Top MicroSD Express Cards for Nintendo Switch 2

The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is just around the corner, and if you're planning to get your hands on one, it's important to know that it comes with a built-in storage of only 256GB. To enjoy a seamless gaming experience without the hassle of constantly uninstalling and reinstalling games, you'll need to expand that storage. However, unlike its predecessor, the new console requires a MicroSD Express card, which is not only faster but also more expensive than traditional UHS-based SD cards.

MicroSD Express cards, such as the Play Pro and Samsung MicroSD Express, have been available for a while but haven't been widely adopted by creative professionals. With the imminent launch of the Switch 2, we can expect a surge in the availability of these cards to meet the demand. Since the system hasn't been released yet, I haven't had the chance to test any of these cards for the Nintendo Switch 2. However, they are manufactured by reputable companies 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. Although Nintendo hasn't explicitly stated their reasoning, it's clear that they aim to leverage faster storage capabilities. The console is equipped with UFS flash storage, similar to that found in modern smartphones, which is significantly faster than the eMMC drive in the original Switch. By requiring MicroSD Express, Nintendo ensures that game developers can rely on consistent high-speed storage, whether games are stored internally or on an expansion card.

It's worth noting that standard MicroSD cards can only be used for transferring screenshots and videos from the first-generation Switch. Unlike the PS5, which allows slower external drives for storing older games, the Switch 2 offers no such flexibility. If you want to expand your storage, a MicroSD Express card is a must-have.

1. Lexar Play Pro

The Best MicroSD Express Card

Out of the 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 the top choice for expanding your Switch 2's storage. However, due to the high demand driven by the Switch 2's launch, it's currently out of stock. Keep an eye on it, particularly the 1TB model, 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 name in the SD card market, now offers a MicroSD Express card. Although it's limited to 256GB, which matches the Switch 2's internal storage, it's a reliable option for doubling your storage capacity. With read speeds of up to 880MB/s, it's slightly slower than the Lexar Play Pro but still sufficiently fast for gaming. The SanDisk card is readily available, making it a convenient choice if you want to expand your storage immediately.

3. Samsung MicroSD Express for Switch 2

The Official Option We Know Very Little About

Samsung's MicroSD Express card, sold directly by Nintendo, is another option to consider. Although details about its storage speeds and available capacities are scarce, the assurance of an official Nintendo product can be reassuring. I've reached out to Samsung for more information and will update this article as soon as I have more details.

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, similar to the interface used by SSDs in PCs. While full-sized SD Express cards can achieve 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 all SD cards, MicroSD Express cards have a limited lifespan and are not intended for long-term data storage. Their durability can vary based on usage and environmental conditions. You can expect a MicroSD Express card to last between 5-10 years before needing replacement. Always ensure to back up important data to avoid loss.