How we chose

We chose three microSD Express cards from the makers' own pages, plus the regular card that still suits the original Switch. We did not test them. Read the capacity and the Switch 2 note on each listing.

What microSD Express is

microSD Express is a faster card standard with extra contacts. Switch 2 accepts only that kind of card; a regular microSD card will not work in it. The listing should say microSD Express and name Switch 2. Speeds on the listings run from 800 to 900 MB/s read.

microSD ExpressSwitch 2Regular microSDSwitch, OLED, Lite
Which cards fit which Switch. Switch 2 needs a microSD Express card. A regular microSD card works in the original Switch, OLED and Lite, but not in Switch 2.
Close-up editorial photograph of a detail related to PS5 controller charging dock recommendations
A second editorial illustration supporting this guide.

If you have the original Switch

The original Switch, OLED and Lite use regular microSDXC cards, up to a size Nintendo supports. A Nintendo-licensed card such as the SanDisk one listed here is the simple choice. See Switch accessories.

Moving your games

Moving games between Switch and Switch 2 works through Nintendo's own tools; read Nintendo's support page. Keep your old card for the old console, since it will not fit the new one.

Sponsored

As an Amazon Associate, GameGearLab earns from qualifying purchases. Affiliate disclosure. Images are generic illustrations, not the exact listing.

Mistakes to avoid

The main mistake is buying a regular microSD card because it looks the same and costs less. The Switch 2 slot rejects it. Another is buying a very large capacity to save on a second card, then finding the speed or the listing does not name Switch 2. Check for the words microSD Express and Switch 2 before you add the card to the basket.

Before you buy

Check the capacity against the games you own and the system update size. Read the seller's return policy, since fake and mislabelled memory cards are a known problem with some listings. Buy from the maker or an authorized seller if you can, and test the card by copying a game to it and playing.

After you buy

After you install the card, format it only through the console's own menu, and keep the original packaging with the capacity and the serial number in case you need support. Do not remove the card while the console is on. Back up your save data through Nintendo's own tools before you move cards.

Quick checklist

  • Look for the words microSD Express and Switch 2 on the listing, not only the capacity and the speed.
  • Pick a capacity that matches your library and leaves room for updates and saves.
  • Buy from the maker or an authorized seller, since fake memory cards exist on some marketplaces.
  • After you install the card, copy one game to it and check that it loads before moving the rest.