IS MY SWITCH PATCHED

FAQs

Sourced from the GBATemp thread this data comes from.

The serial of my Switch begins with four or more zeros — what does that mean?

Those units are all not patched, no hesitation needed. Leading zeros just mean the actual number that follows is small, so the console is early in that batch.

My serial is in the orange region — what does "possibly patched" actually mean for me?

It means the serial alone can't tell you either way. Nintendo didn't switch every production line to the patched bootROM on the same day, so for a stretch of serials in each batch, both patched and unpatched units shipped mixed together.

I've already bought a Switch in the orange region — what should I do?

Depends. Still sealed and returnable? Try to exchange it for one in the green region instead. Can't return it? Just test it yourself with an RCM jig and see.

My Switch is definitely patched — what should I do now?

Wait for someone to find a working exploit for patched units, and be very patient — it could be a long wait, or it could never happen. Alternatively, sell it and buy a not-patched one.

The site already told me my result. Should I still ask around if anyone knows more about my specific serial?

No. The site is current and the boundaries are trusted. You can ask, of course, but don't expect new information. Beware of snarky comments.

I've seen other guides with slightly different boundaries — what's the deal with that?

Other sites copied this data and posted it without credit. I don't mind, but this is the original, most accurate version. Feel free to correct me if I'm wrong somewhere.

I found a console bundled with some accessory or game — is it patched?

Bundles don't affect patch status at all. Only the serial number matters.

I've read everything twice and I'm still confused. Help?

If you have genuinely read everything twice, you have my permission to ask. Beware of snarky comments.

What about serial prefixes not in the list?

¯\_(ツ)_/¯ I don't know. I don't work for Nintendo and have no insider knowledge — I just collect what people have reported in the thread and the spreadsheet. There's too little data on those to make a good call.

Where can I find the serial number on the box?

The box has a small cut-out window where the serial sticker underneath is visible without opening it.