Does your Nintendo Switch ever tell you there’s no space left for that new game you desperately want? It’s a common problem! The built-in storage on the Nintendo Switch fills up fast. You want to download more games, screenshots, and updates, but your console says “no.” This is where a Micro SD card becomes your best friend.
Choosing the right card, however, can feel like a puzzle. Which size is best? Do you need a fast one? Knowing the right type ensures your games load quickly and don’t stutter during intense boss fights. Picking the wrong one means wasted money or frustrating slowdowns. We know you want smooth gameplay without the headache of endless tech specs.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explain exactly what you need to look for in a Micro SD card for your Switch. You will learn about speed ratings and capacity recommendations so you can buy the perfect card the first time. Get ready to unlock tons of new gaming space!
Top Micro Sd Card 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
![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].
![SanDisk 512GB Ultra microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card with Adapter - Up to 150MB/s, C10, U1, Full HD, A1, MicroSD Card - SDSQUAC-512G-GN6MA [New Version]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/4195-0HEZxL._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 (A1 performance is 1500 read IOPS, 500 write IOPS. Based on internal testing. Results may vary based on host device, app type, and other factors.)
- Compatible with Nintendo-Switch (NOT Nintendo-Switch 2)
- Incredible speeds in a microSD card officially licensed for the Nintendo Switch 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 512GB (1GB=1,000,000,000 bytes. Actual user storage less.)
- Store your downloaded games, screenshots and video captures in one place so you can travel light.
- 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
Choosing the Best Micro SD Card for Your Nintendo Switch
Your Nintendo Switch is awesome, but its built-in storage fills up fast! Downloading new games, updates, and screenshots eats up space quickly. A good Micro SD card is the key to keeping your gaming going strong. This guide helps you pick the right one.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a Micro SD card for your Switch, a few things really matter:
1. Capacity (How Much Space You Get)
- Minimum Recommended: 64GB. This gives you room for several big games.
- Best Value: 128GB or 256GB. Most players find this sweet spot offers plenty of storage without costing a fortune.
- Power Users: 512GB or 1TB. If you buy almost every game digitally, go big!
2. Speed Class (How Fast Games Load)
Speed is crucial so your games load quickly and don’t stutter. Look for these ratings:
- UHS Speed Class: You need at least a **UHS-I (U1)** rating.
- Speed Rating: Look for cards rated **V10** or higher (V30 is even better). Faster speeds mean less waiting time when starting a game.
3. Compatibility
The Nintendo Switch officially supports Micro SD, Micro SDHC, and Micro SDXC cards. Almost all modern cards work, but the Switch performs best with cards that meet the UHS-I standard.
Important Materials and Build Quality
Most Micro SD cards use similar internal memory chips, but the casing matters for durability.
Durability
While you won’t be tossing the card around, better manufacturing means less chance of failure. Look for well-known brands. These companies generally use higher-quality flash memory chips. Poor quality chips can cause data corruption, which nobody wants.
The Card Format
Ensure you buy the correct size: the **Micro SD card**. It will usually come with an SD adapter, which you don’t need for the Switch, but it’s handy for transferring files to a computer.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your experience depends heavily on speed and reliability.
What Improves Quality (Speed & Reliability)
- Higher Sequential Read/Write Speeds: Faster cards mean games install quicker and load faster when you start playing.
- Good Endurance Rating: Cards designed for frequent reading and writing (like those used in security cameras) often last longer in a console setting, though standard cards are usually fine for the Switch.
What Reduces Quality (Slow Performance)
- Counterfeit Cards: Buying extremely cheap cards from unknown sellers is risky. These cards often lie about their capacity or speed, leading to crashes or lost save data.
- Slow Speed Ratings (e.g., Class 4 or 6): These older speed classes are too slow for modern Switch games and will make loading screens noticeably longer.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your Switch determines the card you need.
The Digital Gamer
If you rarely buy physical game cartridges and download everything, you need high capacity (256GB or more) and good speed. You will store dozens of games, requiring fast access times.
The Hybrid Gamer
If you use a mix of physical cartridges and digital downloads, 128GB is usually enough. You use the card mostly for big updates, DLC, and screenshots.
The Traveler
If you take your Switch everywhere, speed matters less than reliability. You want a card that won’t fail mid-trip. Stick to trusted brands to protect your vacation playtime.
Micro SD Card for Nintendo Switch: 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the maximum Micro SD card size the Switch supports?
A: The Nintendo Switch officially supports Micro SDXC cards up to 2TB (Terabytes). However, 1TB cards are the largest commonly available right now.
Q: Do I need a special “Switch Edition” card?
A: No. “Switch Edition” cards are just regular, high-speed Micro SD cards marketed specifically to Switch owners. You can save money by buying a standard, high-quality UHS-I card instead.
Q: How do I install the Micro SD card in my Switch?
A: Turn the Switch completely off. Locate the small flap or slot on the bottom edge of the console. Gently push the Micro SD card into the slot until it clicks into place.
Q: Can I use a Micro SD card from an old camera or phone?
A: Yes, if the card is at least 16GB and meets the speed requirements (UHS-I). However, you should back up any old data first, as formatting the card for the Switch will erase everything on it.
Q: Will a slower card make my physical games run poorly?
A: If the game requires large updates or DLC downloaded to the card, a slow card will increase loading times for those specific assets. The core game running from the cartridge itself is usually unaffected.
Q: What is the difference between Micro SDHC and Micro SDXC?
A: SDHC cards hold up to 32GB. SDXC cards hold anything larger, up to 2TB. The Switch needs SDXC for larger storage sizes.
Q: Do I need to format the card when I put it in the Switch?
A: Yes. The Switch will automatically prompt you to format the new card before you can use it to store games. This makes the card ready for the system.
Q: Will using an external card slow down my download speeds?
A: Download speeds are mostly determined by your home internet connection. The card only affects how fast the downloaded data is written to the storage.
Q: Are SanDisk and Samsung cards the best options?
A: SanDisk (especially their Extreme line) and Samsung (their EVO Select line) are consistently top-rated brands known for speed and reliability for gaming consoles.
Q: If I upgrade to a bigger card, can I move my old games over?
A: Yes. You can move downloaded digital games from the console’s internal memory or an old card to a new, larger card using the Switch system settings menu under “Manage Software.”