The Nintendo Switch 2 gives a reasonably huge improve on the subject of uncooked space for storing. The 256GB onboard SSD is 4 instances bigger than the Switch OLED (64GB) and eight instances the scale of the unique Switch and Switch Lite (32GB). That stated, the Switch 2’s efficiency upgrades will inevitably result in greater file sizes for upcoming video games, which may compel you to increase your console’s storage capability. Identical to its predecessor, the Nintendo Switch 2 has a microSD card slot. However whereas the Switch labored with principally each microSD card offered in shops, the Switch 2 is just suitable with a really particular sort of storage: microSD Express cards.
The Express format is a latest development within the semiconductor trade that hasn’t been extensively adopted by producers but. The Nintendo Switch 2 will definitely enhance its adoption price by each producers and customers in a rush. Throughout this week’s Nintendo Direct, we realized that each Samsung and SanDisk shall be releasing Tremendous Mario-themed microSD Express Cards this 12 months. If you wish to get forward of any potential Switch 2 storage woes, we have put collectively a short checklist and explainer detailing the microSD Express choices obtainable now from SanDisk and Lexar. None of the present playing cards are themed round Nintendo franchises, however you may most likely avoid wasting money by grabbing a non-branded one anyway.
For extra on the brand new console, try GameSpot’s Nintendo Switch 2 preorder information, which incorporates all the first-social gathering {hardware} and video games featured within the Nintendo Direct. Preorders for the Switch 2, its equipment, and a bunch of launch video games will open on April 9, and we’re solely two months out from the console’s June 5 launch.
Available in 128GB and 256GB models
SanDisk currently manufactures 128GB and 256GB models of its microSD Express Cards. The 128GB model is on sale for $45 (was $50) at Amazon, while the 256GB version is $60 (was $65).
Though five bucks may not sound like a big discount, if the original Switch’s memory situation mirrors its successor, the upcoming licensed versions of the same card with a Super Mario-red color scheme could be sold for markedly higher prices.
At the moment, it appears SanDisk will release Nintendo-themed versions of its two microSD Express offerings. It remains to be seen if SanDisk cards with more (or less) storage space will get the Nintendo treatment.
SanDisk microSD Express Cards are substantially faster than its Ultra and Extreme Cards, which are popular picks for expanding storage on the original Switch.
With Express technology, SanDisk’s cards offer read speeds of up to 880MB/s, write speeds of 650MB/s, and sustained write speeds of 210MB/s. For comparison, the SanDisk Ultra is rated for 150MB/s read speeds, and the Extreme can hit 190MB/s.
Express cards are essentially solid-state drives that can fit on your fingertip. In fact, this card is actually faster than the average SATA SSD.
Available in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB models
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Samsung introduced its personal microSD Express Card earlier this 12 months. Samsung’s upcoming excessive-pace playing cards provide as much as 800MB/s sequential learn speeds. Samsung has not revealed a value or confirmed storage capacities apart from 256GB.
As talked about, Samsung will even have a Nintendo-branded version of its new card. Launch dates for the non-branded and branded variations of Samsung’s 256GB microSD Express Cards haven’t been introduced.
Whereas grabbing considered one of these microSD Express Cards which might be already obtainable is a great approach to prep for the Switch 2 launch, Should you’d quite await the formally licensed SanDisk or Samsung playing cards, this is what these appear to be:
