F.A.Q. (taken from GBATemp)
Welcome to the FAQs section of IsMySwitchPatched!
Here, you'll find answers to many of the most common questions about our tool and how it works.
If you're new to checking the patch status of your Switch, you'll find useful information on how to use our tool, what the different results mean, and how to troubleshoot any issues you may encounter.
1 - The Serial of my Switch begins with four or more zeros, what does it mean?
Those Switches are all not patched and can be bought without hesitation. Leading zeros just mean that actual serial number that follows is very small, so the switch is rather old.
2 - My Serial is in the orange region, which says that it is possibly patched, what does that mean for me?
This means that it is not possible to tell from your serials number if your Switch is patched or not. It has to do with the fact that after patched units were first produced, Nintendo also produced units that still were not patched. That leads to an overlap.
3 - I've already bought a Switch in the orange region, what should I do?
It depends. If it is still sealed and you have the possibility to return it, you should probably try to get a Switch in the green region. If you can't return it, just try and see for you self if it is patched or not.
4 - My Switch is definitely patched, what should I do now?
Wait till someone finds something working for a patched Switch unit, You need to be VERY patient. Alternatively you can sell the Switch and get a not patched one.
5 - I know that the site said my switch is not patched/possibly patched/patched. Should I still ask a question about if anyone has information about my Switch?
No. The site is up-to-date and the borders are trusted. You can ask it of course, but don't expect any new informations.
6 - I have seen other guide similar to this guide with slightly different borders, what's the deal with that?
Basically, other sites copied the informations and posted them on their side without giving credit. I don't care. What I do know is that this guide is the most accurate one out there. Feel free to correct me if I am wrong.
7 - I found a bundle XYZ. Is it patched or not?
Bundles don't play any role whether a Switch is patched or not. Always go after serials number.
8 - I read everything and I am still confused about the guide. Please help?
If you have read everything twice you have my permission to ask in this thread. Beware of snarky comments.
9 - What about other serials numbers not in the list?
¯\_(ツ)_/¯ I don't know. I don't work for Nintendo, nor do I have any insider knowledge. I just gather that the people have collected in this thread and the spreadsheet. There is to little information about those to make good predictions.
10 - Where can I find the serial number on the Box?
The box has a little cut-out where the serial should be visible.