The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is almost here, and if you're planning to snag one, it's important to know that it comes with just 256GB of internal storage. For gamers looking to dive into a vast library of titles without the hassle of constantly uninstalling and reinstalling games, expanding that storage is a must. However, the new console requires a MicroSD Express card for expansion, which is faster but pricier than traditional UHS-based SD cards.
MicroSD Express cards have been around for a bit, but they haven't caught on widely among creative professionals, leaving only a few options on the market. With the imminent launch of the Switch 2, we can expect a flood of these cards to meet the demand.
Since the system isn't out yet, I haven't had the chance to test any of these cards for the Nintendo Switch 2. However, the majority come from trusted manufacturers known for their high-quality storage solutions.
Why MicroSD Express?
The Nintendo Switch 2 mandates the use of a MicroSD Express card for storage expansion, though the reasoning behind this decision remains somewhat unclear. It's evident, however, that Nintendo aims for faster storage solutions. The internal flash storage in the Switch 2 uses UFS flash, similar to what powers modern smartphones, which is significantly quicker than the eMMC drive in the original Switch. By requiring MicroSD Express cards, Nintendo ensures that developers can rely on consistent high-speed storage, whether the game is on the internal drive or an expansion card.
Regular MicroSD cards can only be used 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 offers no such flexibility with the Switch 2. If you're looking to expand your storage, a MicroSD Express card is your only option.
1. Lexar Play Pro
The Best MicroSD Express Card
The Lexar Play Pro stands out as the fastest and most capacious MicroSD Express card currently available, with read speeds up to 900MB/s and storage options up to 1TB. While it's the priciest option and currently hard to find in stock due to the high demand spurred by the Switch 2, it's definitely worth keeping an eye on. If you're after the best performance, 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 is a well-known name in the SD card market, and its MicroSD Express card offers a reliable solution for Switch 2 users. While it's limited to 256GB, which matches the console's internal storage, it's a great way to double your space. With a read speed of up to 880MB/s, it's slightly slower than the Lexar Play Pro but still more than adequate for gaming. Plus, it's readily available, making it a practical choice if you want to expand your storage right away.
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 an official touch to your storage solution. However, specifics about its performance and available capacities remain under wraps. The comfort of having Nintendo's endorsement might sway some buyers, but we'll need more details on its specs before making a full assessment. I've reached out to Samsung for more information and will update this article as soon as I receive it.
MicroSD Express FAQ
How fast is MicroSD Express?
MicroSD Express is significantly faster than traditional 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 up to 3,940MB/s, MicroSD Express cards top out at 985MB/s. This 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 have a limited lifespan, typically lasting 5-10 years depending on usage and environmental conditions. It's crucial to back up important data regularly to avoid losing anything valuable.
