The Nintendo Switch 2 is on the horizon, and if you're planning to get one, you should know it comes with just 256GB of internal storage. If you want to enjoy a variety of games without the hassle of constantly uninstalling and reinstalling, you'll need to expand that storage. However, 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.
Although MicroSD Express cards have been around for a while, there are only a few options available on the market right now, mainly because creative professionals haven't widely adopted them. With the imminent launch of the Switch 2, we can expect a flood of these cards to meet the demand.
Since the system isn't out yet, I haven't personally tested any of these Nintendo Switch 2 SD cards. However, they are produced by reputable manufacturers known for their 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 fully explained this decision, it's clear they want to ensure faster storage performance. The console's built-in storage uses UFS flash, similar to what's found 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 transferring screenshots and videos from your first-gen Switch. Unlike the PS5, which allows slower external drives for last-generation games, the Switch 2 offers no such flexibility. If you want to expand the storage on your Nintendo Switch 2, you'll need a MicroSD Express card.
1. Lexar Play Pro
The Best MicroSD Express Card
Out of the available MicroSD Express cards, the Lexar Play Pro stands out with its superior speed and capacity. It supports read speeds up to 900MB/s and offers storage options up to 1TB, making it the top choice currently. However, due to high demand from the upcoming Switch 2, 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 the SD card market, now offers a MicroSD Express card. While it maxes out at 256GB, effectively doubling your Switch 2's internal storage, it's more affordable and readily available. With read speeds up to 880MB/s, it's slightly slower than the Lexar Play Pro but still performs admirably. If you want to secure additional 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, adds an official touch to your storage expansion. However, details on its specifications and available capacities are sparse. While it's reassuring to have Nintendo's endorsement, we'll have to wait for more information on its performance. I've reached out to Samsung for more details and will update this article as soon as I receive them.
MicroSD Express FAQ
How fast is MicroSD Express?
MicroSD Express is significantly faster than older SD cards, thanks to its use of PCI Express 3.1, the same interface used by 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 aren't designed for long-term data storage and have a limited lifespan. Their durability depends on usage and environmental conditions. You can expect a MicroSD Express card to last between 5-10 years before needing replacement, so always keep your important data backed up.
