"128GB microSD Express Cards for Switch 2 Start at $45"

Nintendo recently unveiled a wealth of information about the much-anticipated Switch 2 during a comprehensive 60-minute Nintendo Direct. The event shed light on several key aspects, including the console's price of $449.99, its release date set for June 5, 2025, and an exciting lineup of new games. One significant revelation was the Switch 2's exclusive compatibility with microSD Express Cards, meaning you won't be able to use your existing storage cards with the new console.

To expand your storage on the Switch 2, you'll need to invest in microSD Express cards. Currently, SanDisk offers these cards on Amazon, with options including a 128GB card for $44.99 and a 256GB card for $59.99. These are essential for anyone looking to increase their storage capacity beyond the console's built-in 256GB—a notable upgrade from the original Switch's 32GB. However, given that Switch 2 games may be larger in file size, such as the anticipated larger versions of games like Tears of the Kingdom and Mario Kart World, additional storage might become necessary sooner than you think.

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)

Nintendo's decision to switch to microSD Express cards for the Switch 2 is rooted in the significant speed improvements these cards offer. While traditional microSD cards are limited to 104 MB/s with the UHS-I interface, microSD Express cards can achieve speeds up to 985 MB/s thanks to PCIe and NVMe technology. This shift ensures the Switch 2 can handle larger, more demanding games without experiencing slowdowns. However, this comes at a higher cost, with a 128GB microSD Express card priced at around $45, compared to the $10-15 for a similar capacity standard microSD card.

The availability of microSD Express cards is also more limited, with only a few brands like SanDisk and Samsung currently producing them. This means that while the move to microSD Express is forward-thinking and performance-driven, it does increase the cost of expandable storage for users. If you're planning to purchase a Switch 2, be prepared to budget for these faster, yet pricier, memory cards.

For a detailed look at everything else Nintendo showcased during the Switch 2 Direct, you can click here.