The Nintendo Switch 2 is on the horizon, and if you're planning to snag one, you should know it comes with a built-in storage of only 256GB. 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, the new console requires a MicroSD Express card, which is faster but pricier than traditional UHS-based SD cards.
While MicroSD Express cards have been around for a bit, they're not widely used by creative professionals yet. With the imminent launch of the Switch 2, expect a surge in these cards hitting the market to meet the demand.
Since the system isn't out yet, I haven't tested any of these Nintendo Switch 2 SD cards. However, they come from reputable manufacturers known for their high-quality storage solutions.
Why MicroSD Express?
The Nintendo Switch 2 mandates a MicroSD Express card for storage expansion, and while Nintendo hasn't detailed their reasoning, the benefits are clear. The built-in flash storage in the Switch 2 uses UFS flash, similar to what's in most smartphones. This is significantly faster than the eMMC drive in the original Switch, and it seems Nintendo wants to ensure developers can 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 lets you store last-generation games on slower external drives, the Switch 2 offers no such flexibility. If you want to expand your storage, you'll need a MicroSD Express card.
1. Lexar Play Pro
The Best MicroSD Express Card
Out of the few available MicroSD Express cards, the Lexar Play Pro stands out with its impressive performance. It offers read speeds up to 900MB/s and storage capacities up to 1TB, making it the top choice currently. However, due to high demand from the Switch 2, it's currently out of stock. Keep an eye out for restocks, particularly the 1TB version, which you can pre-order through Adorama, expected to be available in July.
2. SanDisk MicroSD Express
The MicroSD Express Card You Can Actually Buy Right Now
SanDisk's MicroSD Express card is a reliable option if you need storage expansion right away. It's widely available and comes from a trusted brand. However, it's limited to 256GB, matching the internal storage of the Switch 2. With a read speed of up to 880MB/s, it's slightly slower than the Lexar Play Pro, but the difference is negligible for gaming. If you're not in a rush, waiting for more options might be worthwhile.
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 a level of assurance. However, specifics like storage speeds and available capacities remain unknown. Only a 256GB model is currently advertised. While the details are scarce, opting for a card with Nintendo's endorsement can provide peace of mind. I've reached out to Samsung for more information and will update this article as soon as I have it.
MicroSD Express FAQ
How fast is MicroSD Express?
MicroSD Express is significantly faster than older SD cards due 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 tops out at 985MB/s, 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 limited lifespan. Depending on usage and environmental conditions, expect them to last 5-10 years. Always back up important data to ensure it's safe.
