Leaked GameStop SKUs Suggest Nintendo Switch 2 Will Support microSD Express Cards
Recent leaks point to a significant upgrade for the Nintendo Switch 2: support for microSD Express cards. This revelation, stemming from GameStop SKUs for purported Switch 2 accessories, hints at substantial improvements in storage technology compared to the original Switch.
The Switch 2's rumored mass production, potentially beginning as early as late September 2024, is further substantiated by a surge of online leaks detailing its hardware specifications since Q4 2024. Early January 2025 saw the surfacing of GameStop SKUs (originally shared by Reddit user Opposite-Chemistry96) listing "Switch 2 Exp Micro SD Card" products in 256GB and 512GB capacities. This strongly suggests compatibility with the microSD Express standard.
A Quantum Leap in Transfer Speeds
The current Nintendo Switch utilizes UHS-I microSD cards, achieving practical transfer speeds around 95 MB/s. In contrast, microSD Express, leveraging the NVMe protocol (similar to high-speed SSDs), boasts speeds approaching 985 MB/s – a remarkable 900% increase.
UHS-I vs. microSD Express: A Comparison
| Feature | UHS-I | microSD Express |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer Speed | ~95 MB/s | ~985 MB/s |
| Max Capacity | 2TB | 128TB |
The capacity advantage is equally impressive. While UHS-I cards max out at 2TB, microSD Express supports cards up to 128TB – a 6,300% improvement. GameStop's leaked pricing indicates a $49.99 price point for 256GB cards and $84.99 for 512GB cards.
Additional leaked SKUs include a Switch 2 carrying case ($19.99) and two "deluxe" cases ($29.99). While these are likely unofficial accessories, their appearance aligns with 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 just over two months for the announcement.
