Leaked GameStop SKUs Suggest Nintendo Switch 2 Will Support microSD Express Cards
Recent leaks suggest the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 will boast significant storage improvements, potentially supporting microSD Express cards. This revelation comes from several GameStop stock keeping units (SKUs) seemingly related to unannounced Switch 2 accessories. These SKUs, initially shared on Reddit, list "Switch 2 Exp Micro SD Card" options in 256GB and 512GB capacities, strongly indicating compatibility with the microSD Express standard.
This represents a substantial upgrade from the current Switch's UHS-I microSD card support. microSD Express offers dramatically faster transfer speeds and higher storage capacities.
Speed and Capacity Enhancements:
The current Switch's UHS-I cards offer theoretical maximum transfer speeds around 104 MB/s, practically reaching approximately 95 MB/s. In contrast, microSD Express cards boast speeds nearing 985 MB/s—a remarkable 900% increase. This speed boost is attributed to the use of the NVMe protocol, similar to high-performance modern SSDs.
Capacity also sees a massive jump. While UHS-I cards max out at 2TB, microSD Express supports cards up to 128TB—a 6300% improvement.
Pricing and Other Leaks:
GameStop's internal system, as depicted in the leaked image, shows pricing for the Switch 2 microSD Express cards: $49.99 for 256GB and $84.99 for 512GB. Additional leaked SKUs include a standard Switch 2 carrying case ($19.99) and two "deluxe" cases ($29.99).
While these accessories are likely unofficial, their appearance reinforces the ongoing wave of Switch 2 leaks. Nintendo has previously stated its intention to officially unveil the console before the end of its fiscal year (March 31, 2025), leaving only a few months until we might see an official announcement.
Comparison Table: UHS-I vs. microSD Express
| Feature | UHS-I | microSD Express |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer Speed | ~95 MB/s | ~985 MB/s |
| Max Capacity | 2TB | 128TB |
The leaked information strongly suggests a significant technological leap for the Switch 2's storage capabilities. The faster transfer speeds and vastly increased storage capacity promise a smoother and more versatile gaming experience.
