Top MicroSD Express Cards for Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2 is just around the corner, and if you're planning to get one, you should know that it comes with only 256GB of internal storage. If you're someone who loves to have a plethora of games at your fingertips without constantly uninstalling and reinstalling, you'll definitely want to expand that storage. However, unlike its predecessor, the new console requires a MicroSD Express card for expansion. These cards are faster but also pricier than the traditional UHS-based SD cards.

While MicroSD Express cards have been available for some time, they haven't been widely adopted by creative professionals, leaving only a few options on the market. But with the imminent launch of the Switch 2, we can expect a surge in the availability of these cards.

Since the system isn't out yet, I haven't been able to test any of these Nintendo Switch 2 SD cards. However, they are produced by well-known manufacturers with a solid history of producing high-quality storage solutions.

Why MicroSD Express?

The Nintendo Switch 2 specifically requires a MicroSD Express card for storage expansion, though Nintendo hasn't fully explained this decision. It's likely because the console uses UFS flash storage, similar to that in smartphones, which is significantly faster than the eMMC drive found in the original Switch. By mandating MicroSD Express, Nintendo ensures that game developers can rely on consistent high-speed storage, whether the game is installed internally or on an expansion card.

Standard MicroSD cards are only useful for transferring screenshots and videos from your first-generation Switch. Unlike the PS5, which allows slower external drives for last-gen games, the Nintendo Switch 2 offers no such flexibility. To expand your storage, you'll need a MicroSD Express card.

1. Lexar Play Pro

The Best MicroSD Express Card

Out of the few MicroSD Express cards currently available, the Lexar Play Pro stands out with its speed and capacity. It supports read speeds up to 900MB/s and comes in sizes up to 1TB, making it the top choice for the Switch 2. However, due to high demand, it's currently out of stock. Keep an eye on it, especially the 1TB version, as stock is expected to stabilize. For now, you can place a backorder through Adorama, with availability projected for July.

2. SanDisk MicroSD Express

The MicroSD Express Card You Can Actually Buy Right Now

SanDisk, a well-established name in the world of SD cards, now offers a MicroSD Express card. While it tops out at 256GB, doubling your console's storage isn't a bad deal, especially if you can snag it at a good price. 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. The SanDisk MicroSD Express card is readily available, making it a great option if you want to buy now and not wait.

3. Samsung MicroSD Express for Switch 2

The Official Option We Know Very Little About

Samsung's MicroSD Express card for the Switch 2 is sold directly by Nintendo, adding a layer of official endorsement. Unfortunately, details on its specifications and whether it will come in sizes larger than 256GB are still under wraps. For those who value the assurance of a Nintendo-backed product, this card might be worth waiting for. 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 cards are significantly faster than their predecessors, thanks to their use of PCI Express 3.1, similar to SSDs in PCs. While full-sized SD Express cards can reach speeds up to 3,940MB/s, MicroSD Express cards top out at 985MB/s, which is still a vast improvement over the older MicroSD cards used by the original 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. Expect them to last between 5-10 years, depending on usage and environmental conditions. Always keep important data backed up to prevent loss.