Hey friend! Have you been bitten by the Nintendo Switch hacking bug and want to mod your console? I‘ve got good news and bad news. The short answer is: only early Nintendo Switch models can be hacked with current methods.
Specifically, you need one with a serial number that starts with XAW or XAJ, indicating it‘s an original 2017-2019 unit. Anything newer like XKW or a Lite/OLED won‘t work. Bummer, I know!
Now let me explain in more detail…
Why Hack Your Switch Anyway?
I totally get the urge to mod your Switch – who wouldn‘t want more control and customization? Hacking lets you do some cool things:
- Install homebrew apps and games made by indie devs
- Use game mods, cheats, and trainers
- Play backed up game files known as ROMs
- Unlock the region to play imports from Japan or Europe
- Customize the interface with new themes and skins
Hacking really opens up what you can do with the hardware. I‘d love to try out some of the awesome homebrew games and apps people have created.
But of course you‘ve gotta be smart about it too. Nintendo doesn‘t like modding and can ban your console from online services if detected.
The Problem: Nintendo Actively Patches Exploits
Ever wonder why only older Switches can be hacked? It‘s because Nintendo is constantly releasing firmware updates to patch and fix any vulnerabilities that modders exploit.
So newer models that launch with updated firmware don‘t have the bugs and weaknesses needed to crack into the system. Makes sense when you think about it.
But this cat-and-mouse game means the Switch hacking scene is always in flux. What works today could be patched tomorrow. You‘ve gotta get in while the getting‘s good!
The Key Is Entering RCM Recovery Mode
Actually hacking the Switch isn‘t too complicated for us techy types. The main thing is getting the console into "RCM" or Recovery Mode.
Once in RCM, we can inject a custom firmware "payload" to override the system. It‘s a quick way to take control.
RCM is normally only used by Nintendo repair techs to unbrick broken units. But clever hackers found a way to force it and unlock the system!
Early Switch Models are Vulnerable
Since newer Switches fixed the RCM exploit, only models shipped in the first couple years can currently be hacked.
Your serial number reveals when your unit was manufactured. Here are the vulnerable models:
Launch Models – 2017 Release
- XAW1 – XAW10000000000 to XAW10074000000
- XAW4 – XAW40000000000 to XAW40011000000
- XAW7 – XAW70000000000 to XAW70017800000
Mid Cycle Revision – 2019 Refresh
- XAJ1 – XAJ10000000000 to XAJ10020000000
- XAJ4 – XAJ40000000000 to XAJ40046000000
- XAJ7 – XAJ70000000000 to XAJ70040000000
I‘d target the 2017 models if possible since they‘ll be easiest to find. But the refreshed 2019 models work too.
Models That Can‘t Be Hacked
To avoid disappointment, here are the serials of Switches that are unhackable:
- XKW1, XKJ1, XJW1, XWW1 – Patched firmware at launch
- Mariko/Lite models (HAC-001[-01]) – Newer Tegra chipset
- OLED model (HAC-001-01) – Updated hardware and firmware
Don‘t even bother trying with these. Only get a used original model.
Where to Score an Old Hackable Switch
Alright, let‘s find you a vulnerable Switch! Here are some options I‘d try first:
- Check eBay and Craigslist for used launch models – Scrutinize photos for the serials starting XAW or XAJ. Meet locally if possible.
- Japanese resellers – Import an early Japanese unit. More pricey but easy if local used ones are hard to find.
- Buy an RCM jig – This gadget forces the Switch into Recovery Mode. The Atlas or RCMLoader are good starter choices. Don‘t overlook this essential piece!
- Optionally grab game backups – I won‘t link to them here, but you can find "ROM" downloads of games online for modded consoles. Use carefully and legally of course!
I always prefer buying local when possible. Importing consoles can have hidden fees and risks getting scammed.
Hacking Step-By-Step
Once you score a hackable system, here‘s a quick overview of the modding process:
Confirm your serial is vulnerable, like XAW. Do NOT continue if not.
Fully update your Switch to the latest OFW firmware. Thisprepares it to be hacked.
Insert the RCM jig while powered on toforce RCM mode. Don‘t skip this vital step!
While in RCM, inject the custom firmware "payload" from the microSD slot to launch CFW.
Slowly follow a detailed guide specific to your firmware like NH Switch Guide. Take your time!
That covers the basics, but tons of nuance is involved. Don‘t rush it and risk bricking your precious console!
Finding a good Switch hacking community like /r/SwitchHacks is also super helpful for troubleshooting. We‘ve all been noobs before!
Choosing Your Custom Firmware
Once successfully in, you‘ll need to pick a custom firmware or "CFW" to install for ongoing use. Here are some good options:
- Atmosphère – The open-source favorite. Actively updated and very flexible.
- ReiNX – A lightweight but older CFW, not ideal for novices.
- SX OS – This paid CFW is controversial due to piracy features but very user-friendly.
- Hekate – Robust bootloader that works alongside CFW like Atmosphere.
I‘d stick with Atmosphere since it‘s beginner friendly but powerful. Avoid SX OS if you don‘t need the piracy stuff.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Hacking your Switch offers more freedom but has downsides too. Let‘s recap:
Pros:
- Fun homebrew games and apps
- Customization with mods and themes
- Region-free gaming
- Back up your game collection
Cons:
- Online bans from Nintendo
- Potential bricking risk
- Voided warranty if issues arise
- Legal gray area in some regions
My advice is to focus on legit homebrew and avoid piracy. Making backups of games you physically own is reasonably safe too.
But I get the temptation to download ROMs and unlocked DLC. Just be cautious to avoid bans, especially if playing online matters to you.
And there‘s always a chance newer firmware updates will remove CFW access entirely down the road. Nintendo giveth and Nintendo taketh away!
In Summary
Hacking your Switch opens up lots of customization…if you have an older, vulnerable model. So check your serial number first!
Aim for those early XAW and XAJ models and use quality guides to stay safe. While not foolproof, sticking to legal homebrew reduces risks.
The mod scene is always moving fast so enjoy your custom firmware while it lasts! Just don‘t brick your beautiful console along the way.
Let me know if any questions come up during your Switch hacking adventures. Happy modding!
