Nintendo’s much-anticipated Switch 2 is set to revolutionize the gaming experience with its impressive built-in storage of 256GB, a significant upgrade from the original Switch and the Switch OLED. However, as games become increasingly larger—such as Cyberpunk 2077 at 59GB and Split Fiction at 69GB—players may find themselves needing additional storage sooner rather than later.
To expand the Switch 2’s storage, gamers will need to invest in a microSD Express card, which is different from standard microSD cards. The new microSD Express cards are faster and designed to accommodate the higher demands of modern gaming. Currently, options for these cards are limited but available in varying capacities up to 1TB, with Nintendo stating that the device technically supports cards up to 2TB.
The SanDisk microSD Express Card and Lexar Play Pro are among the first to be tested. Notably, the SanDisk card boasts superior sequential read speeds of up to 899 MB/s, while the Lexar card offers quicker sequential write speeds of up to 720 MB/s. As these cards have only recently entered the market, their performance on the actual Switch 2 remains to be thoroughly evaluated, but initial tests on PCs show promising results.
Given the current scarcity of microSD Express cards, prices have fluctuated since their initial release. While these cards typically cost more than traditional microSD options, it’s possible that as production ramps up and demand stabilizes, prices may eventually drop. For those contemplating an immediate purchase, it may be wise to maximize the use of the built-in storage of the Switch 2 before committing to a microSD Express card.
MicroSD Express technology is essential for the Switch 2 as it utilizes a new standard to support high-speed data transfers, which is paramount for loading demanding games efficiently. While this technology indicates a step forward, its higher costs and limited market availability present a temporary challenge for gamers. However, as more options become available, the landscape for Nintendo’s next-gen console storage will likely improve, offering players a smoother gaming experience.