The Best SD Cards for Nintendo Switch in 2025

Nintendo Switch owners know the struggle: that internal storage fills up faster than you can say "Joy-Con drift!" The standard Switch's paltry 32GB, even the upgraded Switch OLED's 64GB, vanish quickly. Many top Switch games easily consume 10GB or more, making a microSDXC card practically essential, especially if you frequently download from the eShop. A SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC card, for example, offers a significant upgrade.

Adding an SD card lets you amass a vast game library without constant deletion. Options exist up to 1TB! Remember, save data remains on the console's internal memory. With backwards compatibility confirmed for the Nintendo Switch 2, upgrading your storage now is a smart move.

Top SD Cards for Nintendo Switch

SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card
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Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card
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SanDisk 1TB Ultra A1 microSDXC Card
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SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card
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SanDisk 1TB microSDXC Card - The Legend of Zelda
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SD cards vary in size, speed, and price. For optimal performance, choose UHS-I compatibility and faster transfer speeds for smoother gameplay and quicker loading times.

SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card: Our Top Pick

Product Specifications
Storage Capacity: 512GB
Transfer Speeds: Up to 190MB/s
Includes Adapter: Yes

Pros: Fast 190MB/s read speeds, Reliable
Cons: No warranty listed

The SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card offers a reliable and speedy solution. Its 512GB capacity (or the 1TB option) handles numerous games, saves, and screenshots. The included adapter ensures future compatibility with other devices. Its durable design withstands shocks, temperature changes, water, and even X-rays.

Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card: Best Budget Option

Product Specifications
Storage Capacity: 512GB
Transfer Speeds: Up to 130MB/s
Includes Adapter: Yes

Pros: Wide range of sizes, Durable
Cons: Slower speeds

Budget-conscious gamers will appreciate the Samsung EVO Select A2. While transfer speeds are slightly slower, they're still sufficient for the Switch. Its 512GB capacity offers ample space, and it's durable enough to withstand everyday wear and tear.

SanDisk 1TB Ultra A1 microSDXC Card: Best High Capacity

Product Specifications
Storage Capacity: 1TB
Transfer Speeds: Up to 150MB/s
Includes Adapter: Yes

Pros: High capacity, Fast downloads
Cons: Pricey

The SanDisk 1TB Ultra A1 provides massive storage, easily accommodating a large game library. Its fast transfer speeds ensure quick downloads.

SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card: Best High Speed

Product Specifications
Storage Capacity: 256GB
Transfer Speeds: Up to 200MB/s
Includes Adapter: Yes

Pros: SanDisk QuickFlow Technology, Top transfer speeds
Cons: Smaller storage space

For speed demons, the SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO boasts impressive transfer speeds thanks to SanDisk QuickFlow Technology. While smaller than other options, its speed is unmatched.

SanDisk 1TB microSDXC Card - The Legend of Zelda: Best Design

Product Specifications
Storage Capacity: 1TB
Transfer Speeds: Up to 100MB/s
Includes Adapter: Yes

Pros: Unique design, Officially licensed by Nintendo
Cons: Slower speeds than other cards

This Zelda-themed card offers a stylish alternative with its iconic Triforce design. While speeds are lower, it's a great option for fans.

Choosing the Right SD Card

Storage capacity is key. A 128GB card might suffice for some, but larger games like Tears of the Kingdom demand more. Ensure compatibility—the Switch uses microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards (not SD or miniSD). Higher transfer speeds (UHS-I) enhance gameplay.

Nintendo Switch SD Card FAQs

Do you need an SD card for the Switch?

Yes, an SD card is highly recommended, especially for those who enjoy downloading many games. The internal storage is limited, and many modern titles require significant space.

How much storage do you actually need?

256GB or more is generally sufficient for most users. However, if you plan on playing large third-party titles, a 512GB or 1TB card is recommended.

Will Switch SD cards be compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2?

Given the confirmed backwards compatibility, it's highly likely that existing Switch SD cards will work with the Nintendo Switch 2.

How much storage do you need for games?

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