Switch 2 has a lot more internal storage than its predecessor, boasting 256GB compared to the meagre 32GB seen in Switch 1 (or 64GB if you have an OLED Model).
Still, more storage is always better, and with Switch 2 you'll need to opt for a microSD Express card, not a standard microSD card.
Coming in sizes ranging from 128GB to the massive 1TB microSD Express, in this guide we'll cover what these cards do, why you need one for your Switch 2, and what makes the Express version better than a standard microSD.
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If you already know the ins and outs, let's take a look at the most affordable microSD Express Card options.
SanDisk microSD Express Cards
For many years, SanDisk has been the name when it comes to microSD and other memory cards, with a strong reputation that puts them a cut above many other brands.
And thankfully, that reliability and performance needn't come at extra cost - SanDisk's Switch 2-compatible cards are surprisingly competitively priced. So, if in doubt, why not go to the source?
Best microSD Express Cards for Nintendo Switch 2 (USA)
The larger 1TB card represents the best value option from a gigabytes-per-cent perspective, although smaller capacity cards are the cheapest if you're on a budget.
GameStop, Walmart, and Amazon are dominating pre-orders at the moment, but we'll keep this up to date with the latest US cards and deals as they come.
Best microSD Express Cards for Nintendo Switch 2 (UK)
As in the US, the most affordable options in the UK are the 128GB variants, while the larger, pricier cards offer better bang for your buck - if your budget can stretch to them.
Here are the best microSD Express Card deals in the UK:
FAQs: microSD Express Cards Explained
What is a microSD Express Card?
Put simply, it's a small storage device identical in appearance to a standard microSD that you've probably been using in your regular Switch. The difference is that SD Express is faster - much faster.
How do they compare? Basic Micro SD cards tend to top out at around 200MB/s read and write speeds. However, with SD Express, you're looking at speeds of up to 900MB/s, putting it closer (though still a way off) the kind of speeds you might expect from a solid-state drive (SSD).
This is because they're connected to the same PCI Express/NVMe interface that internal SSDs utilise in other gaming consoles and PCs, therefore effectively giving access to the same bandwidth as internal storage.
Do standard microSD Cards work with Switch 2?
No, SD Express cards are required for the Switch 2.
And if that wasn't clear enough, standard microSD cards will not work – Switch 2's more complex games need faster transfer speeds to run, and a standard microSD card simply won't cut it.
Note. It is possible to transfer images and videos from your old Switch to Switch 2 using the original microSD card - just follow the steps during your initial system transfer. That's the only thing you'll be able to do with a non-Express card on Switch 2, though!
Do microSD Express Cards work with Switch 1?
Yes, microSD Express Cards do function with Switch 1. For example, if you were to buy an Express variant before getting a Switch 2, that card would work fine with your original Switch.
One thing to note: although it will work no problem, using Express microSD won't improve Switch 1 data transfer speeds, so you won't get faster downloads or improved loading times there.
How much storage is available on a microSD Express Card?
From what we've seen so far, you can purchase microSD Express cards in the following capacities at the time of writing:
- 128GB
- 256GB
- 512GB
- 1TB
It's likely that larger capacities will become available at a later date, though keep in mind that you'll be looking at fairly hefty prices for the larger options. Prices in inevitably fall over time, much as standard microSD Card prices fell over the original Switch's lifetime.
What's the largest storage I can get for the Switch 2?
Nintendo Switch 2 is compatible with Express Cards of up to 2TB.
It's important to note, however, that 2TB options don't appear to be available for purchase at the time of writing. Even when they are, you'll likely be looking at high prices.
What size/capacity Micro SD Express Card should I buy?
It's going to be a while until 2TB cards are available and, more importantly, affordable. Right now, you typically have the choice of 1TB, 512GB, 256GB, and 128GB. Naturally, the smaller ones will fill up faster, especially if you buy lots of games.
1TB is a fantastic option for Switch 2 owners who plan to download a lot of games, but it's naturally on the pricey side. If you have that sort of cash to spend, this is currently the ultimate option for your Switch 2.
An alternative approach would be to buy multiple cards and swap them depending on which games you want to play - slightly more effort, but more affordable. Just be sure to keep them in a safe place.
How do I insert a microSD Express Card into the Switch 2?
The microSD Express Card slot is located on the bottom of the Switch 2, just underneath the kickstand.
So simply open the kickstand to locate the slot and pop your microSD Express Card in and push until you hear a 'click'. To remove it, push for the 'click' and slide it out.
Best microSD Cards for the original Nintendo Switch
We understand if you don't want to upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2 just yet. The good news is that there are some excellent choices available for microSD cards for the original Switch, and they've never been cheaper.
Best Value Switch Micro SD cards (USA)
Here are the best deals and cheapest prices on microSD cards that are perfect for your Nintendo Switch in the US:
Best Value Switch Micro SD cards (UK)
And here are the best deals and cheapest prices on microSD cards that are perfect for your Nintendo Switch in the UK:
So there you are: the best value microSD Express Cards in the US and UK. Let us know below if you spy any great offers and we'll spread the word! And if you're interested in upgrading your TV to take advantage of the new system's features, check out our guide to the Best 4K TVs for Switch 2.