Best Nintendo Switch Memory Cards [2025] – Top microSDXC Cards for Performance & Storage
The Nintendo Switch is one of the most popular gaming consoles, but its limited built-in storage fills up quickly—especially with today’s large digital games, DLCs, and updates. If you want to download more games or improve game load times, upgrading with a high-speed microSD card is essential. In this guide, we compare the best Nintendo Switch memory cards for 2025, explain Switch microSD compatibility, and help you pick the right microSDXC card for storage, speed, and reliability—so you can get the best gaming experience possible.
Why You Need a Memory Card for Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch (32GB internal storage) and Nintendo Switch OLED (64GB internal storage) fill up fast—even with just a few big games. Popular titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom require over 16GB of space, while other AAA games and downloadable content (DLC) can quickly use up your available storage.
Expanding your storage with a high-performance microSD card is essential if you want to:
- Download more digital games and updates
- Save game progress without deleting old titles
- Improve load times and in-game performance
- Store screenshots, videos, and DLC hassle-free
For most Canadian gamers, a microSDXC card (64GB, 128GB, 256GB, or higher) offers the perfect upgrade for reliable, fast storage—so you can play more and worry less.
What Type of Memory Card Does the Nintendo Switch Support?
The Nintendo Switch supports three types of microSD cards:
- microSD: Up to 2GB (not suitable for modern games or large downloads)
- microSDHC: 4GB to 32GB (okay for indie titles or save data, but fills up quickly)
- microSDXC: 64GB to 2TB (recommended for most gamers—perfect for large games, updates, and downloadable content)
For the best gaming experience, always choose a high-speed microSDXC card. These cards offer the most storage and fastest performance, making them ideal for storing big AAA titles, DLC, and frequent updates.
Tip: If you use a microSDXC card for the first time, your Nintendo Switch may prompt you to install a quick system update. Make sure you’re connected to Wi-Fi before inserting your new card.
Best Nintendo Switch Memory Cards (Top Picks for 2025)
For fast load times and smooth gaming, choose a high-speed UHS-I microSDXC card with at least 100MB/s read speed.
Here are the top recommended memory cards for Nintendo Switch in Canada:
1. SanDisk Extreme microSDXC – Top Pick
- Capacity: 64GB to 1TB
- Read Speed: Up to 160MB/s
- Write Speed: Up to 90MB/s
- Why Choose SanDisk?
SanDisk is a trusted leader in memory cards, known for reliability and fast performance. The Extreme microSDXC ensures super-fast game loads and smooth gameplay. The officially licensed version is Nintendo-approved for maximum compatibility.
2. Samsung EVO Select microSDXC – Best Value
- Capacity: 64GB to 512GB
- Read Speed: Up to 130MB/s
- Write Speed: Up to 90MB/s
- Why Choose Samsung?
The Samsung EVO Select microSDXC offers high speed at a great price. It’s durable, dependable, and a top choice for budget-conscious gamers expanding their Switch storage.
3. Lexar Play microSDXC – Best for Large Libraries
- Capacity: 128GB to 1TB
- Read Speed: Up to 150MB/s
- Write Speed: Not specified
- Why Choose Lexar?
Lexar Play cards are optimized for gaming, with fast read speeds for quick loading. Ideal for players with large digital libraries who need maximum storage without sacrificing speed.
4. SanDisk microSDXC for Nintendo Switch – Officially Licensed
- Capacity: 64GB to 512GB
- Read Speed: Up to 100MB/s
- Write Speed: Up to 90MB/s
- Why Choose SanDisk (Official)?
This Nintendo Switch-licensed microSDXC card is engineered for the Switch, delivering trusted performance and seamless compatibility. A premium option for fans who want official branding and guaranteed results.
Pro Tip:
All of these cards are microSDXC UHS-I class and fully compatible with Nintendo Switch, Switch OLED, and Switch Lite. For most users, 128GB–256GB offers the best balance of price and capacity, but consider 512GB or more if you buy lots of digital games.
Comparison Table: Best Nintendo Switch Memory Cards (2025)
| Brand / Model | Capacity Options | Max Read Speed | Max Write Speed | Official Nintendo License | Best For | Buy Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
64GB–1TB | Up to 160MB/s | Up to 90MB/s | Available (special version) | All-around speed, reliability | Shop Now |
 |
64GB–512GB | Up to 130MB/s | Up to 90MB/s | No | Best value, affordable option | Shop Now |
 |
128GB–1TB | Up to 150MB/s | Not specified | No | Large libraries, fast loading | Sold Out |
 |
64GB–512GB | Up to 100MB/s | Up to 90MB/s | Yes (official Nintendo) | Brand assurance, compatibility | Shop Now |
How to Install & Format a Memory Card on Nintendo Switch
Expanding your Nintendo Switch storage is quick and easy. Follow these steps:
-
Turn off your Nintendo Switch completely before inserting a new memory card.
(Press and hold the power button, then select “Power Options” > “Turn Off”.) - Locate the microSD card slot behind the kickstand (on standard and OLED models).
- Insert the microSD card with the label facing outward (away from the console).
- Turn on your Nintendo Switch. The console will automatically detect the new card.
-
Format the microSD card if prompted on the screen.
(Follow the on-screen instructions to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. Formatting will erase all data on the card.)
Tip: Always back up any important files before formatting, and only insert or remove the microSD card when the Switch is powered off to avoid data corruption.
How Much Storage Do You Need for Your Nintendo Switch?
Choosing the right microSD card size depends on your gaming habits and how many digital games you plan to store:
- 64GB – 128GB: Ideal for casual gamers who buy mostly physical games or only a few digital titles (holds about 3–6 average-size games).
- 256GB – 512GB: Best for most players who enjoy buying digital games, DLCs, and updates. This range holds 10 or more AAA games plus plenty of indie titles, screenshots, and video clips.
- 1TB or more: Perfect for power users and hardcore gamers with huge digital libraries, frequent downloads, or those who share the console with family members.
Tip: The Nintendo Switch supports microSDXC cards up to 2TB. Buying a slightly larger card than you need now can save you from running out of space as your game collection grows!
Where to Buy the Best Nintendo Switch Memory Cards?
Ready to upgrade your Switch storage?
Shop top-rated microSD cards for Nintendo Switch at TopSelect.ca and enjoy:
- Exclusive Canadian deals on high-performance memory cards
- Bulk pricing for gamers and families
- Fast, reliable shipping from our Vancouver warehouse
Pro Tip: Don’t let storage slow you down—explore our full selection of Nintendo Switch-compatible memory cards and save today!
Final Thoughts
A high-speed microSD card is a must-have upgrade for every Nintendo Switch gamer. Expanding your storage lets you download more games, store updates, and enjoy faster load times—without worrying about running out of space.
Choosing a trusted brand like SanDisk, Samsung ensures top performance, long-lasting reliability, and full compatibility with your Nintendo Switch, Switch OLED, or Switch Lite. Invest in the right memory card now and experience smoother, more enjoyable gaming—whether you play solo or with family and friends.
What’s your favorite memory card for the Nintendo Switch?
Share your experience or ask questions in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions About Nintendo Switch Memory Cards
Q1. What’s the maximum microSD card size the Nintendo Switch supports?
- A: The Nintendo Switch supports microSDXC cards up to 2TB, though currently, the largest commonly available cards are 1TB.
Q2. Does the Nintendo Switch work with any microSD card?
- A: The Switch is compatible with microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards. For best results, use a UHS-I microSDXC card from a trusted brand like SanDisk, Samsung, or Lexar.
Q3. Do I need to format my new microSD card for the Nintendo Switch?
- A: Most new cards will work out of the box, but your Switch may prompt you to format the card for optimal performance and compatibility. Always back up important data before formatting.
Q4. What speed class should I choose for Switch memory cards?
- A: Choose a UHS-I (U1 or U3) microSDXC card with at least 100MB/s read speed for fast load times and smooth performance.
Q5. Can I use the same microSD card for my Switch and other devices?
- A: You can, but formatting the card for Switch will erase all data and may limit compatibility with other devices until it’s reformatted again.