Nintendo unveiled a wealth of exciting details about the Switch 2 during a recent 60-minute Nintendo Direct. Key highlights included the console's price of $449.99, its launch date set for June 5, 2025, and an array of new games. Notably, Nintendo confirmed that the Switch 2 will exclusively support microSD Express Cards for storage expansion.
This means that when you get your hands on the Switch 2 this summer, you won't be able to use your existing storage cards. To boost your storage, you'll need to invest in microSD Express cards. SanDisk currently offers options on Amazon, including a 128GB card for $44.99 and a 256GB card for $59.99.
Switch 2 Compatible### SanDisk 256GB microSD Express Card
1$64.99 save 8%$59.99 at AmazonSanDisk 256GB microSD Express Card - $59.99 (was $64.99)SanDisk 128GB microSD Express Card - $44.99 (was $49.99)
The Nintendo Switch 2 comes equipped with 256GB of internal storage—a significant leap from the original Switch's 32GB. This upgrade might mean you won't need to expand your storage immediately. However, keep in mind that Switch 2 games are likely to be larger than those on the original console.
For instance, one of the largest Switch games, Tears of the Kingdom, occupied 16GB, but its Switch 2 counterpart and games like Mario Kart World could demand much more space. While specific file sizes for Switch 2 games remain unconfirmed, it's safe to assume they'll require considerable storage. Unlike the original Switch, which supported standard microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards, the Switch 2 will only support microSD Express cards.
Why MicroSD Express for Switch 2?
Nintendo's decision to use microSD Express cards for the Switch 2 represents a significant shift in storage technology. MicroSD Express cards utilize PCIe and NVMe technology, offering speeds up to 985 MB/s—nearly ten times faster than traditional microSD cards, which top out at 104 MB/s using the UHS-I interface.
This speed boost is why the Switch 2 will only support microSD Express cards, ensuring the system can handle larger and more demanding games without performance hiccups. However, there's a catch: these cards are more expensive. A 128GB SD card for the original Switch might cost around $10-15, while a microSD Express card of the same capacity can set you back about $45.
MicroSD Express cards are less common than standard microSDs, with brands like SanDisk and Samsung leading the production. While Nintendo's choice of microSD Express aims to enhance performance and future-proof the console, it does mean higher costs for expandable storage.
If you're planning to purchase a Switch 2, be prepared to budget for these faster, pricier memory cards. For a comprehensive overview of everything revealed during today's Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, you can click here.
