Best Memory Cards for Nintendo Switch 2019

Looking for the best memory cards for the Nintendo Switch? We have put together a short guide to help you get the most out of your gaming console. 

The Nintendo Switch comes with 32GB of onboard storage, but this limited storage space can quickly fill up with games. Fortunately, the Switch allows you to expand the storage capacity of your device via a microSD card slot. So you can add extra space with a microSD card to expand your library of games far beyond the provided 32GB of internal storage. 

Do I need a microSD card for Nintendo Switch? 

The Nintendo Switch comes with 32GB of internal storage built-in, so if you are planning on playing only a handful of games, then you might not necessarily need a microSD card. However, if you are planning to download more games and save further data, then yes, you will need to add a microSD card to increase the storage capacity on your device. 

For your benefit, it may be worth investing in a microSD card to be confident that you have enough space to fulfil your gaming needs. 

Can I use an SD card on Nintendo Switch? 

To put it simply, no. Only microSD cards can be used with the Nintendo Switch. The size of the card slot is only compatible with the size of a microSD card, meaning that miniSD cards and SD cards are not compatible with the Switch. 

Choosing the right memory card: 

To achieve the best results when using your Nintendo Switch, it’s important to choose the correct microSD cards that will work well with your gaming console. However, it’s important to note that not every microSD card on the market will work well with the Switch. For example, if your card is too slow, it may result in errors within your gameplay experience. 

With so many memory cards on the market, it can be difficult choosing which one is right for your console. From a range of sizes to different transfer speeds, our guide is in place to help you pick the best card for your Nintendo Switch. 

Which microSD cards does the Nintendo Switch support? 

The Nintendo Switch supports the following types of microSD cards: 

• microSD (up to 2GB)
• microSDHC (4GB – 32GB)
• microSDXC (64GB and above) 

Nintendo has stated that if you are using a microSDXC card on the Switch console, you must perform a system update before downloading games onto the card. 

With regard to improving your overall gameplay experience, a higher transfer speed of a memory card is very important. If you are thinking about adding a card to your Switch, keep in mind that it needs to be UHS-I compatible and have a transfer speed of 60-95MB/s. It’s important to note that the higher the transfer speed, the better the gameplay experience you will have on your Nintendo Switch. 

There is always a risk that if your microSD card isn’t up to requirements, that you could encounter error messages or loss of data. 

What does SDHC, SDXC, and UHS-I mean? 

Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) microSD cards usually have a capacity range of 4GB to 32GB, whereas Secure Digital Extended Capacity (SDXC) microSD cards range from 64GB and above. 

Ultra-High Speed-1, also known as UHS-I, is a speed class for SDHC and SXDC memory cards. UHS-I is able to transfer content at a minimum rate of 10MB/s. An SDHC and SDXC UHS-I card will work in any compatible device at lower speeds, but to take advantage of this speed class, a UHS-I compatible device is essential. 

It’s important to remember that Nintendo recommends cards which support UHS-I and have a transfer speed between 60 to 95MB/s to achieve the best results.

To ensure your console reaches its full potential, we want to make sure you’re kitted out with the best memory cards. There are several cards that work well, so to help you out, we have rounded up the best memory cards for the Nintendo Switch. Check them out below! 

Best microSD cards for Nintendo Switch:

Best Overall

SanDisk 128GB Nintendo Switch Micro SD – 100MB/s

Nintendo-branded memory cards for the Nintendo Switch allows you to store digital games and additional content in one place to play anywhere, with peace of mind that they have had the thumbs up from Nintendo. The SanDisk microSD card for the Switch is designed to provide dependable storage as you conquer new levels. With transfer rates up to 100MB/s, this card delivers consistent high performance so you can load games fast. Available here.

Runner Up

Samsung 128GB Evo Plus Micro SD – 100MB/s

The Samsung Evo Plus microSD card is the perfect partner for your Nintendo Switch gaming console. Boasting transfer speeds of up to 100MB/s read and 90MB/s write, the Samsung Evo Plus will load games faster than most other cards. Plus, combined with a storage capacity of up to 128GB, this card will give you plenty of room to store games, especially if you are planning on downloading them from the Nintendo eShop. Available here.

Best High Capacity

Samsung 512GB Evo Plus Micro SD – 100MB/s

If you are needing a massive storage boost for your Switch, a 512GB Evo Plus microSD card from Samsung will do just the trick. This high-quality microSD card will allow you to store tonnes of new games. Backed by 4-proof protection, the Evo Plus can withstand up to 72 hours in seawater, extreme temperatures, airport X-ray machines and magnetic fields, so you can be confident that your games will be safe. Available here.

Best Budget

MyMemory 128GB V30 PRO Micro SD – 100MB/s

Looking for a high-quality card that won’t break the bank? Introducing the MyMemory V30 PRO microSD. This card offers a great balance of speed and capacity, at just a fraction of the price of other cards. Offering up to 128GB in capacity and ultra-fast read speeds of up to 100MB/s, the V30 PRO will hold a large number of games with ease. It also comes with a lifetime warranty so you can feel confident about your purchase. Available here.

Mid-Range Storage

SanDisk 64GB Nintendo Switch Micro SD – 100MB/s

The SanDisk 64GB microSD card for the Nintendo Switch is a great mid-range storage option, with transfer rates up to 100MB/s. Up to 64GB in capacity will provide a great amount of storage to ensure you have lots of space and can rest easy knowing you have room for all your favourite games on your Switch. Plus, having the seal of approval from Nintendo will help you to feel safer about your purchase. Available here.

Ultimate Performance

SanDisk 128GB Extreme Pro V30 Micro SD Card – 170MB/s

The SanDisk Extreme Pro line of memory cards offer super-fast speeds for ultimate performance. If you are looking for a top of the line card for your gaming console, then this is it. These cards are durability tested to protect your data from life’s mishaps. Plus, transfer speeds of up to 170MB/s mean this card will loads games faster than most. Combined with 128GB of storage, it is a great choice for those who download loads of games. Available here.

Our top recommendations: 

All of MyMemory’s top recommendations will give you the speed and space you need to have the ultimate gaming experience. It is very important to choose a reasonably fast microSD card in order for your Nintendo Switch to be able to cope with the data that needs to be written to the card.

Still looking for another card? Be sure to head to our website now to view our full range of memory cards for Nintendo Switch.