At a Glance
- $40 for 256 GB, $80 for 512 GB Samsung P9 Express microSD cards
- Up to 800 Mbps transfer speed, rugged design
- Compatible only with the Switch 2’s newer microSD Express format
- Expands internal storage, lets you keep more games ready to play
- Why it matters: Switch 2 owners can avoid deleting titles and keep a larger library on hand
Nintendo’s latest handheld, the Switch 2, has been praised for its upgraded power and expanding game library. A common frustration among users, however, is the console’s limited internal storage. The new console ships with 64 GB of built-in memory, a size that quickly fills up when you add several high-definition games.
The Storage Shortfall
The Switch 2’s internal storage is designed to be a starting point, not a permanent home for all your favorite titles. When you download or install a game, the console uses that space until you delete it or move it to external storage. Because the Switch 2 supports only microSD Express cards, the choices for expansion are narrower than on some other platforms. This limits the number of deals available and can push prices higher.
Samsung P9 Express Cards: A Budget Fix
Samsung’s P9 Express line offers a direct solution. The 256 GB version is available for $40 and the 512 GB version for $80-a 33 % discount on the larger pack. The price difference between the two is $40, which is less than the cost of a new handheld in many cases.
Key Features
- Speed: Up to 800 Mbps transfer rate, which means faster load times and less waiting.
- Durability: Built to resist water, magnets, drops, X-rays, and extreme temperatures.
- Versatility: Works not only in the Switch 2 but also in cameras, drones, tablets, and other devices that accept microSD Express.
- Capacity: Doubling the internal space allows you to keep twice as many games ready to play.
How the Deal Helps
With the 256 GB card, you can store an additional 200-250 games, depending on size. The 512 GB card expands that number to roughly 400-500 titles. This reduces the need to delete and re-download games whenever you switch between genres.
The Switch 2’s architecture means that any game installed on a microSD card runs just as smoothly as one on internal memory. The console’s software automatically detects the external storage, and you can choose which titles to keep on the card or move back to the internal drive.
Timing is Critical
These discounts are short-lived. The 512 GB card’s 33 % off price is a rare opportunity, and retailers are likely to increase prices once the promotion ends. If you’re looking to expand your library, acting quickly will save you money and keep your gaming experience uninterrupted.
Beyond Gaming
While gamers are the primary audience, the card’s ruggedness and speed make it attractive for other tech users. Photographers can capture high-resolution images without worrying about storage limits. Drone enthusiasts can store longer flight recordings, and tablet users can install larger apps or media collections.
Compatibility Matters
Only the newer microSD Express format works with the Switch 2. Older microSD cards or those in the standard UHS-I class will not be recognized by the console. This exclusivity can make the market for compatible cards tighter, which is why the current price point is especially appealing.
Bottom Line
The Switch 2’s internal storage constraints are a legitimate pain point for many owners. Samsung’s 256 GB and 512 GB microSD Express cards provide a cost-effective, high-performance expansion that is hard to beat. With the console’s strict compatibility requirements, securing a card while it’s on sale is a smart move.
By purchasing one of these cards now, you can keep a larger library ready to play, reduce the hassle of deleting and re-downloading games, and enjoy faster load times-all while protecting your data with a durable, versatile storage solution.
Key Takeaways
- Switch 2 users face limited internal storage; external microSD Express cards are the only expansion.
- Samsung’s 256 GB card is $40; 512 GB card is $80, 33 % off.
- Up to 800 Mbps transfer speed and rugged design make these cards ideal for gaming and other tech uses.
- Act fast to lock in the discount before prices rise.
- Compatibility is strict: only newer microSD Express cards work with the Switch 2.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will the card slow down my games?
A: No. The Switch 2 is built to run games from microSD Express at the same speed as internal memory.
Q: Can I use the card in other devices?
A: Yes. The card is compatible with any device that accepts microSD Express.
Q: How long will the discount last?
A: The promotion is time-limited; prices are likely to increase after the sale ends.
Q: Do I need to format the card before use?
A: The card is factory-formatted for the Switch 2, so no additional steps are required.
Q: Is the card waterproof?
A: The rugged design protects against water, but it is not fully waterproof.
Q: Can I use the card for game saves?
A: The card can store game saves, but it is primarily intended for game installations.
Final Thoughts
For anyone looking to keep their Switch 2 library large and ready, the Samsung P9 Express microSD cards offer a compelling mix of price, speed, and durability. The current discounts make the purchase even more attractive, but the window is narrow. Grab one today and enjoy a smoother, more flexible gaming experience.
