Nintendo Switch 2 Leak Hints at Huge Storage Improvement

Leaked GameStop SKUs Suggest Nintendo Switch 2 Will Support microSD Express Cards

Recent leaks suggest a significant upgrade for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2: support for microSD Express cards. This revelation, stemming from GameStop SKUs for purported Switch 2 accessories, points to 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 supported by a surge of hardware leaks throughout Q4 2024 and into early 2025. These leaks, including the GameStop SKUs shared by Reddit user Opposite-Chemistry96, list "Switch 2 Exp Micro SD Card" products in 256GB and 512GB capacities. This strongly indicates compatibility with the microSD Express standard.

A Quantum Leap in Transfer Speeds

The current Nintendo Switch utilizes UHS-I microSD cards, boasting theoretical maximum transfer speeds around 104 MB/s (real-world speeds often peak near 95 MB/s). In contrast, microSD Express cards leverage the NVMe protocol, enabling transfer speeds approaching 985 MB/s – a staggering 900% increase. This parallel data transfer technology is similar to that used in high-performance modern SSDs.

UHS-I vs. microSD Express: A Comparison

The capacity advantage is equally impressive. While UHS-I cards max out at 2TB, microSD Express cards support up to 128TB – a 6,300% improvement. GameStop's leaked pricing suggests a 256GB card at $49.99 and a 512GB card at $84.99.

Further leaks from Opposite-Chemistry96 include SKUs for a standard Switch 2 carrying case ($19.99) and two "deluxe" cases ($29.99). While these are likely unofficial accessories, their presence adds to 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.