Nintendo Switch 2 Requires Micro SD Express Cards for Expanded Storage, Confirms Nintendo

Nintendo Switch 2 will mark a significant departure from its predecessor in terms of storage technology, as the company has now confirmed that only Micro SD Express cards will be compatible for expanding the console’s storage capacity.

Standard Micro SD cards, previously supported by the original Nintendo Switch, will not be supported by the new device.

This development was officially revealed during the latest Switch 2 Direct presentation, putting an end to earlier rumors and speculation within the gaming community. The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch with an increased internal storage capacity of 256GB, a notable boost over the original model’s 32GB and the Switch OLED’s 64GB.

While this expanded onboard memory is well-suited for handling the growing size of modern games available on the Nintendo eShop, Nintendo recognizes the continued need for additional space, especially for digital download enthusiasts.

As such, the platform has transitioned to the faster and more robust Micro SD Express standard for all future external storage needs. During the Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo also unveiled the new, eye-catching red game cards designed for the upcoming console, emphasizing their improved read speeds compared to the original Switch cartridges.

According to information shared at the event, both the red game cards and the Micro SD Express standard were chosen to support the next generation of Nintendo Switch games, ensuring faster load times and a smoother user experience. A Nintendo representative stated that the adoption of Micro SD Express reflects the company’s commitment to delivering high-performance solutions for players.

By integrating this more advanced type of external storage, Nintendo aims to accommodate larger file sizes and support increasingly ambitious game titles, whether purchased physically or via the Nintendo eShop. The Switch 2 Direct presentation provided clarity on previously circulating rumors about storage upgrades and revealed several new titles coming to the platform.

With Micro SD Express card technology now confirmed as a requirement for expanded storage, existing Switch 1 Micro SD cards will not be transferable for use in the new system, meaning returning Nintendo fans will need to invest in new hardware to take full advantage of the expanded storage options. Nintendo Switch 2’s move to a 256GB internal drive, complemented by the high-speed Micro SD Express expansion, positions the console as a forward-looking device designed to handle the evolving demands of today’s gaming landscape.

The company’s decision underscores its focus on performance and consumer experience as Nintendo continues to innovate within the global gaming market.

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