Removing the kickstand from your Nintendo Switch is a straightforward process, often necessary for cleaning, replacement, or accessing the microSD card slot. This guide will walk you through the steps to safely detach it.
Understanding Your Nintendo Switch Kickstand
The kickstand, located on the back of your Nintendo Switch console, serves as a crucial component for tabletop play. It's designed to be detachable to allow access to the microSD card slot beneath it, and in some cases, for easy replacement if it becomes damaged.
Why Remove the Kickstand?
There are several common reasons why you might need to take off your Nintendo Switch kickstand:
- MicroSD Card Access: The primary reason is to access the microSD card slot, which is located directly underneath the kickstand.
- Cleaning: Over time, dust and debris can accumulate around the kickstand's hinge, and removing it allows for thorough cleaning.
- Replacement: If your kickstand is broken, loose, or lost, removing it is the first step to installing a new one.
- Customization: Some users might remove it for specific custom cases or accessories.
Step-by-Step Guide to Kickstand Removal
Follow these instructions carefully to safely remove the kickstand from your Nintendo Switch console. This method is applicable to the original Nintendo Switch model and generally similar for the OLED model, though the OLED kickstand is wider.
- Prepare Your Console: Place your Nintendo Switch on a clean, flat, and stable surface. Ensure the screen is facing down to protect it, or use a soft cloth underneath.
- Fully Open the Kickstand: Gently flip open the stand until it clicks into place. Continue to open the kickstand until it is fully extended, reaching its natural stopping point. You should feel or hear a slight click as it settles into the open position. This action puts the kickstand in the optimal position for removal.
- Detach the Kickstand: With the kickstand fully open, gently but firmly hold the stand from the side that attaches to the console, then carefully pop it off to the side. Apply slight pressure where the kickstand connects to the console's body. The kickstand is designed to be easily removable at this point, so it should detach with minimal effort by pulling it slightly sideways away from its hinge points.
Kickstand Removal Steps at a Glance
| Step | Action | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Preparation | Place Switch on a stable, soft surface. | Protect the screen. |
| 2. Open Stand | Gently flip open the stand until it clicks into place. | Fully extend the kickstand to its stopping point. |
| 3. Detach Stand | Gently but firmly hold the stand from the side that attaches to the console, then carefully pop it off to the side. | Apply light sideways pressure where it hinges; it should detach easily. Avoid forcing it. |
Important Tips for Success
- Be Gentle: Always use a gentle touch. The kickstand is designed to be removed, but excessive force can damage the console or the kickstand itself.
- Avoid Forcing: If the kickstand doesn't come off easily, double-check that it's fully extended and try applying gentle pressure in a slightly different direction. It should not require significant force.
- Reinstallation: To reattach the kickstand, simply align the two small hinge tabs on the kickstand with the slots on the console and gently push it back into place until it snaps securely.
- Model Differences: While the process is similar, the Nintendo Switch OLED model features a wider, adjustable kickstand. The principle of opening it fully and gently detaching it at the hinge points remains the same.
For more information on Nintendo Switch accessories and maintenance, you can visit the official Nintendo support website.
