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're an avid gamer looking to avoid the hassle of constantly uninstalling and reinstalling games, you'll definitely want to expand that storage. Unlike the original Nintendo Switch, the new console requires a MicroSD Express card, which, while faster, comes at a higher price than other UHS-based SD cards.
MicroSD Express cards have been around for a bit, but they're still a niche product, mainly because creative professionals haven't found many uses for them yet. With the Switch 2 set to launch soon, we can expect a flood of these cards to hit the market to meet the demand.
Since the system isn't out yet, I haven't had the chance to test any of these Nintendo Switch 2 SD cards. However, the cards mentioned here come from well-known manufacturers with a solid reputation for producing reliable storage expansion cards.
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 flash storage uses UFS technology, similar to what's found in modern smartphones. This is much quicker than the eMMC drive in the original Switch, and Nintendo likely wants developers to rely on this speed, whether games are stored internally or on an expansion card.
Standard MicroSD cards are only useful for transferring 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 your storage, you'll need a MicroSD Express card.
1. Lexar Play Pro
The Best MicroSD Express Card
Lexar Play Pro
See it at B&H Photo and Video
PROS: 1TB option, fastest MicroSD Express card currently available
CONS: The priciest option right now
Among the few available MicroSD Express cards, the Lexar Play Pro stands out as the fastest and offers the most storage space. With read speeds up to 900MB/s and a capacity of up to 1TB, it's the top choice. However, due to the high demand from the Switch 2 launch, it's currently out of stock everywhere. Keep an eye out for restocks, 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 MicroSD Express
See it at Amazon
PROS: Easily purchasable now, reliable brand
CONS: Limited to 256GB of extra storage
SanDisk has a long history of producing quality SD cards, and their MicroSD Express card is no exception. While it only offers up to 256GB, which matches the Switch 2's internal storage, it's a good option for doubling your space. The read speed is up to 880MB/s, slightly slower than the Lexar Play Pro but still very capable. It's readily available, making it a convenient choice if you don't want to wait.
3. Samsung MicroSD Express for Switch 2
The Official Option We Know Very Little About
Nintendo Samsung MicroSD Express
See it at Best Buy
PROS: Official Nintendo option, made by Samsung
CONS: Limited information on specs
Samsung's MicroSD Express card, sold directly by Nintendo, is not yet available. While details like storage speeds and capacity options are still under wraps, the card's official endorsement by Nintendo adds to its appeal. I've reached out to Samsung for more information and will update this article as soon as 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. This 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 aren't designed for long-term data storage and have a finite lifespan. Their durability depends on usage and environmental conditions. You can expect them to last between 5-10 years before needing replacement, so it's wise to back up important data regularly.
