If you're a Nintendo Switch owner, you've likely noticed how quickly the internal storage fills up. With the standard Switch offering just 32GB and the upgraded Switch OLED providing 64GB, it becomes a challenge when many of the best Switch games require an average of 10GB or more. It's easy to run out of space, especially if you're an avid eShop user. That's why a Switch microSDXC card, such as the SanDisk 512GB Extreme, is virtually indispensable.

Inserting an SD card into your Switch allows you to store a plethora of games without the hassle of deleting older ones to free up space. You can opt for cards with storage capacities reaching up to 1TB! It's important to note, however, that your game save data remains stored in the console's system memory by default. With the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 promising backwards compatibility, now is an ideal time to expand your storage.

TL;DR - These are the Best SD Cards for Switch:

Our Top Pick### SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card

5See it at Amazon### Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card

2See it at Amazon### SanDisk 1TB Ultra A1 microSDXC Card

2See it at Amazon### SanDisk256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

1See it at Amazon### SanDisk 1TB microSDXC Card - The Legend of Zelda

1See it at AmazonSD cards vary in size, speed, and price. For the best gaming experience on your Switch, choose a card with UHS-I compatibility and high transfer speeds to ensure smooth gameplay and faster loading times.

If you're seeking the best SD card for your Nintendo Switch, you're in the right spot. We've selected top-notch SD cards that integrate seamlessly with your console, perfect for installing numerous games, saving video clips, or transferring data to other devices.

1. SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card

Best SD Card for Nintendo Switch

Our Top Pick### SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card

5The perfect blend of speed and storage. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity512GB Transfer SpeedsUp to 190MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSFast 190MB/s read speeds ReliableCONSNo warranty listedSanDisk's reputation for reliability and durability makes the SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card an excellent choice. With various storage options available, you can maximize your Nintendo Switch's storage, allowing you to install numerous games, save files, and screenshots without needing to delete others. The 512GB model offers incredible value, but if you're looking to invest more, a 1TB version is also available.

This card comes with an adapter, making it versatile for use across other devices. It offers impressive data transfer speeds of up to 190MB/s, enabling quick game downloads directly onto your SD card. Its durable design is shockproof, temperature-proof, waterproof, and x-ray-proof, ensuring your game files remain safe, especially when traveling with your Switch.

2. Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card

Best Budget SD Card for Nintendo Switch

### Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card

2A cost-effective option that meets the Switch's minimum requirements, albeit with slightly slower transfer speeds. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity512GB Transfer SpeedsUp to 130MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSWide range of sizesDurableCONSSlower speedsOn a budget? The Samsung EVO Select A2 SD card is a solid pick. Priced at around $40, it features a UHS-I interface and an A2 rating for optimized performance. Although its transfer speeds are slower, they align well with Nintendo's cap around 95MB/s, ensuring no significant difference in game load times compared to pricier options. The card's versatility shines when used with other devices, where faster speeds are beneficial.

With 512GB of storage, you have ample space for a large gaming library and gameplay clips. Options range from 64GB to 1TB, catering to various needs. Its durability is impressive, with waterproofing, resistance to extreme temperatures, X-rays, and magnets, and the ability to withstand drops over 16 feet, making it more resilient than the Switch itself.

3. SanDisk 1TB Ultra A1 microSDXC Card

Best High Capacity SD Card for Nintendo Switch

### SanDisk 1TB Ultra A1 microSDXC Card

2With 1TB of storage, the SanDisk Ultra A1 SD Card is ideal for the Nintendo Switch, offering space for over 75 titles. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity1TB Transfer SpeedsUp to 150MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSHigh capacityFast downloadsCONSPriceyThe SanDisk Ultra A1 SD card, with its 1TB capacity, is perfect for the Nintendo Switch. Its transfer speeds of up to 150MB/s ensure quick downloads. With most Switch games under 15GB, this card provides more than enough space, accommodating over 75 titles. It's also great for storing numerous screenshots and video captures.

4. SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

Best High Speed SD Card for Nintendo Switch

### SanDisk256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

1Utilizing SanDisk QuickFlow Technology for optimal file performance. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity256GB Transfer SpeedsUp to 200MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSSanDisk QuickFlow Technology optimizes filesTop transfer speedsCONSSmaller storage spaceFor those seeking the fastest SD card for their Switch, the SanDisk Extreme PRO SD card is the top choice. Its QuickFlow Technology optimizes files for superior performance, significantly reducing load times for game launches and downloads. With 256GB, you can install a substantial game library. Although the Switch doesn't support 4K, this card's high transfer speeds are perfect for quickly moving 1080p content to other devices.

5. SanDisk 1TB microSDXC Card - The Legend of Zelda

Best SD Card Design for Nintendo Switch

### SanDisk 1TB microSDXC Card - The Legend of Zelda

1A unique design, ample storage, and solid speeds make this a standout choice. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity1TB Transfer SpeedsUp to 100MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSUnique designOfficially licensed by Nintendo CONSSlower speeds than other cardsThe Zelda-themed SD card boasts a striking design featuring the iconic triforce symbol. With 1TB of storage, you won't run out of space for new games. While its speeds are lower than some alternatives, it's the only card on our list officially licensed by Nintendo, making it a great choice for fans looking to showcase their love for the franchise.

How To Choose an SD Card for Nintendo Switch

Investing in an SD card for your Nintendo Switch can transform your gaming experience. When selecting an SD card, consider several factors beyond just storage capacity. Depending on your game library, a 128GB card might suffice, but larger games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which require 16GB, may necessitate more space. Remember, save files and screenshots also contribute to the overall storage needs.

Ensure the SD card is compatible with the Switch, which supports microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards. Avoid SD or miniSD cards, as they won't work. Transfer speed is another crucial factor; higher speeds enhance your gameplay experience. Look for cards with a UHS (Ultra High Speed) class like UHS-1 for optimal performance.

Nintendo Switch SD Card FAQs

Do you need an SD card for the Switch?

A microSD card is essential for the Nintendo Switch. Without it, you're limited to installing just a few games due to the console's modest internal storage. An SD card allows you to store dozens of titles without the need to delete games to free up space. While Nintendo games are typically smaller, many third-party titles exceed 32GB, the storage capacity of the standard Switch and Switch Lite.

How much storage do you actually need?

For most users, an SD card with 256GB or more should suffice. Larger Nintendo titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Xenoblade Chronicles 3 require around 16GB and 14GB, respectively. If you mainly play Nintendo-developed games, a 256GB card will be more than adequate. However, for larger third-party releases like Mortal Kombat 1 or the latest NBA 2K game, which can take up over 60GB, consider an SD card with 512GB or more. The ideal SD card size depends on your gaming preferences, but it's a crucial accessory for any Switch owner.

Will Switch SD cards be compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2?

With the Nintendo Switch 2 promising backward compatibility for most games, it's likely that SD cards used with the current Switch will also be compatible. Given the similarity in SD card usage across gaming handhelds, there shouldn't be specific requirements for the Switch 2. However, if you're planning to use it with the next console, consider purchasing a 1TB or larger SD card for future-proofing.