Top MicroSD Express Cards for Nintendo Switch 2

The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is just around the corner, and if you're planning to get your hands on one, you should know it comes with only 256GB of built-in storage. If you want to enjoy a vast library of games without constantly uninstalling and reinstalling, you'll need to expand that storage. However, unlike the original Nintendo Switch, the new console requires a MicroSD Express card. These cards are faster but also pricier than the UHS-based SD cards used in the first Switch.

Currently, MicroSD Express cards are scarce on the market, primarily because creative professionals haven't yet found many uses for them. But with the Switch 2 set to launch soon, we expect to see a flood of these cards to meet the demand.

Since the system isn't out yet, I haven't tested these cards for the Nintendo Switch 2. However, they come from reputable manufacturers known for producing high-quality storage expansion solutions.

Why MicroSD Express?

The Nintendo Switch 2 mandates the use of a MicroSD Express card for storage expansion, although Nintendo hasn't fully explained its decision. The reason is likely due to the faster storage needs of the new console. The internal storage of the Switch 2 uses UFS flash, similar to what's found in smartphones, which is significantly faster than the eMMC drive in the original Switch. By requiring MicroSD Express, Nintendo ensures that developers can rely on consistent storage speed, whether games are stored internally or on an expansion card.

Standard MicroSD cards can only be used for loading screenshots and videos from the first-gen Switch. Unlike the PS5, which allows last-generation games to be stored on slower external drives, the Switch 2 offers no such flexibility. If you want 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. It supports read speeds up to 900MB/s and offers up to 1TB of storage. However, due to high demand from the upcoming Switch 2, it's currently out of stock everywhere. Keep an eye on it, especially 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 SD cards, has its own MicroSD Express offering. While it only goes up to 256GB, it's a reliable choice that effectively doubles your Switch 2's storage. It's slightly slower than the Lexar Play Pro, with read speeds up to 880MB/s, but the difference is negligible for most users. The SanDisk card is readily available and a good option if you want to buy now and forget about it.

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 expansion. However, details about its speed and available sizes are still under wraps. The 256GB model is what's being offered, but more information is expected soon. For now, the comfort of an officially endorsed card by Nintendo might be worth the wait.

MicroSD Express FAQ

How fast is MicroSD Express?

MicroSD Express cards are significantly faster than older SD cards, thanks to their use of PCI Express 3.1, the same interface used by SSDs in PCs. While full-sized SD Express cards can reach up to 3,940MB/s, MicroSD Express cards max 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 any SD card, MicroSD Express cards aren't designed for long-term data storage and have a limited lifespan. Their durability depends on usage and environmental conditions. Generally, you can expect a MicroSD Express card to last between 5-10 years before needing replacement. Always back up important data to ensure its safety.