Lockpick_RCM was the industry standard for dumping console-unique keys (specifically the prod.keys and title.keys ) needed for emulators like Ryujinx and tools like hactool. However, with firmware updates (specifically starting around 17.0.0), the method Lockpick_RCM used to extract keys was patched, and the tool has largely been deprecated or flagged by antivirus software.
Most modern Switch modders actually prefer not to use a standalone Lockpick payload at all. Instead, they use , the bootloader of choice, combined with updated system modules. lockpick rcm alternative
| Your Situation | Best "Alternative" | | --- | --- | | Already have CFW running | Use (non-RCM) from Homebrew Launcher | | Can enter RCM but Lockpick_RCM fails | Use Hekate’s built-in key dumper | | Have a NAND backup but no console | Use HacDiskMount + Biskeydump on PC | | Have a patched Switch (Mariko/Lite/OLED) | Install a modchip , then use standard Lockpick | | Don’t want to mod at all | You cannot get keys; emulation is not possible | Instead, they use , the bootloader of choice,
, a direct continuation and spiritual successor designed to maintain compatibility with the latest Nintendo Switch firmware versions. 1. The Leading Alternative: Picklock_RCM Picklock_RCM is currently the most widely recommended tool for users needing to dump their keys. It functions almost identically to its predecessor, operating as a payload that is injected during the Tegra Recovery Mode (RCM) phase of the Switch's boot process. Firmware Support but if you can’t boot RCM
While RCM-based tools are preferred because they run before the OS loads (allowing access to more keys), there are sometimes NRO versions (homebrew apps) that run within Atmosphere. These often cannot dump all keys (like the SBKcap S cap B cap K Marikocap M a r i k o
Lockpick_RCM remains the easiest method, but if you can’t boot RCM, first confirm whether your Switch is unpatched (Erista, X1 chip). If it is, buy a $5 jig. If it isn’t, no alternative software will work—only hardware.