Leaked GameStop SKUs Suggest Nintendo Switch 2 Will Support microSD Express Cards
Recent leaks point towards the Nintendo Switch 2 supporting microSD Express cards, a significant upgrade from its predecessor's UHS-I support. This suggests substantial improvements in storage technology for the upcoming console.
The rumor mill has been churning with details about the Switch 2, with reports suggesting mass production commenced in late 2024, possibly as early as September. This aligns with the surge of hardware leaks circulating since Q4 2024.
Adding fuel to the fire, GameStop SKUs surfaced in early January 2025, seemingly for unannounced Switch 2 accessories. These SKUs, originally shared on Reddit, list "Switch 2 Exp Micro SD Card" products in 256GB and 512GB capacities, strongly implying microSD Express compatibility.
A Significant Speed and Capacity Boost
The current Switch utilizes UHS-I microSD cards, offering practical transfer speeds around 95 MB/s. In contrast, microSD Express, leveraging the NVMe protocol, boasts speeds nearing 985 MB/s – a remarkable 900% increase.
| Feature | UHS-I | microSD Express |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer Speed | ~95 MB/s | ~985 MB/s |
| Maximum Capacity | 2TB | 128TB |
Beyond speed, microSD Express cards offer a massive capacity advantage. While UHS-I maxes out at 2TB, microSD Express supports cards up to 128TB – a 6300% improvement. The leaked GameStop pricing suggests a 256GB card at $49.99 and a 512GB card at $84.99.
The leak also includes SKUs for a standard Switch 2 carrying case ($19.99) and two deluxe versions ($29.99). While these are likely unofficial accessories, their appearance reinforces the ongoing stream of Switch 2 leaks.
Nintendo has committed to an official reveal before the end of its fiscal year (March 31, 2025), leaving a few months for the promised unveiling.
