Leaked GameStop SKUs Suggest Nintendo Switch 2 Will Support microSD Express Cards
Recent leaks suggest the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 will boast a significant upgrade in storage technology, potentially supporting microSD Express cards. This information comes from GameStop SKUs discovered online, listing "Switch 2 Exp Micro SD Card" options in 256GB and 512GB capacities.
This represents a major leap forward from the current Switch's UHS-I microSD card support. The implications are substantial:
Dramatic Speed and Capacity Improvements:
MicroSD Express cards leverage the NVMe protocol, delivering transfer speeds around 985 MB/s – a nearly 900% increase over the roughly 95 MB/s offered by UHS-I cards. Furthermore, while UHS-I cards max out at 2TB, microSD Express cards can reach capacities up to 128TB – a staggering 6300% improvement.
Pricing and Availability Hints:
The leaked GameStop SKUs indicate pricing of $49.99 for a 256GB microSD Express card and $84.99 for a 512GB version. Additional SKUs were also found for Switch 2 carrying cases, priced at $19.99 and $29.99.
Comparison Table: UHS-I vs. microSD Express
| Feature | UHS-I | microSD Express |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer Speed | ~95 MB/s | ~985 MB/s |
| Maximum Capacity | 2TB | 128TB |
Timing and Official Announcement:
The Switch 2 is rumored to have begun mass production in late 2024, with a possible launch as early as September. These leaks, surfacing in early January 2025, add further weight to these rumors. Nintendo has promised an official reveal before the end of its fiscal year (March 31, 2025), leaving a limited window for the official announcement. While the leaked accessories are likely unofficial, their existence strengthens the credibility of the microSD Express support claims.
