MicroSD Express Explained: Speed, Specs & Uses

Nintendo Switch 2: The Speed Demon microSD Card You NEED (Or Do You?) **Prepare for liftoff!** Your Nintendo Switch 2 is here, but its lightning-fast performance is about to hit a snag: filling up that internal storage faster than you can say "Game Over." Are you ready for the next-gen storage solution—or will you get grounded by a hefty price tag?
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This guide reveals everything about the revolutionary microSD Express cards, their mind-blowing speeds, and whether they're worth the hype (and the extra cash). Learn which cards deliver the best bang for your buck, avoiding the pitfalls of this new technology. The microSD Express Card: A Necessary Upgrade?
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The Nintendo Switch 2 demands speed. Games are massive, and loading times can feel like an eternity. That's where the microSD Express card enters the picture—but it's not just a simple upgrade. This cutting-edge technology boasts write speeds measured in hundreds of megabytes per second, a quantum leap from standard microSD cards. But here's the twist: finding and buying one is currently a mission impossible for many. This scarcity has led to inflated prices, leaving gamers scratching their heads. Is the performance increase worth the premium? Let's dive in!
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Decoding the Speed Wars: Express vs. Standard microSD Standard microSD cards use a confusing trio of speed classes: Speed Class (C), UHS Speed Class (U), and Video Speed Class (V). Each indicates minimum read/write speeds—but the numbers can be cryptic. Need a quick refresher? Our in-depth guide covers all the details! (link to your in-depth guide here).
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MicroSD Express cards, however, use a straightforward "EX" or "E" designation. This clearly displays minimum sustained write speeds ranging from a blistering 150MB/s to an astonishing 600MB/s. Remember, these are minimums; manufacturers often boast even higher speeds. But whether your Switch 2 can actually reach those speeds is another story! A crucial difference: While the physical shape is similar, the pin configuration is different. Express cards have a more compact two-row pin layout but maintain backward compatibility with slower readers via the top row.
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Nintendo Switch 2 Compatibility: The Ultimate Test While you *can* load images and videos onto your Switch 2 via a standard microSD card, using it for game saves and data requires a microSD Express card. Nintendo's official website confirms this (link to Nintendo's website here). But a vital piece of information is missing: the exact minimum write speed needed for optimal performance.
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*Suspense builds*... Hands-on with the MicroSD Express Elite: Speed Test Results
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To cut through the mystery, I acquired three microSD Express cards: SanDisk (256GB), PNY (256GB), and the official Nintendo-branded Samsung (256GB). These are available now. Why 256GB? Games are huge; that single slot in your Switch 2 will fill up fast. 128 GB might feel limiting very quickly. I put them to the test, transferring a 20.3GB copy of Rocket League. The SanDisk emerged as the fastest, completing the transfer in just four minutes and 12 seconds! The PNY lagged behind at six minutes and 46 seconds, with the Samsung finishing in the middle at five minutes and 23 seconds. Transferring the game back showed less variation in times.
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**But the results got even weirder...** My benchmark tests using a dedicated USB reader showed a different story, highlighting potential inconsistencies and optimizations within the Switch 2 itself. The story continues below... The Verdict: Speed, Cost, and Your Nintendo Switch 2
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For most users, the performance difference between the top contenders is negligible in everyday gameplay. Therefore, the most affordable 256GB option is the most practical choice. Unless you are a serious speed freak or a benchmark tester, this is likely the best financial option. Yes, microSD Express cards are pricey (expect to pay upwards of $50 for 128GB). But for a truly seamless Switch 2 experience, they are likely worthwhile. This investment ensures your gaming sessions remain lag-free and your save files transfer smoothly. Unless you’re a Switch 2 owner, you likely need not worry. Stick to your standard microSD cards for now. However, if you're itching for that ultimate, lightning-fast gaming experience, the microSD Express card is ready to deliver—if you can find and afford one. **(Link to subscribe to WIRED here)**

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