The Nintendo Switch 2 is on the horizon, and if you're eager to get your hands on one, you should know that it comes with a built-in storage of just 256GB. If you're looking to load up on 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 are faster but also pricier than traditional UHS-based SD cards.
MicroSD Express cards have been around theoretically for some time, but they're still a rarity in the market, largely because creative professionals haven't fully embraced them yet. However, with the imminent launch of the Switch 2, we can expect a surge in the availability of these Express cards.
Please note that since the system isn't out yet, I haven't had the chance to test any of these Nintendo Switch 2 SD cards. However, they come from reputable manufacturers known for their quality 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 elaborated on their reasoning, it's clear they're aiming for faster storage solutions. The built-in flash storage of the Switch 2 uses UFS flash, similar to what powers most smartphones, which is significantly faster than the eMMC drive found in the original Switch. This suggests Nintendo wants to ensure that games run at high speeds, whether they're stored internally or on an expansion card.
Regular MicroSD cards are only suitable 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, Nintendo isn't offering any flexibility here. To expand the storage of your Nintendo Switch 2, you'll need a MicroSD Express card.
1. Lexar Play Pro
The Best MicroSD Express Card
Out of the two available MicroSD Express cards, the Lexar Play Pro stands out as the fastest and most capacious option. With read speeds up to 900MB/s and storage options up to 1TB, it's currently the top MicroSD Express card on the market. However, due to high demand spurred by the Switch 2, it's currently out of stock everywhere.
As stock stabilizes and the initial excitement around the Nintendo Switch 2 accessories wanes, the Lexar Play Pro should become more available. If you're after the best SD card for your Switch, keep an eye on the Lexar Play Pro, particularly the 1TB version. For now, your best bet is to order it through Adorama, where it's on backorder until July.
2. SanDisk MicroSD Express
The MicroSD Express Card You Can Actually Buy Right Now
SanDisk is a well-known name in the world of SD cards, and they've now released a MicroSD Express card. Unlike the Lexar version, it doesn't have a fancy name and tops out at 256GB, which matches the internal storage of the Nintendo Switch 2.
Doubling your storage capacity isn't a bad deal, especially if you can snag this card at a good price. It's slightly slower than the Lexar Play Pro, with read speeds up to 880MB/s, but the difference is minor enough that you won't notice it when loading games like Mario Kart World. The SanDisk MicroSD Express card is currently more readily available, making it a great choice if you want to buy and forget. However, if you can wait until you have the console in hand, more options will be available.
3. Samsung MicroSD Express for Switch 2
The Official Option We Know Very Little About
Samsung's MicroSD Express card for the Switch 2 isn't out yet, but it's being sold directly by Nintendo, which adds to its credibility. The downside is that we have very little information about its specifications or whether the 256GB model will be the only one available.
There's a certain comfort in choosing an SD card endorsed by Nintendo, regardless of its actual specs. I've reached out to Samsung for more details on this card and will update this article as soon as I receive any information.
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 technology 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 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 shouldn't expect a MicroSD Express card to last more than 5-10 years before needing replacement, so it's wise to back up important data regularly.
