Top SD Cards for Nintendo Switch in 2025

If you're 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 a slightly improved 64GB. Considering that most best Switch games average around 10GB or more, it's easy to run out of space, especially with frequent downloads from the eShop. This is why a Switch microSDXC card, such as the SanDisk 512GB Extreme, is practically essential.

Adding an SD card to your Switch lets you store a vast library of games without the hassle of deleting older ones to make room. With options available up to 1TB, you can choose the capacity that suits your needs. Remember, though, that game save data remains in the console's system memory by default. With the confirmation of backward compatibility for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, now is the perfect 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 AmazonSD cards vary in size, speed, and price. For the best gaming experience, opt for cards with UHS-I compatibility and higher transfer speeds, which can enhance gameplay and reduce loading times.

If you're seeking the best SD card for your Nintendo Switch, you're in the right place. We've selected top-quality SD cards that seamlessly integrate with your Switch, whether you're 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

5The perfect blend of speed and storage, ideal for your gaming needs. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity512GB Transfer SpeedsUp to 190MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSFast 190MB/s read speeds ReliableCONSNo warranty listedSanDisk's reputation for reliability and durability shines with the SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card. With various storage options, you can maximize your Nintendo Switch's storage capacity, allowing you to install numerous games, save files, and screenshots without needing to delete other games. The 512GB version offers excellent value, though a 1TB option is available for those needing even more space.

This SD card includes an adapter for use with other devices, ensuring its versatility. Its high data transfer speed of up to 190MB/s means you can quickly download and transfer games. The card's robust design is shockproof, temperature-proof, waterproof, and x-ray-proof, providing extra security for your game files, especially when traveling.

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 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 still 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. Although transfer speeds are slower, this won't impact game load times on the Switch, which caps speeds at about 95MB/s. The card's 512GB capacity offers ample space for your gaming library, video clips, and more, with options up to 1TB available.

This card is built to last, protecting your game data from water, extreme temperatures, X-rays, and magnets. It can even withstand drops over 16 feet, ensuring durability beyond what the Switch itself can handle.

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 is perfect for storing over 75 Switch titles. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity1TB Transfer SpeedsUp to 150MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSHigh capacityFast downloadsCONSPriceyThe SanDisk Ultra A1 SD card with 1TB of storage is an excellent choice for the Nintendo Switch. Its transfer speeds of up to 150MB/s ensure fast downloads, and its capacity can hold well over 75 titles. Most Switch games are under 15GB, making this card more than sufficient for your needs. Larger games, ranging from 30GB to 60GB, are rare, leaving plenty of room for screenshots and video captures.

4. SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

Best High Speed SD Card for Nintendo Switch

### SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

1Featuring QuickFlow Technology for optimized file 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. It uses QuickFlow Technology to optimize files for superior performance, which is particularly beneficial for reducing game load times. With 256GB of storage, you can maintain a substantial game library. Although the Switch doesn't support 4K, this card is designed for rapid 4K content transfer, making it ideal for quickly moving 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 with ample storage and solid performance. 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 features a striking design with the iconic triforce symbol. At 1TB, it offers plenty of storage for your games. While its speeds are lower than other options, it's the only card on our list officially licensed by Nintendo, making it a great choice for fans who want to showcase their love for 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. Storage capacity is a primary consideration; a 128GB card might suffice for lighter gamers, but larger titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, at 16GB, require more space. Ensure the card is compatible with the Switch, which supports microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC formats. Avoid SD or miniSD cards as they are not compatible.

Transfer speed is another crucial factor. Higher speeds improve gameplay. Speed classes are graded in 2, 4, 6, or 10, with higher numbers indicating faster minimum baseline speeds. Cards with a UHS (Ultra High Speed) class, such as UHS-1, are ideal for the Switch.

Nintendo Switch SD Card FAQs

Do you need an SD card for the Switch?

An SD 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. Many third-party titles exceed 32GB, which is the onboard storage for the standard Switch and Switch Lite models.

How much storage do you actually need?

A 256GB SD card or higher should be sufficient for most users. Large Nintendo titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Xenoblade Chronicles 3 are only around 16GB and 14GB, respectively. If you mainly play Nintendo-developed games, a 256GB card should be more than enough. However, for larger third-party releases like Mortal Kombat 1, consider a 512GB or larger card. The latest NBA 2K game on the Switch takes up over 60GB, so the right SD card size depends on your gaming preferences.

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

With the Nintendo Switch 2's confirmed backward compatibility, it's safe to assume that SD cards used with the current Switch will be compatible. Handheld gaming devices typically use similar SD cards, so there won't be any specific Switch 2 requirements to worry about. However, consider purchasing a 1TB or larger card if you plan to use it with the next console.