It's almost time for the Nintendo Switch 2. The system launches on June 5, and Nintendo is opening pre-orders on April 24.
Beyond the console itself, there are also games and peripherals to think about. The Nintendo Switch 2 comes with 256GB of built-in storage, but if you want to add extra to your handheld console, so that you can store more installed games, you're going to need to invest in the latest microSD Express storage technology, as the Nintendo Switch 2 is only compatible with microSD Express cards.
The latest microSD Express cards are faster at reading and writing data compared to microSD cards, which were used in the original Nintendo Switch, and this is why they've been picked as the must-use medium for the Switch 2. Unfortunately, the cost of microSD Express cards is fairly high, with larger 1TB and 2TB sizes costing hundreds of dollars.
Make sure you're buying the correct microSD card by checking the symbol on the card. It must have the "EX" symbol as shown in the picture below to be compatible with the Switch 2.
The Nintendo Switch 2 will support microSD Express cards with a capacity of up to 2TB, which should be more than enough to store a large number of games, should you want them all downloaded and preinstalled for on-the-go gaming.
Only the Switch 2 will be able to make the most of the increased performance of the microSD Express card. If you use the card in the original Switch, it will perform at the same level as a standard microSD card. So don't buy one thinking you can increase the performance of your original Switch console.
There will be licensed microSD Express cards for the Nintendo Switch 2 featuring a Nintendo logo like the Mario "M" as were available for the original Switch. These microSD Express cards will be available for purchase directly from the Nintendo shop when they become available on June 5, 2025. Currently, prices are not listed for these licensed editions of Samsung's microSD Express 256GB cards.
One way to save a few bucks is to purchase a third-party, unlicensed microSD Express card from various other manufacturers and retailers.
Where to buy microSD Express cards in the US
Stock of microSD Express cards have been flying off the shelves and some capacities are temporarily out of stock. This page will be updated regularly with new microSD Express products and retailer links as they come online.
Where to buy microSD Express cards in the UK
Unfortunately for the UK, there is currently a lot less selection on microSD Express cards from manufacturers to retails. We will update this page regularly as more stock becomes available and more retailers start to sell them.
