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Switch 2 Cartridge Types
Unlike the original Switch, the Switch 2 has three different cartridge types. These variants are dictated by the first two digits of the games' code on the label.
- LB
- They include the game data on the cartridge, and may require an update prior to use.
- These cartridges are compatible with the Switch 2 only.
- They are not forwards-compatible with the original Switch.
- LN
- They include the game data on the cartridge, and may require an update prior to use.
- These cartridges are compatible with the original Switch and Switch 2.
- LP
- They do not include the game data on the cartridge.
- They consist of a license on the chip/PCB which allows you to download the game from Nintendo's servers.
- They are a physical version of the virtual game key carts on the original Switch from the eShop.
- These cartridges may be compatible with the original Switch, dependent on the game.
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Recasings
As of August 2025, we've been made aware of reproduction casings for the Switch and Switch 2 cartridges. These casings are available in two different versions: the "Chip" and "PCB". The "chip" variation is essentially the main component with the copper contacts on the back of said chip, whilst the "PCB" variation is the full-sized PCB (as seen with the dummy cart further down this guide).
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| Repro chip casing external on outer, legitimate PCB cart on inner. |
| Legitimate | Fake |
|---|---|
| (Switch 1) Nintendo logo, HAC-008 and CE markings debossed on back. | Flat back, no logos. |
| (Switch 2) Nintendo logo, BEE-006 and CE markings debossed on back. | Flat back, no logos. |
| Etched identifier (eg: ADFUA). | No identifiers. |
| Sonically welded together, like the Vita, DS and 3DS carts. | Pin and socket mechanism. |
| Bottom arrow 0.02mm depth. | Bottom arrow 0.08mm depth. |
| Tastes bitter. | Tastes like plastic, no bitterness. |
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| Legitimate Switch 1 and Switch 2 chip variant rear casings. |
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| Reproduction casings, internal. Chip variant on left, PCB variant on right. |
Relabels
Due to the encryption used similarly to the Nintendo 3DS and the respective release dates of the consoles (March 2017 and June 2025); counterfeit Switch 1 or Switch 2 cartridges are unlikely to be on the market, unless you have a relabel or a recasing.
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| Example of a relabled Guilty Gear 20th Anniversary Edition (ATQXA) cartridge, dressed up as Super Smash Bros. |
Valid Verification Methods
The following methods are valid for a verification.:
The Lick Test
If you're unsure your Switch or Switch 2 cart is fake, lick it. Seriously. As quoted by Nintendo:
To avoid the possibility of accidental ingestion, keep the game card away from young children. A bittering agent (Denatonium Benzoate) has also been applied to the game card. This bittering agent is non-toxic.
You'll probably regret licking the cartridge due to how bitter it is, but at least you'll know it's legitimate.
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| Endorsed by Lickitung. |
Debunked Verification Methods
The following methods are not valid for a verification.:
Top Seam
The top seam of reproduction and legitimate cartridge casings are identical.
Kiosk Unit Update Carts
These carts were used to update kiosk units.
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Dummy Cartridges
Dummy cartridges for display purposes can be common. Simply put, the PCB is legitimate, but there isn't a usable chip to have data on the cartridge. It won't work in a Switch. It's just for display. This is not a fake cartridge.
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| Does it taste as good as it looks? |
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| Unpopulated PCB. Yummy. |
Supplemental Information
Additional information regarding Joy-Cons and cartridge codes have their own section.
Credits
- Thanks to u/NRJL1983 for images of the V13 Kiosk Unit Cartridge.