Leaked GameStop SKUs Suggest Nintendo Switch 2 microSD Express Card Support
Recent leaks suggest the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 will support microSD Express cards, a significant upgrade from the UHS-I standard used in the original Switch. This potential upgrade points to substantial improvements in storage technology for the new console.
The rumor mill has been churning with Switch 2 details since late 2024, with mass production reportedly beginning in late September. Adding fuel to the fire, early January 2025 saw the leak of GameStop SKUs for what appear to be Switch 2 accessories. Reddit user Opposite-Chemistry96 shared images showing "Switch 2 Exp Micro SD Card" listings with 256GB and 512GB capacities, strongly indicating microSD Express support.
A Quantum Leap in Transfer Speeds
The difference between UHS-I and microSD Express is dramatic. UHS-I cards offer theoretical maximum speeds around 104 MB/s, with real-world performance often peaking at approximately 95 MB/s. In contrast, microSD Express cards boast speeds approaching 985 MB/s – a nearly tenfold increase thanks to the NVMe protocol, the same technology powering high-speed SSDs.
Capacity Enhancements
Capacity also sees a massive boost. While UHS-I cards max out at 2TB, microSD Express cards can reach up to 128TB.
Pricing and Further Leaks
GameStop's leaked internal data suggests pricing of $49.99 for a 256GB Switch 2 microSD Express card and $84.99 for a 512GB version. The leak also included SKUs for a standard Switch 2 carrying case ($19.99) and two deluxe cases ($29.99). While these are likely unofficial accessories, their appearance further supports the growing body of evidence surrounding the Switch 2.
Nintendo has committed to an official reveal before the end of its fiscal year (March 31, 2025), leaving just a few months for the official unveiling.
Comparison Table: UHS-I vs. microSD Express
| Feature | UHS-I | microSD Express |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer Speed | ~95 MB/s | ~985 MB/s |
| Max Capacity | 2TB | 128TB |
