The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch soon, and it's crucial to know that it comes with a built-in storage capacity of only 256GB. If you're an avid gamer who wants to enjoy a variety of games without the hassle of constant uninstalling and reinstalling, you'll need to consider expanding that storage. However, unlike the original Nintendo Switch, the new console requires a MicroSD Express card, which offers faster performance but comes at a higher cost compared to traditional UHS-based SD cards.
MicroSD Express cards have been available for some time, but they 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 Nintendo Switch 2 hasn't been released yet, I haven't had the chance to test any of these MicroSD Express cards. However, they are produced by reputable 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 Nintendo hasn't fully explained this decision. It's likely due to the faster storage capabilities they offer. The console's internal storage uses UFS flash, similar to what's found in smartphones, which is significantly faster than the eMMC drive in the original Switch. This ensures that game developers can rely on consistent high-speed storage, whether the game is stored internally or on an expansion card.
Regular MicroSD cards can only be used for transferring screenshots and videos from your first-generation Switch. Unlike the PS5, which allows last-generation games to be stored on slower external drives, 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
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, it's the top choice for expanding your Nintendo Switch 2 storage. However, due to high demand, it's currently out of stock. Keep an eye on it, especially the 1TB version, and consider ordering through Adorama, where it's available 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, offers a MicroSD Express card that's readily available. While it's limited to 256GB, which matches the internal storage of the Switch 2, it's a reliable option for doubling your storage capacity. With read speeds up to 880MB/s, it's slightly slower than the Lexar Play Pro but still offers excellent performance. If you want to secure a card immediately, the SanDisk MicroSD Express is a solid choice.
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. While specific details about its performance and storage options are scarce, the official endorsement from Nintendo adds credibility. I've reached out to Samsung for more information and will update this article once I have more details.
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, similar to 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 have a limited lifespan, typically lasting 5-10 years depending on usage and environmental conditions. It's important to back up important data regularly to ensure it's not lost.
