Nintendo Support: What Is the Difference Between a Nintendo Account and Nintendo Network ID?

Nintendo Accounts and Nintendo Network IDs are used for different purposes.

Nintendo Account

• A Nintendo Account is used for Nintendo Switch online services (including the Nintendo Switch eShop), smart device applications (like Super Mario Run), off-device software purchases, and the My Nintendo loyalty service.
• A Nintendo Account is off-device (through the Nintendo Account website).
• For more information, read the Nintendo Account Overview.

Nintendo Network ID

• A Nintendo Network ID (NNID) is created and used on a Wii U and/or Nintendo 3DS family system.
• NNIDs are used for online features (such as online multiplayer or interactions) and for purchasing downloadable software through Nintendo eShop on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS.

Additionally, a Nintendo Network ID can be to share Nintendo eShop funds across the different systems.