Top SD Cards for Nintendo Switch in 2025

As a Nintendo Switch owner, you've likely noticed how quickly the internal storage fills up. The standard Switch comes with just 32GB, while the upgraded Switch OLED model offers 64GB. However, with many top Switch games averaging around 10GB or more, you'll soon find yourself running out of space, particularly if you enjoy downloading games from the eShop. This is where a microSDXC card like the SanDisk 512GB Extreme becomes indispensable 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 are available in sizes up to 1TB, providing ample room for your gaming needs. Remember, though, that your game save data remains in the console's system memory by default. With the Nintendo Switch 2 promising backwards compatibility, now is a great 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### SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

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

1See it at Amazon

SD cards vary in size, speed, and price. For the best gaming experience, opt for cards with UHS-I compatibility and higher transfer speeds to ensure smoother gameplay and faster loading times.

If you're seeking the best SD card for your Nintendo Switch, you're in the right place. We've selected top-performing SD cards that integrate seamlessly with your Switch, perfect for installing numerous games, saving video clips, or 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

5

This card offers the perfect balance of speed and storage. With read speeds up to 190MB/s, it's ideal for quick game downloads and installations. It comes with an adapter for use with other devices, ensuring you get the most out of your investment. SanDisk's reputation for reliability and durability makes this a top choice for Switch owners. The 512GB capacity is excellent value, but if you need more, a 1TB option is also available.

2. Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card

### Best Budget SD Card for Nintendo Switch

### Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card

2

For those on a budget, 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. While its transfer speeds reach up to 130MB/s, which is slower than some premium options, it's more than sufficient for the Switch's needs. With 512GB of storage, it's perfect for a large gaming library and can be expanded to 1TB for use with other devices. Its durability, with resistance to water, extreme temperatures, and more, ensures 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

2

With a massive 1TB of storage, the SanDisk Ultra A1 is perfect for Switch owners who want to store a vast number of games. Its transfer speeds of up to 150MB/s ensure quick downloads, and with most Switch games under 15GB, you'll have plenty of room for over 75 titles. This card is ideal for those who want to capture numerous screenshots and video clips without worrying about space.

4. SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

### Best High Speed SD Card for Nintendo Switch

### SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

1

For those prioritizing speed, the SanDisk Extreme PRO SD card is the top choice. It features SanDisk QuickFlow Technology for optimized file performance, making it ideal for quick game launches and downloads. With 256GB of storage, it's perfect for a substantial game library, and its high transfer speeds of up to 200MB/s are great for transferring 1080p content 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

1

This SD card stands out with its unique design featuring the iconic Triforce symbol from The Legend of Zelda series. Officially licensed by Nintendo, it offers 1TB of storage and transfer speeds up to 100MB/s. While its speeds are lower than some other options, its design and capacity make it a great choice for fans of the franchise.

How To Choose an SD Card for Nintendo Switch

Choosing the right SD card for your Nintendo Switch can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Start by considering the storage capacity you need. A 128GB card might suffice for smaller games, but larger titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which requires 16GB, may necessitate a larger card. Ensure the card is compatible with the Switch, which supports microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards. Avoid SD or miniSD cards, as they won't work. Finally, look at the transfer speed; higher speeds can improve your gameplay experience. Cards with UHS-1 class are recommended for optimal performance.

Nintendo Switch SD Card FAQs

Do you need an SD card for the Switch?

Yes, a microSD card is essential for expanding your Switch's storage. Without it, you're limited to installing just a few games due to the console's small internal storage. An SD card allows you to store dozens of titles without worrying about deleting games to free up space.

How much storage do you actually need?

For most users, a 256GB SD card should be sufficient, especially if you primarily play Nintendo-developed titles, which are typically smaller in size. However, if you enjoy larger third-party games, consider a card with 512GB or more. Games like the latest NBA 2K can take up over 60GB, so larger storage capacities are beneficial for avid gamers.

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

With the Nintendo Switch 2 confirming backwards compatibility for most games, it's likely 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 card if you plan to use it with the next console.