendo Switch? Yes, you can take apart the Nintendo Switch to see how it works on the inside, and it’s also possible to remove and replace the memory.
9. How do you fix a overheated Nintendo Switch? Clean the controller rails and vents to prevent dust buildup, and ensure proper cooling to prevent overheating.

Upgrades and Maintenance

10. Can I add RAM to my Switch? Yes, you can easily expand the internal memory by adding a microSD card.
11. Will the Switch get an upgrade? Nintendo hasn’t announced any new hardware, but it’s acknowledged that a new platform is in the works, so it’s fine to buy a Switch that’s already available.
12. Is it OK to use an old motherboard? Old motherboards can seriously bottleneck other parts of your system, so it’s recommended to use a newer motherboard for optimal performance.

Technical Details

13. How do I know what motherboard I need? Consider the form factor, processor socket, RAM, PCI slots, and other features when selecting a motherboard.
14. How long does it take to change a motherboard? A motherboard replacement typically takes around 15 minutes, while repairs may take up to an hour.
15. Can dead motherboards be repaired? Yes, it’s possible to fix a dead motherboard in some cases, but it’s a complex process that should only be attempted by experienced technicians, and it’s essential to identify the cause of the failure, such as power surges, overheating, or physical damage, to determine the best course of action.