With the highly anticipated release of the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, gamers should be aware that the console comes with a built-in storage capacity of just 256GB. If you're planning to stock up on games without the hassle of constantly uninstalling and reinstalling, you'll need to expand that storage. Unlike its predecessor, the Nintendo Switch 2 mandates the use of a MicroSD Express card for this purpose. These cards are faster, but also more expensive than the UHS-based SD cards used by the original Switch.

MicroSD Express cards have been available for some time, but they haven't seen widespread use among creative professionals until now. With the imminent launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, we can expect a surge in the availability of these cards. Keep in mind, since the system isn't out yet, I haven't personally tested any of these cards. However, they come from reputable manufacturers known for producing high-quality storage solutions.

Why MicroSD Express?

The Nintendo Switch 2's requirement for a MicroSD Express card for storage expansion might seem puzzling at first, but it makes sense when you consider the console's internal storage technology. The system uses UFS flash storage, similar to what's found in modern smartphones, which is much faster than the eMMC drive in the original Switch. Nintendo likely wants to ensure that developers can rely on consistent storage speeds, whether games are stored internally or on an expansion card.

Traditional MicroSD cards are only suitable for transferring screenshots and videos from the first-generation Switch. Unlike the PS5, which allows slower external drives for last-generation games, the Nintendo Switch 2 doesn't offer any alternatives for storage expansion. If you want to increase your storage, you'll need a MicroSD Express card.

1. Lexar Play Pro

The Best MicroSD Express Card

Among the few MicroSD Express cards currently available, the Lexar Play Pro stands out as the fastest and most capacious option. 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 difficult to find in stock. Keep an eye on retailers like 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 SD card manufacturing, offers a MicroSD Express card that you can easily purchase right now. While it's limited to 256GB, effectively doubling your Switch 2's internal storage, it's a reliable choice. With read speeds up to 880MB/s, it's slightly slower than the Lexar Play Pro but still fast enough for seamless gameplay. If you're looking for immediate availability, this is a solid option.

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 performance and capacities are scarce at this point. It's currently available in a 256GB model, and while specifics are unknown, the backing of Nintendo and Samsung lends it credibility. I've reached out to Samsung for more information and will update this article as soon as I have it.

MicroSD Express FAQ

How fast is MicroSD Express?

MicroSD Express cards are significantly faster than traditional 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 read speeds up to 3,940MB/s, MicroSD Express cards top out at 985MB/s. This is still much faster than the MicroSD cards used by 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 factors. Expect a MicroSD Express card to last between 5-10 years before needing replacement, and always back up important data.