Top MicroSD Express Cards for Nintendo Switch 2

The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is just around the corner, 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. However, unlike the original Nintendo Switch, the new console requires a MicroSD Express card, which offers faster performance but comes at a higher price than traditional UHS-based SD cards.

Currently, MicroSD Express cards are scarce on the market, primarily because creative professionals haven't widely adopted them yet. But with the imminent launch of the Switch 2, expect a surge in availability of these cards.

Since the Nintendo Switch 2 isn't out yet, I haven't been able to test any of these MicroSD Express cards. However, they are manufactured by reputable brands known for 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 reasons, it's likely due to the need for faster storage performance. The console's built-in storage uses UFS flash, similar to that in smartphones, which is significantly faster than the eMMC drive in the original Switch. By requiring MicroSD Express, Nintendo ensures that 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 transferring screenshots and videos from the first-generation Switch. Unlike the PS5, which allows last-generation games to be stored on slower external drives, the Switch 2 doesn't offer any flexibility here. If you want to expand your storage, you'll need a MicroSD Express card.

1. Lexar Play Pro

The Best MicroSD Express Card

The Lexar Play Pro is the fastest and most capacious MicroSD Express card available, with read speeds up to 900MB/s and storage options up to 1TB. It's the top choice for expanding your Nintendo Switch 2 storage. 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 available on backorder until July.

2. SanDisk MicroSD Express

The MicroSD Express Card You Can Actually Buy Right Now

SanDisk, a well-known name in SD cards, offers a MicroSD Express card that's currently available for purchase. While it only comes in a 256GB capacity, doubling your console's storage is still beneficial, especially at a potentially lower price point. With read speeds up to 880MB/s, it's slightly slower than the Lexar Play Pro but still more than sufficient for gaming. If you need storage expansion now, 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 another option, though details on its specifications are scarce. It's reassuring to have an SD card with Nintendo's endorsement, but without knowing its speed or capacity options, it's hard to gauge its value. I've reached out to Samsung for more information and will update this article once I have more details.

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 top out at 985MB/s, which is still much faster than the MicroSD cards used in 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.