If you're a Nintendo Switch owner, you've likely realized how quickly the internal storage fills up. With the standard Switch offering only 32GB and the upgraded Switch OLED providing 64GB, it's clear that space can become an issue, especially when many of the best Switch games require around 10GB or more. This often leads to the need for deleting games to make room for new ones, particularly if you frequently download from the eShop. That's where a microSDXC card, such as the SanDisk 512GB Extreme, becomes essential for expanding your storage.

Inserting an SD card into your Switch allows you to enjoy a vast library of games without the hassle of constantly managing space. Options are available up to 1TB, giving you ample room for your gaming needs. However, remember that game save data remains on the console's internal memory by default. With the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 promising backwards compatibility, now is an excellent time to upgrade your storage.

TL;DR - These are the Best SD Cards for Switch:

Our Top Pick### SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card

5See it at Amazon### Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card

2See it at Amazon### SanDisk 1TB Ultra A1 microSDXC Card

2See it at Amazon### SanDisk256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

1See it at Amazon### SanDisk 1TB microSDXC Card - The Legend of Zelda

1See it at AmazonSD cards vary in size, speed, and price. For the best experience, choose one with UHS-I compatibility and higher transfer speeds to ensure smooth gameplay and quick loading times.

If you're looking for the best SD card for your Nintendo Switch, you've come to the right place. We've carefully selected top-performing SD cards that are perfectly suited for your Switch, whether you're looking to store a large collection of games, capture gameplay videos, or easily transfer data to other devices.

1. SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card

Best SD Card for Nintendo Switch

Our Top Pick### SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card

5The perfect balance of speed and storage space. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity512GB Transfer SpeedsUp to 190MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSFast 190MB/s read speeds ReliableCONSNo warranty listedSanDisk, a trusted brand, offers the SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card, known for its reliability and durability. This card provides a variety of storage options, allowing you to maximize your Nintendo Switch's capacity. The 512GB version offers excellent value, but if you need more space, a 1TB option is available.

This SD card comes with an adapter, making it versatile for use across different devices. Its impressive transfer speeds of up to 190MB/s mean you can quickly download and install games. The card's robust design is shockproof, temperature-proof, waterproof, and x-ray-proof, providing peace of mind when traveling with your Switch.

2. Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card

Best Budget SD Card for Nintendo Switch

### Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card

2A cost-effective option that meets the Switch's minimum requirements, with slightly slower transfer speeds. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity512GB Transfer SpeedsUp to 130MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSWide range of sizesDurableCONSSlower speedsIf you're on a budget but need a reliable microSD card, the Samsung EVO Select A2 is an excellent choice. Priced at around $40, it features a UHS-I interface and A2 rating, meeting the Switch's requirements. Though its transfer speeds are lower, Nintendo caps speeds at around 95MB/s, so you won't notice a difference in game loading times.

With 512GB of storage, this card can hold a substantial gaming library, gameplay clips, and more. It's expandable to 1TB for use with other devices, and smaller options (64GB, 128GB, 256GB) cater to different needs. Its durable construction ensures data safety, with resistance to water, extreme temperatures, X-rays, magnets, and drops over 16 feet, making it more resilient than the Switch itself.

3. SanDisk 1TB Ultra A1 microSDXC Card

Best High Capacity SD Card for Nintendo Switch

### SanDisk 1TB Ultra A1 microSDXC Card

2With 1TB of storage, this card is ideal for the Nintendo Switch, offering space for over 75 titles. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity1TB Transfer SpeedsUp to 150MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSHigh capacityFast downloadsCONSPriceyThe SanDisk Ultra A1 SD card offers a massive 1TB of storage, perfect for the Nintendo Switch. With transfer speeds up to 150MB/s, it ensures quick downloads. You'll have ample space for over 75 games, given most Switch titles are under 15GB. Even larger games, ranging from 30GB to 60GB, are accommodated, leaving room for screenshots and video captures.

4. SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

Best High Speed SD Card for Nintendo Switch

### SanDisk256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

1SanDisk QuickFlow Technology optimizes files for superior performance. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity256GB Transfer SpeedsUp to 200MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSSanDisk QuickFlow Technology optimizes filesTop transfer speedsCONSSmaller storage spaceFor the best high-speed SD card for your Switch, consider the SanDisk Extreme PRO. Its QuickFlow Technology optimizes files for peak performance, making it ideal for fast game launches and downloads.

With 256GB of storage, you can maintain a robust game library. Though designed for 4K content, its high transfer speeds are beneficial for quickly transferring your 1080p screenshots and videos to other devices.

5. SanDisk 1TB microSDXC Card - The Legend of Zelda

Best SD Card Design for Nintendo Switch

### SanDisk 1TB microSDXC Card - The Legend of Zelda

1A unique design, ample storage, and solid performance make this card a standout choice. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity1TB Transfer SpeedsUp to 100MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSUnique designOfficially licensed by Nintendo CONSSlower speeds than other cardsThe Zelda-themed SD card boasts a unique design featuring the iconic triforce symbol, making it a great choice for fans. With 1TB of storage, you won't run out of space easily, despite slightly slower speeds. As the only card on our list officially licensed by Nintendo, it's a quality product designed specifically for the Switch.

How To Choose an SD Card for Nintendo Switch

Choosing the right SD card for your Nintendo Switch can significantly enhance your gaming experience. The first factor to consider is storage capacity. A 128GB card might suffice for smaller games, but titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which require 16GB, necessitate more space. Remember, save files and screenshots will also consume storage.

Ensure the SD card is compatible with the Switch, which supports microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards. Avoid SD or miniSD cards, as they won't work.

Transfer speed is another crucial aspect. Higher speeds improve gameplay and loading times. Speed classes are rated as 2, 4, 6, or 10, with UHS-1 cards offering optimal performance for the Switch.

Nintendo Switch SD Card FAQs

Do you need an SD card for the Switch?

Absolutely, a microSD card is a vital accessory for the Nintendo Switch. Without it, you'll be limited to installing just a few games on the system. An SD card enables you to store dozens of titles without worrying about deleting games to free up space.

While Nintendo's games tend to be smaller, third-party titles often exceed 32GB, which is the internal storage for the standard Switch and Switch Lite models. An SD card is necessary to install such games.

How much storage do you actually need?

For most users, a 256GB SD card or higher should be sufficient for the Nintendo Switch. Large Nintendo titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Xenoblade Chronicles 3 are around 16GB and 14GB, respectively. A 256GB card is ideal if you mainly play Nintendo-developed games.

However, if you enjoy third-party games like Mortal Kombat 1 or the latest NBA 2K, which take up over 60GB, opt for a card with 512GB or more. Your storage needs depend on your game preferences, but an SD card is essential for any Switch owner.

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

With the Nintendo Switch 2's backward compatibility, it's safe to assume that your current SD card will work with the new console. Handheld gaming devices typically use similar SD cards, so there shouldn't be any specific requirements for the Switch 2. However, consider getting a 1TB or larger card if you plan to use it with the next console.