The Nintendo Switch 2 is just around the corner, and if you're planning to get one, you should know it comes with only 256GB of built-in storage. If you're looking to load up on games without the hassle of constantly uninstalling and reinstalling, you'll need to expand that storage. Unlike the original Nintendo Switch, the new console requires a MicroSD Express card, which is faster but more expensive than other UHS-based SD cards.
MicroSD Express cards have been around for a while, but there are only a few on the market right now, as creative professionals haven't found much use for them yet. However, with the Switch 2 launching soon, we can expect a flood of Express cards to meet the demand.
Since the system isn't out yet, I haven't tested any of these Nintendo Switch 2 SD cards. However, most come from reputable manufacturers known for producing excellent storage expansion cards.
Why MicroSD Express?
The Nintendo Switch 2 mandates the use of a MicroSD Express card for storage expansion. While Nintendo hasn't fully explained this decision, it's clear they want to ensure faster storage performance. The built-in flash storage in the system is UFS flash, similar to what's used in smartphones, which is much faster than the eMMC drive in the original Switch. Nintendo likely wants developers to rely on this speed, whether the game is stored internally or on an expansion card.
Regular MicroSD cards can only be used for loading 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. If you want to expand the Nintendo Switch 2's storage, you'll need a MicroSD Express card.
1. Lexar Play Pro
The Best MicroSD Express Card
Out of the two MicroSD Express cards currently available, the Lexar Play Pro stands out as the fastest and most capacious option. With read speeds up to 900MB/s and storage up to 1TB, it's the top choice right now. However, due to high demand from the Switch 2 launch, it's currently out of stock everywhere. Keep an eye on it, especially the 1TB version, and consider ordering through Adorama, where it's on backorder until July.
2. SanDisk MicroSD Express
The MicroSD Express Card You Can Actually Buy Right Now
SanDisk, a well-known SD card manufacturer, now offers a MicroSD Express card. While it only goes up to 256GB, doubling your storage isn't a bad deal, especially if you can find it at a lower price. It's not as fast as the Lexar Play Pro, with read speeds up to 880MB/s, but the difference is minor. The SanDisk MicroSD Express card is readily available, making it a good choice if you want to buy now and forget about it. If you're willing to wait, more options will be available once the console is in hand.
3. Samsung MicroSD Express for Switch 2
The Official Option We Know Very Little About
Samsung's MicroSD Express card isn't out yet, but it's being sold directly by Nintendo, adding some credibility. However, we don't know its storage speeds or if the 256GB model will be the only option. Buying an SD card with Nintendo's seal of approval can provide peace of mind, regardless of the actual specs. I've reached out to Samsung for more information and will update this article once I have it.
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, similar to SSDs in PCs. While full-sized SD Express cards can reach read speeds up to 3,940MB/s, MicroSD Express cards max out at 985MB/s, which 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 the environment and handling. You can expect a MicroSD Express card to last 5-10 years before needing replacement, so always back up important data.
