Leaked GameStop SKUs Suggest Nintendo Switch 2 microSD Express Support
Recent leaks suggest the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 will boast significant storage improvements, potentially supporting microSD Express cards. This information stems from several GameStop stock keeping units (SKUs) seemingly related to unreleased Switch 2 accessories. These SKUs, initially shared on Reddit, list "Switch 2 Exp Micro SD Card" options in 256GB and 512GB capacities, strongly indicating microSD Express compatibility.
A Quantum Leap in Transfer Speeds
The current Nintendo Switch utilizes UHS-I microSD cards, offering practical transfer speeds around 95 MB/s. The microSD Express standard, however, promises a dramatic increase, reaching approximately 985 MB/s – a nearly 900% improvement. This substantial speed boost is attributed to the use of the NVMe protocol, similar to that found in high-performance SSDs.
Capacity Enhancements
Beyond speed, microSD Express cards offer a massive capacity advantage. While UHS-I cards max out at 2TB, microSD Express cards can reach up to 128TB. This represents a staggering 6,300% increase in potential storage.
Pricing and Other Leaks
GameStop's internal system, as shown in the leaked image, lists the 256GB Switch 2 microSD Express card at $49.99 and the 512GB version at $84.99. Additional leaks from the same source include SKUs for a standard Switch 2 carrying case ($19.99) and two "deluxe" cases ($29.99).
While these accessories are likely unofficial, their appearance reinforces the mounting evidence suggesting the Switch 2's imminent release. Nintendo has previously stated its intention to unveil the console before the end of its fiscal year (March 31, 2025), leaving only a few months until we potentially receive official confirmation.
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 that the Switch 2 will offer a significant upgrade in storage technology, providing gamers with faster transfer speeds and substantially increased storage capacity.
