128GB Switch 2 microSD Express Cards Now at $45

In a recent extended 60-minute Nintendo Direct, Nintendo provided an in-depth look at the upcoming Switch 2, unveiling crucial details such as the console's price ($449.99), its launch date (June 5, 2025), and an exciting lineup of new games. A significant revelation was that the Switch 2 will exclusively support microSD Express Cards for storage expansion, rendering older storage cards incompatible with the new console.

When you upgrade to the Switch 2 this summer, you'll need to invest in microSD Express cards for additional storage. Currently, SanDisk offers these cards on Amazon in sizes like 128GB ($44.99) and 256GB ($59.99). These cards represent the new standard for the Switch 2, ensuring you have ample space for your gaming needs.

SanDisk microSD Express Cards for Switch 2

• SanDisk 256GB microSD Express Card - $59.99 (was $64.99)
• SanDisk 128GB microSD Express Card - $44.99 (was $49.99)

The Switch 2 boasts an impressive 256GB of internal storage, a notable upgrade from the original Switch's 32GB. This increase might mean you won't need immediate storage expansion. However, considering that Switch 2 games are expected to be larger—take the example of "Tears of the Kingdom," which was 16GB on the original Switch, and anticipate even more demanding titles like "Mario Kart World"—you might find yourself needing extra space sooner than you think.

While the exact file sizes for Switch 2 games remain undisclosed, it's clear they will require significant storage. Unlike the original Switch, which supported standard microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards, the Switch 2 is designed to work solely with microSD Express cards.

Why MicroSD Express for Switch 2?

Nintendo's decision to use microSD Express cards for the Switch 2 marks a significant shift in storage technology. These cards leverage PCIe and NVMe technology to achieve speeds up to 985 MB/s—nearly ten times faster than traditional microSD cards, which max out at 104 MB/s with UHS-I. This speed boost is crucial for handling larger, more demanding games without experiencing performance lag.

However, there's a notable downside: microSD Express cards are more expensive. A 128GB standard SD card for the original Switch costs around $10-15, while a similar capacity microSD Express card is priced at about $45. Additionally, these cards are less common on the market, with only a few brands like SanDisk and Samsung producing them. While Nintendo's move to microSD Express is aimed at enhancing speed and future-proofing the console, it does mean higher costs for expandable storage.

If you're planning to purchase a Switch 2, make sure to budget for these faster, albeit pricier, memory cards. For a comprehensive overview of all the announcements from today's Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, you can click here.