by Victoria Apr 13,2025
If you're a Nintendo Switch owner, you've likely noticed how quickly the internal storage fills up. The standard Switch comes with just 32GB, while the Switch OLED model offers a slightly better 64GB. However, with many of the best Switch games requiring an average of 10GB or more, you can run out of space fast, especially if you're downloading games from the eShop. That's why a microSDXC card, such as the SanDisk 512GB Extreme, is essential for expanding your storage capacity.
By inserting an SD card into your Switch, you can store a vast library of games without the need to delete older ones to make room. SD cards are available in sizes up to 1TB, offering ample space for your gaming needs. Remember, though, that game save data remains in the console's system memory by default. With the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 promising backwards compatibility, now is the perfect time to upgrade your storage.
Our Top Pick### SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card
5See it at Amazon
### Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card
2See it at Amazon
### SanDisk 1TB Ultra A1 microSDXC Card
2See it at Amazon
### SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card
1See it at Amazon
### SanDisk 1TB microSDXC Card - The Legend of Zelda
1See it at Amazon
SD cards vary in size, speed, and price. For the best gaming experience, opt for cards with UHS-I compatibility and higher transfer speeds to ensure smoother gameplay and faster loading times.
If you're looking for the best SD card for your Nintendo Switch, you're in the right place. We've selected top-performing SD cards that integrate seamlessly with your Switch, whether you're installing numerous games, saving video clips, or transferring data to other devices.
Our Top Pick### SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card
5The perfect blend of speed and storage space. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Pros
Cons
SanDisk is a trusted brand, ensuring reliability and durability with the SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card. With various storage options, you can maximize your Nintendo Switch's storage, allowing you to install numerous games, save files, and screenshots without deleting others. The 512GB option offers excellent value, but a 1TB alternative is available for those needing more space.
This SD card comes with an adapter for use across other devices, ensuring no waste when upgrading. It boasts impressive data transfer speeds of up to 190MB/s, making game downloads quick and easy. Its durable design is shockproof, temperature-proof, waterproof, and x-ray-proof, providing peace of mind when traveling with your Switch.
### Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card
2A budget-friendly option with slightly slower transfer speeds that still meets the Switch's minimum requirements. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Pros
Cons
For those on a tight budget, the Samsung EVO Select A2 SD card is an excellent choice. Priced around $40, it meets the Switch's minimum requirements with its UHS-I interface and A2 rating for faster optimization. While transfer speeds are slower, they are sufficient for the Switch, which caps speeds at around 95MB/s. The card's 512GB capacity offers ample space for a large gaming library and gameplay clips, with options up to 1TB for other devices.
Despite its affordability, the Samsung EVO Select A2 is built to last, with waterproofing, resistance to extreme temperatures, X-rays, and magnets, and the ability to withstand drops over 16 feet, ensuring your game data remains safe.
### SanDisk 1TB Ultra A1 microSDXC Card
2With 1TB of storage, this SD card is perfect for the Nintendo Switch, offering space for over 75 titles. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Pros
Cons
The SanDisk Ultra A1 SD card, with its 1TB capacity, is an ideal choice for the Nintendo Switch. With transfer speeds up to 150MB/s, it ensures fast downloads. Most Switch games are under 15GB, so this card provides more than enough space for over 75 titles, plus room for screenshots and video captures.
### SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card
1Utilizes SanDisk QuickFlow Technology for optimal file performance. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Pros
Cons
For those seeking the fastest SD card for their Switch, the SanDisk Extreme PRO SD card is the top choice. It uses SanDisk QuickFlow Technology to optimize files for the best performance, significantly reducing load times for games. With 256GB, it offers ample space for a robust game library, and its high transfer speeds are perfect for quickly moving 1080p screenshots and videos to other devices.
### SanDisk 1TB microSDXC Card - The Legend of Zelda
1A unique design, ample storage, and impressive speeds make this a standout choice. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
Pros
Cons
The Zelda-themed SD card boasts a unique design featuring the iconic triforce symbol. With 1TB of storage, it ensures you won't run out of space for new games. Although its speeds are slightly lower than other options, it's the only card on this list officially licensed by Nintendo, making it a great choice for fans looking to showcase their love for the franchise.
Investing in an SD card for your Nintendo Switch can significantly enhance your gaming experience. When choosing an SD card, consider the following factors:
**Storage Capacity**: Depending on your gaming habits, a 128GB SD card might suffice. However, larger games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which require 16GB, may necessitate a larger card. Don't forget to account for save files and screenshots, which add to the overall storage needs.
**Compatibility**: Ensure the SD card is compatible with the Nintendo Switch. The console supports microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards. Avoid SD or miniSD cards, as they won't work.
**Transfer Speed**: Higher transfer speeds enhance your gameplay experience. Look for speed classes graded in 2, 4, 6, or 10, which denote the card's minimum baseline speed. Cards with a UHS (Ultra High Speed) class, like UHS-1, are ideal for the Switch.
Yes, a microSD card is an essential accessory for the Nintendo Switch. Without it, you'll only have enough space for a few games. An SD card allows you to install dozens of titles without worrying about deleting games to free up storage. While Nintendo games are generally smaller, many third-party titles exceed 32GB, the onboard storage for standard Switch and Switch Lite models.
A 256GB SD card or higher should be sufficient for most Nintendo Switch users. Larger Nintendo titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Xenoblade Chronicles 3 require around 16GB and 14GB, respectively. If you mainly play Nintendo-developed games, a 256GB card will be more than enough.
However, if you enjoy larger third-party releases like Mortal Kombat 1 or the latest NBA 2K game, which can take up over 60GB, consider an SD card with at least 512GB. The ideal SD card size depends on your gaming preferences, but having one is crucial for any Switch owner.
With the Nintendo Switch 2 confirming backwards compatibility for most games, it's safe to assume that SD cards used with the current Switch will also be compatible. Since gaming handhelds typically use similar SD cards, there shouldn't be any specific requirements for the Switch 2. However, consider purchasing a 1TB or larger SD card if you plan to use it with the next console.
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