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 vast library of games without the hassle of constant uninstalling and reinstalling, you'll need to expand that storage. Unlike the original Nintendo Switch, the new console requires a MicroSD Express card – these are faster but pricier than traditional UHS-based SD cards.
MicroSD Express cards have been around for a bit, but they haven't caught on widely among creative professionals. With the imminent launch of the Switch 2, expect a flood of these cards to hit the market to meet the demand.
Since the system isn't out yet, I haven't been able to test any of these Nintendo Switch 2 SD cards. However, they are produced by well-known manufacturers with a history of producing high-quality storage solutions.
Why MicroSD Express?
The Nintendo Switch 2 mandates the use of a MicroSD Express card for storage expansion. Although Nintendo hasn't detailed their reasoning, the move to faster storage seems logical. The console's built-in flash storage uses UFS technology, similar to that in modern smartphones, which is much faster than the eMMC drive found in the original Switch. This ensures that game developers can rely on consistent storage speeds, whether games are stored internally or on an expansion card.
Regular MicroSD cards can only be used for transferring screenshots and videos from your first-gen Switch. Unlike the PS5, which permits slower external drives for last-generation games, Nintendo insists on MicroSD Express for expanding the Switch 2's storage.
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, offering read speeds up to 900MB/s and storage up to 1TB. Although it's currently the most expensive option and out of stock due to high demand from the Switch 2 launch, it's worth keeping an eye on. If you're set on getting the best SD card for your Switch 2, consider ordering from Adorama, where it's on backorder until July.
2. SanDisk MicroSD Express
The MicroSD Express Card You Can Actually Buy Right Now
SanDisk, a trusted name in SD cards, offers a MicroSD Express card that's readily available. It tops out at 256GB, matching the Switch 2's internal storage, and has a read speed of up to 880MB/s. While it's not as fast as the Lexar Play Pro, the difference is negligible for most gaming needs. If you want to expand your storage without waiting, the SanDisk MicroSD Express is a solid choice.
3. Samsung MicroSD Express for Switch 2
The Official Option We Know Very Little About
Samsung's MicroSD Express card, sold directly by Nintendo, is still under wraps. While it carries the official Nintendo endorsement, details about its performance and capacity remain scarce. As more information becomes available, I'll update this article. If you value the peace of mind that comes with Nintendo's seal of approval, keep an eye on this option.
MicroSD Express FAQ
How fast is MicroSD Express?
MicroSD Express cards are significantly faster than older SD cards, utilizing PCI Express 3.1 technology, similar to SSDs in PCs. While full-sized SD Express cards can reach read speeds up to 3,940MB/s, MicroSD Express cards top out at 985MB/s. This 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.
