Leaked GameStop SKUs Suggest Nintendo Switch 2 Will Support microSD Express Cards

Recent leaks suggest a significant upgrade for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2: support for microSD Express cards. This revelation, stemming from GameStop SKUs allegedly related to Switch 2 accessories, points to substantial improvements in storage technology compared to the original Switch.

The Switch 2's mass production is rumored to have begun in late 2024, possibly as early as September, a claim supported by a surge of hardware leaks throughout Q4 2024. Early January 2025 saw further leaks, this time from Reddit user Opposite-Chemistry96, showcasing GameStop SKUs for "Switch 2 Exp Micro SD Card" accessories in 256GB and 512GB capacities. This strongly implies compatibility with the microSD Express standard.

A Quantum Leap in Transfer Speeds

The current Switch utilizes UHS-I microSD cards, boasting theoretical maximum transfer speeds of around 104 MB/s, though practically reaching approximately 95 MB/s. The microSD Express standard, however, offers a remarkable improvement, achieving speeds near 985 MB/s—a nearly 900% increase. This dramatic speed boost is attributed to the use of the NVMe protocol, the same technology powering the fastest modern SSDs, enabling highly parallel data transfer.

UHS-I vs. microSD Express: A Comparison

The capacity difference is equally impressive. While UHS-I cards max out at 2TB, microSD Express cards can reach up to 128TB – a staggering 6,300% increase. GameStop's leaked pricing suggests a 256GB Switch 2 microSD Express card will retail at $49.99, and a 512GB card at $84.99.

Further leaks from Opposite-Chemistry96 include SKUs for a standard Switch 2 carrying case ($19.99) and two "deluxe" cases ($29.99). While these are likely unofficial accessories, their appearance reinforces the ongoing stream of Switch 2 leaks. Nintendo has previously stated it will officially unveil the console before the end of its fiscal year (March 31, 2025), leaving just over two months for an official announcement.