"Switch 2 microSD Express Cards: 128GB for $45"

Nintendo recently provided an extensive look at the Switch 2 during a 60-minute Nintendo Direct, unveiling crucial details such as the console's price at $449.99, a release date set for June 5, 2025, and a lineup of exciting new games. A significant announcement was that the Switch 2 will exclusively support microSD Express Cards for storage expansion.

This means that when you get your hands on the Switch 2 this summer, you won't be able to use your existing storage cards. To expand your storage, you'll need to purchase microSD Express cards, like those from SanDisk currently available on Amazon. Options include a 128GB card for $44.99 and a 256GB card for $59.99.

Switch 2 Compatible### SanDisk 256GB microSD Express Card

1$64.99 save 8%$59.99 at AmazonSanDisk 256GB microSD Express Card - $59.99 (was $64.99)SanDisk 128GB microSD Express Card - $44.99 (was $49.99)

The Nintendo Switch 2 comes equipped with 256GB of internal storage, a substantial upgrade from the original Switch's 32GB. This increase might mean you won't need to expand your storage immediately. However, considering that Switch 2 games could be significantly larger than those on the original console, future storage needs could arise.

For instance, one of the largest games on the original Switch, "Tears of the Kingdom," was 16GB. The Switch 2 version of this game, along with titles like "Mario Kart World," may require much more space. Although exact file sizes for Switch 2 games remain unconfirmed, it's reasonable to expect them to occupy substantial storage. Unlike the original Switch, which supported standard microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards, the Switch 2 will only accept microSD Express cards.

Nintendo's decision to use microSD Express cards for the Switch 2's storage expansion is a significant shift. Why the change? MicroSD Express cards represent a major advancement in portable storage technology. While traditional microSD cards top out at 104 MB/s with the UHS-I interface, microSD Express cards leverage PCIe and NVMe technology to achieve speeds up to 985 MB/s—nearly ten times faster.

Due to these speed advantages, the Switch 2 will not support regular microSD cards, only microSD Express. This means you can't use your old Switch's memory card unless it's a compatible Express version. This move ensures the system can handle larger, more demanding games without experiencing slowdowns.

However, there's a significant drawback: microSD Express cards are pricier. A 128GB SD Card for the original Switch costs around $10-15, whereas the same storage capacity for an Express card is approximately $45. Additionally, microSD Express cards are less widely available than standard microSDs, with brands like SanDisk and Samsung among the few manufacturers. While Nintendo's shift to microSD Express aims to enhance speed and future-proof the console, it does mean higher costs for expandable storage for users.

If you're planning to purchase a Switch 2, be prepared to budget for these faster, yet more expensive, memory cards. For a comprehensive look at everything else Nintendo showcased during today's Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, you can click here.