The top microSD cards for the Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo Switch 2 needs Express for more storage; costly yet essential.

: The Nintendo Switch 2 offers 256GB of built-in storage, requiring microSD Express cards for expansion due to the increased demand from larger games. This new storage standard is faster than previous options, with cards like the SanDisk microSD Express offering up to 899 MB/s read speeds. The Switch 2's compatibility with up to 2TB cards improves upon the first Switch, but few options currently exist, with prices starting significantly higher. This costliness of microSD Express cards against traditional microSD options highlights a price-quality trade-off.

The Nintendo Switch 2, launching on June 5, 2025, supports only microSD Express cards for expandable storage. These new cards offer much faster read/write speeds compared to standard microSD cards, ensuring smooth gameplay and faster load times. Choosing the right card is essential to get the most out of the new hardware.

Best Overall: Lexar PLAY PRO 1TB microSD Express

With read speeds up to 900MB/s and write speeds up to 600MB/s, the Lexar PLAY PRO 1TB offers massive storage and top-tier performance. It's ideal for gamers who want to store a large digital library without sacrificing speed.

Best Mid-Range: SanDisk 256GB microSD Express

This card offers excellent balance between price and performance. With read speeds around 880MB/s and write speeds up to 480MB/s, it's perfect for most users who don't need 1TB of space but still want premium speed.

Best Budget: PNY 256GB microSD Express

PNY delivers impressive speed (up to 890MB/s read, 750MB/s write) at a lower price point. It's a great choice for gamers looking for high performance without a high cost.

Best Official Option: Samsung 256GB microSD Express

Officially licensed for the Nintendo Switch 2, this Samsung card ensures compatibility and quality. It’s ideal for those who prefer brand assurance and first-party support.

Best Entry-Level: SanDisk 128GB microSD Express

For casual gamers or new Switch 2 owners, the 128GB version from SanDisk provides good performance and enough space for a few titles, at an affordable price.

Note: Only microSD cards labeled with the “EX” (Express) logo are compatible with the Switch 2. Regular microSD cards will not work.

Sources: Nintendo Life, Tom’s Hardware, Nintendo.com, Polygon

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