How to choose the right microSD card
Switch 1 and Switch 2 need different cards. Here is what to look for on the packet.
This is the accessory people most often buy wrong, because Switch 2 changed the rules.
The one rule
| Console | Card to buy | Max size |
|---|---|---|
| Switch, Switch Lite, Switch OLED | Standard microSDHC / microSDXC, UHS-I | Up to 2TB |
| Switch 2 | microSD Express only | Up to 2TB |
Switch 2 cannot install or run games from a standard microSD card. Nintendo says standard cards can only be used on Switch 2 to copy screenshots and videos from a Switch 1. microSD Express cards are backward compatible, so one bought for Switch 2 also works in a Switch 1 as a regular card.
How much space do you need?
- Internal storage is 32GB on Switch, Lite and V2, 64GB on OLED and 256GB on Switch 2 — part of it is reserved by the system.
- Big games often need well over 10GB each; small indie games can be under 2GB.
- Mostly physical games: 128GB is plenty on Switch 1. Switch 2 owners may not need a card at first.
- Mostly digital: 256GB or more.
What to look for on the packet
- For Switch 1: "microSDXC" plus a UHS-I mark (U1 or U3). Nintendo recommends UHS-I cards with fast read speeds.
- For Switch 2: the words "microSD Express". If it does not say Express, it will not store Switch 2 games.
- Cards labelled "for Nintendo Switch" are fine but not required. The format is what matters.
Matched to your console
microSD Express card 256GB
Express cards are the only memory cards Switch 2 can install games to. Check the packaging says microSD Express.
microSDXC UHS-I card 256GB
Plenty of room for digital games and updates on the original Switch family.
This website participates in affiliate programmes. We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
More guides
Switch Lite vs V1 vs V2 vs OLED vs Switch 2
Five consoles, one name. Screen, battery, TV play and storage side by side, plus which one fits who.
Read the guideBest Nintendo Switch games for beginners
Games with assist modes, no harsh fail states and controls that click within minutes.
Read the guideTop 10 must-have Switch accessories
What to buy first, in order — and the one compatibility check for each.
Read the guide