Top MicroSD Express Cards for Nintendo Switch 2

If you're eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2, it's essential to know that it comes equipped with a mere 256GB of internal storage. For gamers looking to maximize their library without constantly uninstalling and reinstalling titles, expanding that storage is a must. However, unlike its predecessor, the new console exclusively supports MicroSD Express cards—these are faster but significantly pricier than traditional UHS-based SD cards.

Currently, Play Pro MicroSD Express cards have been around conceptually for a while, but only a handful are available due to limited demand from creative professionals. With the Switch 2 launch looming, expect a surge in Express card offerings to meet this growing need.

Please note that since the system hasn’t launched yet, I haven’t personally tested any of these cards. Yet, most come from reputable brands known for producing high-quality storage solutions.

Why Choose MicroSD Express?

The Nintendo Switch 2 mandates the use of MicroSD Express cards for storage expansion, a decision Nintendo hasn’t publicly justified. However, it’s easy to surmise the rationale: faster storage ensures consistent performance regardless of where the game resides—internally or externally.

Unlike PlayStation 5, which permits storing last-gen games on slower external drives, Nintendo offers no flexibility here. To expand your Nintendo Switch 2 storage, you’ll need a MicroSD Express card.

1. Lexar Play Pro

The Top MicroSD Express Card

### Lexar Play Pro

1Check it out at B&H Photo and VideoPROS1TB option, fastest read speedsCONSThe costliest choice right nowAt present, among the two available MicroSD Express cards, the Lexar Play Pro stands out with its superior speed and capacity. Boasting read speeds up to 900MB/s and storage capacities up to 1TB, it’s currently the best option available.

However, due to high demand ahead of the Switch 2 release, finding it in stock has proven challenging. Expect this to stabilize as excitement cools and supply chains adjust. If you’re keen on securing the best SD card for your Switch, keep an eye on the Lexar Play Pro, particularly the 1TB variant. For now, ordering through Adorama might secure your purchase, as they list it on backorder until July.

2. SanDisk MicroSD Express

The Readily Available MicroSD Express Card

### SanDisk MicroSD Express

1View it on AmazonPROSEasily accessible, reliable brandCONSLimited to 256GB of additional storageWith numerous SanDisk SD cards already in my collection, it’s no surprise given the brand’s dominance in the SD card market. SanDisk now offers a MicroSD Express card, albeit without a flashy moniker and capped at 256GB—a storage size identical to the Switch 2’s internal memory.

Despite the limited capacity, doubling your storage isn’t a bad deal, especially if you find this card priced attractively. While slightly slower than the Lexar Play Pro, with read speeds reaching up to 880MB/s, the difference is negligible during everyday gameplay.

Currently, the SanDisk MicroSD Express card is far more accessible. If you prefer convenience over the highest performance, this is a solid choice. Still, if you’re patient, more options will emerge closer to the console’s launch.

3. Samsung MicroSD Express for Switch 2

The Official Option With Uncertain Specs

### Nintendo Samsung MicroSD Express

0Purchase it from Best BuyPROSNintendo-endorsed, quality assuredCONSLimited information availableSamsung’s MicroSD Express card remains untested, as it hasn’t hit the market yet. Being the official Nintendo-branded card, it carries significant credibility. However, specifics such as storage speed and availability of the 256GB version remain unclear.

I’ve reached out to Samsung for further details and will update this guide as new information becomes available.

MicroSD Express FAQ

How Fast Is MicroSD Express?

MicroSD Express cards leverage PCI Express 3.1 technology, enabling theoretical speeds far exceeding older SD formats. While full-sized SD Express cards can reach read speeds of up to 3,940MB/s, MicroSD Express cards max out at 985MB/s. Although this is slower than NVMe SSDs in gaming PCs, it’s still a vast improvement over the original Switch’s MicroSD cards.

How Long Will a MicroSD Express Card Last?

Like all SD cards, MicroSD Express cards aren’t designed for long-term archival purposes and have a finite lifespan. Environmental conditions and usage patterns influence longevity. Expect these cards to last approximately 5-10 years before requiring replacement. Always ensure critical data is backed up.