MicroSD Express Cards Skyrocket in Popularity Ahead of Nintendo Switch 2 Launch

25 April 2025
Nintendo Switch 2
7 min.
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MicroSD Express Cards Skyrocket in Popularity Ahead of Nintendo Switch 2 Launch

Summary:

Ever since Nintendo dropped the bombshell that the Nintendo Switch 2 will rely on MicroSD Express cards for external storage, gamers haven’t wasted a second. In Japan, specifically at the tech hotspot Hermitage Akihabara, staff report mind-boggling numbers—over 300 MicroSD Express cards sold per hour. As excitement ramps up for the official launch on June 5, this sudden demand surge reveals just how essential storage has become in modern gaming. This piece uncovers what’s behind the craze, what MicroSD Express actually offers, and why gamers everywhere are scrambling to future-proof their setups. We break down what makes these cards a must-have and why you should act before stock vanishes. Spoiler alert: June 5 is going to be wild.

Why Nintendo Switch 2 Needs Better Storage

The original Nintendo Switch had many things going for it—portability, exclusive games, versatility. But if there was one thing that often left users groaning, it was storage. With massive titles and downloadable content ballooning in size, the console’s default memory could barely keep up. Enter the Nintendo Switch 2. It’s promising more power, bigger games, and better performance. Naturally, that also means it’s going to demand faster, more capable storage. MicroSD Express is Nintendo’s answer to that need, offering lightning-fast speeds that keep load times snappy and gameplay uninterrupted. This decision was a long time coming—and fans are here for it.

Gamers Have Outgrown Slow Load Times

As games get larger and more graphically intense, waiting for levels to load or data to install can become unbearable. The bottleneck? Often, it’s the storage. The Switch 2 promises a leap forward not just in graphics but in how fast it can process and deliver content—and that starts with storage that can keep up. MicroSD Express cards step into that role with blazing fast speeds, finally removing a persistent frustration.

Storage Isn’t Just About Space—It’s About Speed

We’ve all seen it: you’re midway through a game and it pauses to buffer or stutters during gameplay. A common culprit is read/write speed. Regular MicroSD cards can’t handle high-speed data transfer, especially not for next-gen games. MicroSD Express changes that game entirely. It doesn’t just hold more—it moves faster.

What Are MicroSD Express Cards and Why They Matter

MicroSD Express is the next evolution in portable storage. Unlike standard MicroSD cards, these use the PCIe interface—commonly seen in internal SSDs—which means data transfer speeds are leagues ahead. You’re looking at a theoretical limit of up to 985 MB/s, depending on the card. That’s fast enough to run big games directly off the card without breaking a sweat. For the Nintendo Switch 2, this means seamless open-world experiences, smoother updates, and faster boots. The excitement isn’t just hype—it’s well-earned.

Compact But Crazy Powerful

Despite their size, MicroSD Express cards pack a serious punch. Gamers can now carry entire libraries in their pocket without sacrificing performance. They’re ideal for handheld consoles like the Switch 2, where physical space is limited but digital needs are expansive. Think of it as turning your pocket-sized console into a performance powerhouse.

How the Announcement Sparked a Buying Frenzy

The moment Nintendo confirmed that MicroSD Express cards would be the primary external memory for the Switch 2, it was like flipping a switch. Retailers saw spikes in demand overnight. Gamers didn’t just want to be ready—they wanted to be first. And with the potential for limited supply at launch, the race was on. The news spread like wildfire across forums, social media, and gaming communities. Suddenly, everyone wanted in on the action.

A Tech Rush Like No Other

Move over Black Friday—Nintendo just created its own memory card holiday. People started bulk-buying, pre-ordering, and even flipping high-capacity cards for a quick profit. It’s not just about need—it’s about status, preparation, and peace of mind. No one wants to be stuck on launch day with no way to install that hot new title.

Japan’s Unbelievable Sales Surge in Real-Time

While global interest exploded, nowhere was the mania more evident than in Japan—specifically Akihabara. At Hermitage Akihabara, staff claimed they were selling more than 337 MicroSD Express cards per hour. Let that sink in. That’s nearly six cards every minute. Imagine standing at the counter and watching the stock fly off the shelves like candy during Halloween. The Japanese gaming community is often a bellwether for tech trends, and this time they’ve spoken loud and clear: MicroSD Express is non-negotiable.

Why Akihabara Sets the Tone

Akihabara isn’t just a shopping district—it’s the heart of Japan’s electronics and gaming culture. If a trend catches fire there, it’s only a matter of time before it goes global. With queues forming outside shops and resellers swooping in, the buzz was undeniable. Gamers know that if it’s hot in Akihabara, it’ll be hot everywhere soon.

Hermitage Akihabara is no stranger to sudden demand spikes. Still, this one caught even them off guard. Known for its early access to hardware and tech accessories, the store quickly became the epicenter of the MicroSD Express craze. Whether it was the right marketing, the right stock, or the right timing, they nailed it. And the numbers speak for themselves—hundreds sold per hour, with many customers buying multiples at once. If you want a snapshot of what’s coming, look no further than Hermitage’s sales counter.

Comparing Standard MicroSD vs MicroSD Express

The difference between standard MicroSD and MicroSD Express is like comparing a bicycle to a race car. Regular MicroSDs offer speeds that can feel sluggish under modern gaming demands. MicroSD Express, on the other hand, delivers near-SSD performance in a tiny format. That means shorter loading times, faster updates, and smoother overall gameplay. Plus, compatibility with newer devices makes it a smarter long-term investment.

Gamers want performance, not patience. When you’ve spent hours downloading a game, the last thing you want is slow loading or lag during play. MicroSD Express solves that pain point and future-proofs your setup for years to come. It’s not just an upgrade—it’s a necessity.

Preparing for the Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Day

With June 5 just around the corner, now’s the time to get your gear in order. That includes making sure you’ve secured a compatible MicroSD Express card. Don’t wait for the rush—if Japan’s any indicator, stock could disappear overnight. Check compatibility lists, read reviews, and make the purchase now rather than regret it later. Getting a MicroSD Express card now means you’re ready to play right out of the box.

Don’t Let Memory Be the Bottleneck

It’s a terrible feeling to unwrap a shiny new console only to realize you can’t download or run the games you want. Avoid the panic and disappointment by preparing ahead. Make sure your card is fast enough, big enough, and reliable enough to handle the next generation of gaming.

What This Means for Gamers and Collectors

The Switch 2 isn’t just another console—it’s a statement. And part of that statement is how Nintendo’s embracing cutting-edge tech like MicroSD Express. Gamers benefit from better performance, but collectors gain too. Owning the right accessories early on means less stress, better gameplay, and more value over time. It’s not just about playing games—it’s about building an experience worth having.

Smart Shopping Tips Before June 5

If you’re looking to grab a MicroSD Express card before the launch, pay attention to more than just price. Check read/write speeds, durability ratings, and brand reputation. Some cards advertise big speeds but don’t deliver consistently. Go with known names and watch out for fakes. When in doubt, stick to major retailers or trusted electronics shops. Also, consider storage size carefully—64GB won’t cut it anymore. Think 256GB or more for a smoother ride.

Long-Term Implications for Console Storage Tech

With Nintendo adopting MicroSD Express, it’s likely other brands will follow. Faster external storage is becoming a baseline expectation, not a luxury. This shift might just set a new industry standard, pushing other consoles and even handheld devices to catch up. What seems like a specific upgrade now could become the norm in gaming tech. In other words, MicroSD Express isn’t a trend—it’s the future.

Conclusion

As June 5 approaches, the excitement around the Nintendo Switch 2 and its storage needs is hitting a boiling point. MicroSD Express cards aren’t just a smart purchase—they’re practically a requirement. The rush in Japan signals what’s coming globally, and if you want smooth gameplay without hiccups, it’s best to be ready. From lightning-fast speeds to future-proofing your setup, these tiny cards pack a serious punch. Don’t wait—secure yours now and get set for next-level gaming.

FAQs
  • Do I need a MicroSD Express card to use the Nintendo Switch 2?
    • No, but it’s highly recommended if you want fast performance and enough space for large games.
  • Can I use my old MicroSD card in the new Switch?
    • Yes, older cards are still compatible, but they won’t offer the speed benefits of MicroSD Express.
  • What size MicroSD Express card should I buy?
    • Aim for at least 256GB, especially if you plan to download many large titles.
  • Where can I buy reliable MicroSD Express cards?
    • Stick to trusted retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, or specialized electronics stores like Hermitage Akihabara.
  • Are MicroSD Express cards more expensive?
    • Yes, they cost more than standard cards, but the performance boost makes them worth it for serious gamers.
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