Tag: microSD Express

  • Switch 2 Games Load Slower from Cartridges than MicroSD or Internal Storage

    Switch 2 Games Load Slower from Cartridges than MicroSD or Internal Storage

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 offers various storage options: internal storage, microSD Express cards, and Game-Key Cards, affecting game loading times.
    2. Internal storage (256GB UFS) performs the best, booting games in 16.60 seconds, while microSD Express cards range from 19.18 to 19.78 seconds, and cartridges take 23.91 seconds.
    3. Slower storage options could impact gameplay performance, especially for games that require loading large amounts of data.
    4. Nintendo may be limiting publishers to expensive 64GB cartridges, encouraging a shift towards digital sales over physical media.
    5. There are hopes that Nintendo will allow games from Game Cards to be installed in internal storage for faster loading and better game preservation.


    The various options for playing or storing Switch 2 games can make it hard for customers to decide. Besides cartridges, there’s internal storage, microSD Express cards, and even Game-Key Cards to think about. Nintendo fans who care about speed can look at a new benchmark that compares these different formats. It might not be surprising that the console’s built-in flash storage comes out on top, but the slower performance of Switch 2 cartridges could catch some gamers off guard.

    YouTuber’s Analysis

    YouTuber 4416Y took a closer look at the Switch 2 storage options using Mario Kart World for his test. In the video, viewers can see how fast the console boots the game right from the Home Menu. The Switch 2 has 256GB UFS internal storage, which achieves a speedy time of 16.60 seconds. Meanwhile, microSD Express cards from brands like SanDisk, Samsung, and Lexar take second place with times ranging from 19.18 to 19.78 seconds. Lastly, the Game Card or cartridge lags behind, clocking in at 23.91 seconds.

    Impact on Gameplay

    When a game needs to load a lot of data during play, having slower storage could really affect how it performs. The internals of Switch 2 cartridges haven’t been fully examined, but many think they use non-volatile flash memory. While the original Switch Game Cards have the same tech, the newer cartridges do offer quicker read speeds. Sadly, they still can’t match the performance of other storage formats that the handheld supports.

    Digital Gaming Shift

    Supporters of digital gaming now have a new reason to favor downloads over traditional physical media. There are rumors that Nintendo is restricting publishers to costly 64GB cartridges. Because smaller, cheaper options aren’t available, companies stand to gain more from digital sales. The release of Game-Key Cards tries to cater to both sides by providing physical media that depends on downloaded content.

    Some fans are hoping that Nintendo will let users install Switch 2 games from Game Cards into internal storage. This way, game preservation enthusiasts could enjoy faster load times while building up their cartridge collections.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Games Over 70 GB: Storage Space Alert

    Nintendo Switch 2 Games Over 70 GB: Storage Space Alert

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 will start shipping on June 5, and pre-orders may require an extra memory card due to large game sizes.
    2. Some Nintendo titles have increased storage requirements, with Mario Kart World at 23.4 GB and Donkey Kong Bananza at 10 GB.
    3. Third-party games can occupy significant space, with titles like Split Fiction needing 73 GB and Cyberpunk 2077 at 59 GB.
    4. Storage updates for existing Nintendo games also increase their size, such as The Legend of Zelda updates adding 9.8 GB and 3.6 GB.
    5. The Nintendo Switch 2 supports microSD Express cards up to 2TB for expanded game storage, with options like the Lexar 1TB and SanDisk 2TB cards available.


    The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to begin shipping on June 5. If you’ve already pre-ordered this console, you might need an extra memory card because certain new games demand more than 50 GB of space. This means you could fill the console’s internal storage after downloading just four games.

    Game Storage Requirements

    Typically, Nintendo’s own titles are not too large, and the Nintendo Switch 2 keeps this trend. For instance, Mario Kart World requires 23.4 GB, which is over three times larger than Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Additionally, Donkey Kong Bananza takes up 10 GB. The updates for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom raise the storage needs by 9.8 GB and 3.6 GB, respectively. Meanwhile, the upgrade for Kirby and the Forgotten Land nearly triples its storage requirement to 16.7 GB.

    Third-Party Game Sizes

    Some third-party games can take up a lot of space. For instance, Split Fiction needs 73 GB on the Nintendo Switch 2, which is only about 10% less than what is required on other platforms. Cyberpunk 2077 and Hitman World of Assassination both clock in at 59 GB, while Yakuza 0 needs 53.7 GB. The differences are significant, as shown by Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, which takes up 5.8 GB on the original Switch and 18.1 GB on the new version.

    Storage Expansion Options

    The Nintendo Switch 2 will be compatible with microSD Express cards that can hold up to 2TB, providing ample room for a variety of games. Some of the supported cards are the Lexar 1TB Play Micro SD Card and the SanDisk 2TB Extreme microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card.

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  • Benefits and Drawbacks of MicroSD Express for Nintendo Switch 2

    Benefits and Drawbacks of MicroSD Express for Nintendo Switch 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 features a 120Hz 1080p display and a dock with 4K HDR capability and an active fan.
    2. It supports microSD Express technology, allowing for data rates up to 985 MB/s, improving loading times significantly.
    3. Previous Nintendo Switch memory cards are not compatible with the Switch 2, necessitating new purchases.
    4. The cost of new microSD Express memory cards is higher, with a 512GB card priced at least $99.
    5. Increased game storage requirements may lead players to frequently delete games, although Nintendo’s cartridges allow play without upfront installation.


    The Nintendo Switch 2 has been officially revealed today. Notable upgrades include a 120Hz 1080p display, a dock with an active fan and 4K HDR capability, and enhanced multiplayer options. Among these improvements, the memory card reader stands out as a key feature. Unlike the original Nintendo Switch, which only supported UHS-I SD cards with speeds up to 104 MB/s, the Switch 2 now embraces microSD Express technology.

    Speed Improvements

    The main benefit of this upgrade is the speed increase. The slowest SD Express standard uses PCIe 3.0 x1, allowing for data rates of up to 985 MB/s. This can drastically reduce loading times for games. However, there are two major drawbacks for those looking to buy the Nintendo Switch 2. Firstly, memory cards from the previous Nintendo Switch cannot be transferred to the new device. Secondly, expanding storage for the new console is going to be more expensive.

    Pricing Details

    To illustrate, a 512 GB UHS-I memory card that works with the original Switch is available for $39 on Amazon. Conversely, the same brand sells a 256GB microSD Express card for $59, while a 512GB version will set you back at least $99.

    Game Storage Concerns

    Given that it’s likely Nintendo Switch 2 games will require more storage owing to the console’s superior resolution and graphics, the high prices for memory cards could compel players to frequently delete games to make room for new ones. However, it’s worth noting that Nintendo’s game cartridges allow users to purchase and play games without needing to install them upfront, unlike the PlayStation 5 and other competitors.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Retailer Leak: Launch Titles and Pricing Revealed

    Nintendo Switch 2 Retailer Leak: Launch Titles and Pricing Revealed

    It’s widely known that Nintendo is planning to launch a new version of the Switch, Switch Lite, and Switch OLED by the end of March. Although the company hasn’t provided many details, there are whispers of an announcement in January followed by a full release sometime in April. With these timelines in mind, it’s not surprising that stores are beginning to get insights about what’s coming next.

    GameStop’s New Offerings

    In line with these developments, GameStop has started offering microSD Express cards that provide transfer speeds similar to SSDs for the upcoming console. Recently, an employee or representative from French retailer Micromania shared new information about the so-called Switch 2. According to reports, Micromania has already set everything in place, with prices ranging from €69 to €79 for over 25 launch titles.

    Price Insights and Game Titles

    If these price estimates are correct, then games for the Switch 2 would be around €10 more expensive than current offerings. Additionally, Micromania’s internal records are rumored to include mentions of a new Mario Kart and even Super Mario Galaxy 3, instead of a new Super Mario Odyssey (currently priced at $47.89 on Amazon). It seems a similar price increase could apply to the console itself, which is expected to be priced at €399 in Europe. However, it’s important to remember that these details are just speculative at this point and should be viewed with a dose of caution until more solid proof emerges.

    Future Expectations

    The excitement around the Switch 2 is palpable, as fans eagerly await more information. As Nintendo prepares for this new chapter, retailers appear to be gearing up for the impending release. With a potential lineup of games and accessories, there’s much to look forward to in the coming months.

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