If you're preparing for the Nintendo Switch 2 launch or simply seeking high-speed storage, this Lexar deal deserves your attention. The Lexar 512GB Play PRO MicroSD Express Card has restocked and dropped to $89.92 on Amazon – a $10 discount from its $99.99 MSRP.
Lexar 512GB Play PRO microSDXC Express Card
$99.99 save 10% $89.92 at Amazon
This represents one of few high-capacity MicroSD Express options available, with confirmed compatibility for Nintendo's next-gen console. Notably, Nintendo confirmed the Switch 2 exclusively supports MicroSD Express – rendering existing Switch memory cards obsolete regardless of remaining capacity.
The performance leap comes from MicroSD Express adopting the PCIe interface used in modern NVMe SSDs. The Lexar Play PRO delivers read speeds up to 985MB/s – approximately 10x faster than current Switch UHS-I cards. This eliminates load time bottlenecks and ensures smooth performance with larger, more demanding game installations.
The 512GB capacity hits the pricing sweet spot between storage and affordability. With confirmed Switch 2 games exceeding 20GB, the console's base 256GB storage won't suffice. While 1TB Express cards approach $200, this mid-range option provides practical expansion. A 256GB variant also available at $47.67 offers budget-conscious alternatives.
Since the Switch 2 announcement, MicroSD Express cards have experienced high demand and frequent stockouts. Early adopters should secure storage now to avoid shortages near launch. For next-gen portable gaming, speed isn't optional – and this Lexar deal currently offers the most cost-effective performance solution.
Switch 2 Game Storage Requirements
Nintendo's Japanese store listings reveal surprising variance in Switch 2 game sizes:
- Mario Kart World: 23.4 GB
- Donkey Kong Bananza: 10 GB
- Nintendo Classics: GameCube app: 3.5 GB
- Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition ＋ Jamboree TV: 7.7 GB
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition ＋ Star Crossed World: 5.7 GB
While Mario Kart consumes about 10% of base storage, heavier titles like Cyberpunk 2077 (64GB) require over 25% of the internal capacity. These figures validate the importance of expandable storage for Switch 2 users.
Stay updated on Switch 2 preorders by bookmarking IGN's guide. Follow IGN Deals on Twitter/X or Bluesky for instant notifications when console, game, or accessory listings go live.
