The Nintendo Switch 2 is on the horizon, and if you're planning to get one, you should know it comes with only 256GB of built-in storage. To enjoy a seamless gaming experience without constantly uninstalling and reinstalling games, you'll need to expand that storage. Unlike the original Nintendo Switch, the new console requires a MicroSD Express card, which is faster but more expensive than traditional UHS-based SD cards.
MicroSD Express cards have been around for a while, but they're not widely used by creative professionals yet. With the imminent launch of the Switch 2, expect a surge in the availability of these cards to meet the demand.
Since the system isn't out yet, I haven't tested any of these Nintendo Switch 2 SD cards. However, they come from reputable manufacturers known for producing high-quality storage expansion cards.
Why MicroSD Express?
The Nintendo Switch 2 mandates the use of a MicroSD Express card for storage expansion. While Nintendo hasn't fully explained this decision, it's clear they want to ensure faster storage performance. The console's built-in flash storage uses UFS technology, similar to that in smartphones, which is much faster than the eMMC drive in the original Switch. This means developers can rely on consistent high-speed storage, whether games are stored internally or on an expansion card.
Regular MicroSD cards can only be used for loading screenshots and videos from your first-gen Switch. Unlike the PS5, which allows last-generation games to be stored on slower external drives, the Switch 2 offers no such flexibility. To expand storage, you'll need a MicroSD Express card.
1. Lexar Play Pro
The Best MicroSD Express Card
The Lexar Play Pro stands out as the fastest and most capacious MicroSD Express card currently available. With read speeds up to 900MB/s and storage options up to 1TB, it's the top choice. However, due to high demand from the Switch 2 launch, it's currently out of stock. Keep an eye on it, especially the 1TB version, and consider ordering through Adorama, where it's on backorder until July.
2. SanDisk MicroSD Express
The MicroSD Express Card You Can Actually Buy Right Now
SanDisk, a well-known SD card manufacturer, now offers a MicroSD Express card. While it only goes up to 256GB, doubling your Switch 2's storage is still a good deal, especially at a lower price. With read speeds up to 880MB/s, it's slightly slower than the Lexar Play Pro but still very capable. It's readily available, making it a convenient choice if you want to buy now and not wait.
3. Samsung MicroSD Express for Switch 2
The Official Option We Know Very Little About
Samsung's MicroSD Express card, sold directly by Nintendo, adds an official touch to your storage expansion. However, details on its storage speeds and available capacities are scarce. The 256GB model is currently the only one listed, but more options may become available. The comfort of having Nintendo's seal of approval might be worth the wait, and I'll update this article as soon as more information is available.
MicroSD Express FAQ
How fast is MicroSD Express?
MicroSD Express cards are significantly faster than older SD cards, thanks to their use of PCI Express 3.1, similar to SSDs in PCs. While full-sized SD Express cards can reach read speeds up to 3,940MB/s, MicroSD Express cards max out at 985MB/s, which is still much faster than the MicroSD cards used by the original Nintendo Switch.
How long will a MicroSD Express card last?
Like any SD card, MicroSD Express cards have a limited lifespan, typically lasting 5-10 years depending on usage and environmental conditions. It's crucial to back up important data regularly, as these cards are not designed for long-term storage.
