Overview
- The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 may include support for microSD Express cards, based on recently leaked inventory information from GameStop.
- This new microSD Express standard boasts transfer speeds that are over 900% faster than the current UHS-I interface utilized by the original Switch.
- While traditional UHS-I microSD cards can hold a maximum of 2TB, microSD Express cards are expected to support capacities up to an impressive 128TB.
Recent leaks regarding the Nintendo Switch 2 indicate that Nintendo’s forthcoming console will incorporate microSD Express support, a significant advancement over its predecessor’s storage capabilities. This information emerged from GameStop’s internal stock-keeping unit (SKU) listings, suggesting a substantial upgrade in technology set to enhance user experience.
Rumors suggest that the Switch 2 may enter mass production towards the end of 2024, with speculation that it could occur as early as late September. This speculation is bolstered by a surge of leaked hardware details that have circulated online since the fourth quarter of 2024.
Continuing this trend, several WeUs related to unannounced Switch 2 accessories were leaked in early January 2025. Shared by Reddit user Opposite-Chemistry96, the listings highlighted three “Switch 2 Exp Micro SD Card”products, with capacities varying from 256GB to 512GB. These appear to be referencing the advanced microSD Express standard, which significantly surpasses the original Switch’s capabilities.
Switch 2 WeU’s found in system today!! by u/Opposite-Chemistry96 in Switch
Enhanced Transfer Speeds with Nintendo Switch 2
The original Nintendo Switch supports UHS-I microSD cards, allowing for theoretical transfer speeds of approximately 104 MB/s. In practical use, however, top-tier UHS-I microSD cards generally max out around 95 MB/s. In stark contrast, the microSD Express standard can offer transfer speeds reaching up to 985 MB/s, representing a remarkable 900% increase in performance. This enhancement is attributed to the microSD Express’s utilization of the non-volatile memory express (NVMe) protocol, similar to the technology employed in the fastest SSDs available today.
Comparing UHS-I and microSD Express Standards
|
UHS-I |
microSD Express |
|
|---|---|---|
|
Transfer Speed |
~95 MB/s |
~985 MB/s |
|
Max Capacity |
2TB |
128TB |
Another significant advantage of microSD Express cards is their enhanced storage capacity. While the UHS-I standard allows for a maximum card size of 2TB, the microSD Express supports cards of up to a remarkable 128TB. This equates to a staggering 6,300% increase in maximum capacity. Based on the recent WeU information, GameStop intends to sell the 256GB Switch 2 microSD cards for $49.99, while the 512GB variant is priced at $84.99.
Additionally, the leak revealed WeUs for a Switch 2 carrying case, along with two deluxe cases at prices of $19.99 and $29.99 respectively. These accessories are likely to become part of a wider range of unofficial products that have been surfacing for months. Nintendo has indicated it will officially unveil its new console by the end of its current fiscal year, which concludes on March 31, 2025. With just over two months remaining, anticipation continues to build among fans.
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