The Nintendo Switch 2 is on the horizon, and if you're planning to get one, you should know it comes with just 256GB of built-in storage. To enjoy a seamless gaming experience without constantly uninstalling and reinstalling games, you'll need to expand that storage. Unlike the original Nintendo Switch, the new console requires a MicroSD Express card, which is faster but pricier than traditional UHS-based SD cards.

MicroSD Express cards have been around for a while, but they're not widely used by creative professionals yet. With the imminent launch of the Switch 2, expect a surge in the availability of these cards. Keep in mind, since the system isn't out yet, I haven't tested any of these cards for the Nintendo Switch 2. However, they come from reputable manufacturers known for their quality storage solutions.

Why MicroSD Express?

The Nintendo Switch 2 mandates the use of a MicroSD Express card for storage expansion. While Nintendo hasn't detailed their reasoning, it's clear they want to ensure faster storage performance. The console's built-in flash storage uses UFS technology, similar to that in smartphones, which is significantly faster than the eMMC drive in the original Switch. This means developers can rely on consistent high-speed storage, whether games are stored internally or on an expansion card.

Regular MicroSD cards can only be used for loading screenshots and videos from your first-gen Switch. Unlike the PS5, which allows last-generation games on slower external drives, the Switch 2 offers no such flexibility. If you want to expand your storage, you'll need a MicroSD Express card.

1. Lexar Play Pro

The Best MicroSD Express Card

Out of the available MicroSD Express cards, the Lexar Play Pro stands out as the fastest and most capacious option. With read speeds up to 900MB/s and storage up to 1TB, it's the top choice right now. However, due to high demand from the Switch 2 launch, it's currently out of stock. Keep an eye on it, especially the 1TB version, and consider ordering through Adorama, where it's 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 at a lower price. With read speeds up to 880MB/s, it's slightly slower than the Lexar Play Pro, but the difference is negligible for gaming. The SanDisk card is readily available, making it a convenient choice if you want to buy now and not wait.

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 on its specs and storage options are scarce. It's reassuring to have Nintendo's endorsement, but we'll need to wait for more information. I've reached out to Samsung for more details and will update this article as soon as I have them.

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, similar to SSDs in PCs. While full-sized SD Express cards can reach read speeds up to 3,940MB/s, MicroSD Express cards max out at 985MB/s. This 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 durability depends on usage and environmental conditions. Expect them to last 5-10 years before needing replacement, and always back up important data.