The best Nintendo Switch 2 microSD Express Cards

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2 days ago

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The Nintendo Switch 2 features 256GB of storage built in. Though that's a lot more than the original Switch's 32GB, it's still a bit limited, especially if you plan to download a lot of games. Luckily, you can use a memory card to expand the Switch 2's storage by up to 2TB, ensuring you have plenty of space to work with.
The original Switch also supported memory cards, but while that system worked with standard microSD cards, the Switch 2 requires a new type: microSD Express. These cards are more expensive but can transfer data faster than any other type, which is necessary to keep up with the Switch 2's more powerful hardware.
This new format has only been around for a few years, so there aren't as many options available, and it's difficult to find larger sizes. That's why I've rounded up the best Nintendo Switch 2 microSD Express cards available so far. Walmart's Onn brand has the most affordable one I've seen, with a 256GB microSD Express card for around $36. Meanwhile, those who prefer an officially licensed card from Nintendo should check out this 256GB option made by Samsung. It's pricier but has the Mario logo branded on the card.
My picks also include options with 128GB and 512GB. Sadly, cards with capacities higher than 512GB are currently hard to find in stock, but I'll update this guide with recommendations when they're available.
Nintendo Switch 2 memory card FAQs
What makes microSD Express cards different from other microSD formats?
Like most technologies, SD cards are improving constantly. The many symbols, numbers, and letters that cover an SD card are evidence of that. Each one represents a different standard that's improved since SD cards were invented.
One of the most recent improvements is SD Express, represented by the letters "EX." First introduced in 2018, most SD Express cards have triple the maximum transfer speeds of the previous type. When looking at microSD Express cards, this means max speeds of 985 MB/s versus the previous max of 312 MB/s.
New Nintendo Switch 2 games are bigger and have more intensive graphics than Switch 1 games. As such, they need to transfer data faster so the system doesn't freeze while you're playing. The improvements found in microSD Express cards help with this.
For more details on how the Switch 2 compares to the original system, check out our Nintendo Switch 2 vs. Switch 1 guide and our Nintendo Switch 2 hands-on impressions.
Why are most microSD Express cards limited to smaller storage sizes?
Since it's a relatively new format, brands like Samsung and SanDisk have only recently started producing microSD Express cards. It costs these companies more money to produce bigger cards, so they're waiting to see what the demand is like for their less expensive cards before they invest in producing higher capacity options.
As more companies invest in the tech — and as more devices require microSD Express cards, like the Switch 2 — expect bigger sizes and falling prices.
Aside from size, how are these microSD Express cards different from each other?
Each microSD Express card recommended in this guide has slightly different transfer speeds, though some brands have yet to reveal their full specifications. Here's a rundown of speed details:
In real-world use, the differences in speeds here are smaller than they might seem and aren't worth worrying much about. Nintendo hasn't specified minimum speed requirements for the Switch 2, so as long as you're using an Express card, you're good to go.
Does the Switch 2 support regular microSD cards?
The Nintendo Switch 2 can not play games or load/save game data using standard microSD cards. The Switch 2 requires a microSD Express card to handle those functions. However, you can still view saved screenshots and videos on a Switch 2 using a regular microSD card.
Do microSD Express cards work on the original Nintendo Switch?
You can use microSD Express cards on the original Nintendo Switch, but you won't get any speed improvements. Instead, the card will function at speeds comparable to those of a regular microSD card. For standard card recommendations, check out our guide the best microSD cards for the Nintendo Switch.