Top MicroSD Express Cards for Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2 is right around the corner, and if you're planning on grabbing one, it's important to know that it comes with only 256GB of built-in storage. If you want to enjoy a variety of games without the hassle of constantly uninstalling and reinstalling, you'll definitely need to expand that storage. However, unlike the original Nintendo Switch, the new console requires a MicroSD Express card – which is faster but also more expensive than the UHS-based SD cards used previously.

MicroSD Express cards have been around for a while, but there are only a few options on the market right now, primarily because creative professionals haven't found many uses for them yet. With the Switch 2 launching soon, we can expect a flood of new Express cards to meet the demand.

Keep in mind that since the system isn't out yet, I haven't had the chance to test any of these Nintendo Switch 2 SD cards. However, most are from reputable manufacturers known for producing high-quality storage expansion cards.

Why MicroSD Express?

The Nintendo Switch 2 mandates the use of a MicroSD Express card for storage expansion. While Nintendo hasn't fully explained this decision, it's clear they want to ensure faster storage capabilities. The flash storage in the Switch 2 uses UFS, similar to what powers most smartphones, which is much faster than the eMMC drive in the original Switch. This means developers can rely on consistent storage speeds, whether games are stored internally or on an expansion card.

Unlike some other devices, like the PS5, which allow for slower external drives to store last-generation games, the Switch 2 doesn't offer this 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

Out of the few MicroSD Express cards available, the Lexar Play Pro stands out as the fastest and most capacious option. It supports read times up to 900MB/s and offers storage space up to 1TB, making it the top choice for the Nintendo Switch 2. However, due to the increased demand for Switch 2 accessories, it's currently out of stock. Keep an eye on it, especially the 1TB version, and consider ordering through Adorama, which has it 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, now offers a MicroSD Express card. While it only goes up to 256GB, doubling your Switch 2's storage is still a good deal, especially if you can snag it at a lower price. It's not as fast as the Lexar Play Pro, with a read speed up to 880MB/s, but the difference is minor. Plus, it's readily available, making it a convenient choice if you want to buy and forget.

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 still under wraps. While it's reassuring to have Nintendo's endorsement, we don't yet know its storage speeds or whether the 256GB model will be the only option available. I've reached out to Samsung for more information and will update this article as soon as I hear back.

MicroSD Express FAQ

How fast is MicroSD Express?

MicroSD Express is significantly faster than older SD cards, thanks to its use of PCI Express 3.1, the same interface used by SSDs in PCs. While full-sized SD Express cards can reach read speeds up to 3,940MB/s, MicroSD Express cards top out at 985MB/s, which 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 longevity depends on usage and environmental factors, but generally, you can expect them to last between 5-10 years. Always keep important data backed up to ensure you don't lose anything important.