Top SD Cards for Nintendo Switch in 2025

As a Nintendo Switch owner, you've likely noticed that the internal storage fills up quickly. The standard Switch comes with just 32GB, while the Switch OLED model offers 64GB. However, with many of the best Switch games requiring an average of 10GB or more, space can run out fast, especially if you're downloading games from the eShop. This is where a microSDXC card like the SanDisk 512GB Extreme becomes essential for expanding your storage capacity.

By inserting an SD card into your Switch, you can store a vast library of games without the need to delete older ones to free up space. SD cards can offer up to 1TB of storage, ensuring you have room for all your favorite titles. Remember, though, that game save data remains in the console's system memory by default. With the Nintendo Switch 2 promising backwards compatibility, upgrading your storage now is a wise decision.

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, opt for a card with UHS-I compatibility and higher transfer speeds to ensure smooth gameplay and faster loading times.

If you're wondering which SD card is best for your Nintendo Switch, you're in the right place. We've selected top-performing SD cards that seamlessly integrate with your Switch, perfect for storing numerous games, capturing gameplay videos, and transferring 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 blend 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 is a trusted brand, ensuring reliability and durability with the SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card. With various storage options available, you can maximize your Nintendo Switch's storage, allowing you to install numerous games, save files, and screenshots without needing to delete others. The 512GB option offers excellent value, but if you need more, a 1TB version is also available.

This SD card comes with an adapter, making it versatile for use across different devices. It boasts impressive data transfer speeds of up to 190MB/s, enabling quick game downloads directly onto your SD card. Its durable design is shockproof, temperature-proof, waterproof, and x-ray-proof, providing peace of mind when taking your Switch on the go.

2. Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card

Best Budget SD Card for Nintendo Switch

### Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card

2A budget-friendly 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 tight budget but need a capable microSD card, the Samsung EVO Select A2 is an excellent choice. Priced around $40, it meets the Switch's minimum requirements with its UHS-I interface and A2 rating for faster optimization. While transfer speeds are slower, Nintendo caps speeds at around 95MB/s, so you won't notice a significant difference in game load times. The card's 512GB capacity offers ample space for a large gaming library and gameplay clips, with options up to 1TB for other devices.

This card is built to last, with waterproofing, resistance to extreme temperatures, X-rays, and magnets, and can withstand drops over 16 feet, ensuring your game data remains safe.

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, the SanDisk Ultra A1 SD 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, with its 1TB capacity, is perfect for the Nintendo Switch. Its transfer speeds of up to 150MB/s ensure fast downloads, and with most Switch games under 15GB, you'll have plenty of room for over 75 titles. This card is ideal for storing games, screenshots, and video captures without worrying about running out of space.

4. SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

Best High Speed SD Card for Nintendo Switch

### SanDisk256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

1Utilizing SanDisk QuickFlow Technology for quick file optimization and top 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 performance on your Switch, the SanDisk Extreme PRO SD card is the top choice. It uses SanDisk QuickFlow Technology to optimize files quickly, enhancing game load times. With 256GB of storage, you can install a substantial game library, and its high transfer speeds are perfect for quickly moving 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 impressive speeds 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 SanDisk 1TB microSDXC Card boasts a unique design featuring the iconic triforce symbol. With 1TB of storage, you won't run out of space for new games. Although its speeds are slightly lower than other options, it's the only card on this list officially licensed by Nintendo, making it a great choice for fans looking to showcase their love for the franchise.

How To Choose an SD Card for Nintendo Switch

Investing in an SD card for your Nintendo Switch can significantly enhance your gaming experience. When choosing an SD card, consider the following factors:

• Storage Capacity: Depending on your gaming habits, a 128GB SD card might suffice. However, larger games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which require 16GB, may necessitate a larger card. Don't forget to account for save files and screenshots.

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

• Transfer Speed: Higher transfer speeds enhance your gameplay experience. Look for speed classes rated at 2, 4, 6, or 10, with UHS-1 being ideal for the Switch.

Nintendo Switch SD Card FAQs

Do you need an SD card for the Switch?

A microSD card is an essential accessory for the Nintendo Switch. Without it, you'll only have enough space for a few games. An SD card allows you to install dozens of titles without worrying about deleting games to free up storage. While Nintendo games are generally smaller, many third-party titles exceed 32GB, the onboard storage of standard Switch and Switch Lite models.

How much storage do you actually need?

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

However, if you enjoy larger third-party releases like Mortal Kombat 1, consider an SD card with over 512GB. Games like the latest NBA 2K title take up over 60GB, so a larger SD card is crucial for avid gamers.

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

With the Nintendo Switch 2 confirming backward compatibility for most games, it's safe to assume that SD cards used with the current Switch will also be compatible. Since gaming handhelds typically use similar SD cards, there shouldn't be any specific requirements for the Switch 2. However, consider purchasing a 1TB or larger SD card if you plan to use it with the next console.