Is your Nintendo Switch constantly flashing that dreaded “Storage Full” message? You just downloaded that exciting new game, but now you can’t save your progress or take screenshots of your epic wins. It’s incredibly frustrating when you want to play but your console tells you “no more room!”
Choosing the perfect Micro SD card for your Switch feels like a puzzle. Do you need a huge card? Which speed is fast enough? Buying the wrong one means wasted money or slow loading times that ruin the fun. We know you want the best performance without the headache of confusing tech specs.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what features matter for the Switch, helping you pick the perfect storage solution every time. Get ready to unlock tons of new space for all your favorite games!
Top Micro Sd For Nintendo Switch Recommendations
- Compatible with Nintendo-Switch (NOT Nintendo-Switch 2)
- Incredible speeds in a microSD card officially licensed for the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo OLED, and Nintendo Switch Lite systems
- Spend less time waiting and more time playing with read speeds up to 100MB/s(1) and write speeds up to 90MB/s(1).
- Instantly add up to 256GB (1GB=1,000,000,000 bytes. Actual user storage less.)
- Store your downloaded games, screenshots and video captures in 1 place so you can travel light.
- Compatible with Nintendo-Switch (NOT Nintendo-Switch 2)
- Incredible speeds in a microSD card officially licensed for the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo OLED, and Nintendo Switch Lite systems
- Spend less time waiting and more time playing with read speeds up to 100MB/s(1) and write speeds up to 90MB/s(1).
- Instantly add up to 128GB (1GB=1,000,000,000 bytes. Actual user storage less.)
- Store your downloaded games, screenshots and video captures in 1 place so you can travel light.
- Compatible with smartphones, tablets, cameras, GoPro/action cameras, laptops, computers, DSLRs, drones, game consoles and more.This Micro SD card is not compatible with Nintendo Switch 2
- HIGH QUALITY STORAGE: Perfect for high resolution photos, for recording and storing Full HD/4K videos and any other data type
- ULTRA FAST: Read speed up to 100MB/s. Write speed up to 60MB/s (varies according to memory size). UHS, U3, Class 10 and A2 speed classes for an optimal smartphone experience
- LASTING RELIABILITY: Shockproof, IPX6 waterproof, temperature-proof (-10° to 80°), X-Ray-proof and magnetic-proof
- Note: Actual storage capacity shown by a device's OS may be less than the capacity indicated on the product label due to different measurement standards. The available storage capacity is higher than 116GB.
- Compatible with smartphones, tablets, cameras, GoPro/action cameras, laptops, computers, DSLRs, drones, game consoles and more.This Micro SD card is not compatible with Nintendo Switch 2
- HIGH QUALITY STORAGE: Perfect for high resolution photos, for recording and storing Full HD/4K videos and any other data type
- ULTRA FAST: Read speed up to 100MB/s. Write speed up to 90MB/s (varies according to memory size). UHS, U3, Class 10 and A2 speed classes for an optimal smartphone experience
- LASTING RELIABILITY: Shockproof, IPX6 waterproof, temperature-proof (-10° to 80°), X-Ray-proof and magnetic-proof
- Note: Actual storage capacity shown by a device's OS may be less than the capacity indicated on the product label due to different measurement standards. The available storage capacity is higher than 232GB
- ADAPTER INCLUDED: Your microSD card includes a Samsung adapter that works with your computer, tablet, camera, original Nintendo Switch—and virtually any device with an SD card slot; Transfer and save files seamlessly — with no need to hunt for extra tech
- READ/WRITE SPEEDS UP TO 160 MB/s: The EVO Select is ready to save real-time moments with ultrafast transfer speeds of up to 160 MB/s; Transfer everything instantly and capture each memory as it comes with an SD that keeps up with your real life¹
- STORAGE CAPACITIES FROM 64GB - 1TB: Save every second in mere minutes with storage capacities ranging from 64GB to 1TB; It’s always reliable with the right amount of space to fit your lifestyle, so you can hold on to the things that matter most
- U3, CLASS 10, A2, V30 & UHS-I INTERFACE: Ultra-high-speeds; Crystal clear 4K UHD video and content complete with the latest U3 and V30 speeds for faster transfers and more memory² on-the-spot, all while recording full HD 1080p and 3D video, too
- 6 PROOF PROTECTION w/ 10-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: The Samsung EVO Select microSD is tough enough to take on anything; With protection covering everything from water to extreme temperatures— it can handle wear and tear⁴⁻¹¹
- Compatible with Nintendo-Switch (NOT Nintendo-Switch 2)
- OFFICIALLY LICENSED. All cards are designed, tested, and approved for use with Nintendo Switch systems.
- ICONIC DESIGN. Varying by capacity up to 1TB, each card includes an all-time favorite Pokémon with vibrant background colors. (1TB=1,000,000,000,000 bytes. Actual user storage less.)
- EXPANSIVE STORAGE. Store your favorite games on a single card instead of deleting and redownloading.
- TRAIN ON THE GO. Keep your card in your Nintendo Switch system, so you can play anywhere, any time.
- Nintendo Switch 2 uses a new standard of expandable memory card called microSD Express (sold separately). This kind of memory card is needed for faster access speeds and to ensure games will run smoothly.
- Please note: Nintendo Switch 2 is only compatible with microSD Express cards. If the microSD cards you have used for Nintendo Switch do not support microSD Express standards, you cannot use them with Nintendo Switch 2.
- Spanish (Subtitle)
![SanDisk 256GB Ultra microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card with Adapter - Up to 150MB/s, C10, U1, Full HD, A1, MicroSD Card - SDSQUAC-256G-GN6MA [New Version]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41l8AfpMujL._SL160_.jpg)
- Compatible with Nintendo-Switch (NOT Nintendo-Switch 2)
- Expand your storage in a flash: ideal for Android smartphones and tablets, Chromebooks, and Windows laptops.
- Increase your TV show, movie, and Full HD video[4] recording collections dramatically with up to a massive 1.5TB[1].
- Transfer files fast with up to 150MB/s[2] read speeds and SanDisk MobileMate USB micro 3.0 microSD card reader[6].
- Load apps faster with A1-rated performance[3].
Choosing the Best Micro SD Card for Your Nintendo Switch: A Buyer’s Guide
Your Nintendo Switch is an amazing device, but its built-in storage fills up fast! To download more games, updates, and screenshots, you absolutely need a good Micro SD card. This guide helps you pick the right one so your gaming doesn’t stop.
Key Features to Look For
When buying a Micro SD card, three main things matter most:
1. Capacity (How Much Space You Get)
- How big should it be? The Switch officially supports cards up to 2TB, but those are very expensive right now.
- Good starting point: 128GB or 256GB gives you plenty of room for many digital games.
- Heavy users: If you buy lots of big games (like *Zelda* or *Animal Crossing*), look at 400GB or 512GB.
2. Speed Class (How Fast Your Games Load)
Speed is crucial. A slow card makes games load slowly or stutter. Look for these ratings:
- UHS Speed Class (U1 or U3): U3 is faster than U1. For the Switch, U1 is usually fine, but U3 is better for demanding games.
- Application Performance Class (A1 or A2): A1 is the minimum you should accept. A2 is faster for running apps, which helps game loading times. **Always aim for A1 or A2.**
3. Brand Reliability
Stick to trusted brands like SanDisk, Samsung, Kingston, or Lexar. Cheap, unknown brands often lie about their storage size or slow down quickly.
Important Materials and Construction
Micro SD cards are mostly made of flash memory chips and a plastic casing. The quality of the internal chip is what determines how long the card lasts and how fast it stays.
- NAND Type: While you don’t usually see this listed, better cards use higher-quality NAND memory (like TLC over older QLC). Higher quality means the card handles being written to and read from many times without failing.
- Durability: Good cards resist temperature changes and X-rays, which is good if you travel a lot with your Switch.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes Quality Go Up?
- Higher Speed Ratings (U3 and A2): These mean the card can move data quickly to and from the Switch.
- Official Licensing: Cards specifically marketed as “Nintendo Switch Compatible” often have proven speed standards that work well with the console.
What Makes Quality Go Down?
- Counterfeits: Fake cards look real but contain very little actual storage space. They might work for a small game, but then they suddenly stop working or show errors.
- Old Technology: Using very old or slow cards (like those rated only Class 4 or Class 6) will severely limit your Switch performance. These cards should be avoided.
User Experience and Use Cases
The right Micro SD card completely changes how you use your Switch.
Use Case 1: Digital Game Library
If you buy games directly from the Nintendo eShop, you need a large card. A 256GB card holds about 10–15 medium-sized games. This lets you keep your favorites installed without constantly deleting and re-downloading them.
Use Case 2: Screenshots and Video Clips
Taking pictures and clips uses up space quickly! A fast card lets you capture and save these moments instantly without interrupting your gameplay.
User Experience Tip
Once you insert the card, format it directly on the Nintendo Switch console. This ensures the Switch organizes the card perfectly for its own system. If you use a very fast card (like a U3), you will notice that big games start up faster, and switching between open games feels smoother.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Switch Micro SD Cards
Q: Do I need an SD card for the Nintendo Switch?
A: You do not *need* one to use the Switch, but you will need one if you plan to download more than a few small games.
Q: What is the maximum size Micro SD card the Switch accepts?
A: The Switch supports cards up to 2TB (Terabytes) in size.
Q: Can I use a Micro SD card from my phone in my Switch?
A: Yes, you usually can, provided the card is large enough and fast enough. You might need to move the data from your phone to a computer first, then format it for the Switch.
Q: Does the speed of the card really matter for the Switch?
A: Yes, speed matters a lot. A faster card means games load quicker and updates install faster.
Q: What is the best speed rating to look for?
A: Look for cards rated U1 or U3, and Application Performance Class A1 or A2.
Q: Where do I put the Micro SD card in the Switch?
A: You slide the card into the slot located on the bottom edge of the Nintendo Switch console, hidden under the kickstand.
Q: Will a cheap, unbranded card work fine?
A: Cheap cards often fail or report fake storage sizes. It is much safer to buy a reliable brand.
Q: Should I format the card in a computer or the Switch?
A: Always format the card directly on the Nintendo Switch after you insert it for the first time.
Q: Can I move games from the console storage to the SD card later?
A: Yes, you can move downloaded software between the console’s internal storage and the SD card through the System Settings menu.
Q: Are Micro SD cards waterproof?
A: Many high-quality Micro SD cards are built to resist water and temperature changes, which protects your saved game data.