Latest news with #microSDExpress
Gizmodo
17 hours ago
- Gizmodo
Finally, We're Seeing More Ways to Quadruple Your Switch 2's Paltry Storage
If you're like me, your hungry Switch 2's belly is already full up with a slate of launch games combined with your backlog of original Switch titles. When a growing number of games take up 60GB or more on your new handheld, you'll want to look for extra storage options. Unfortunately, every option available right now costs close to half of what you already need to spend on Nintendo's $450 handheld console. The Switch 2 only accepts microSD Express cards, not stock-standard microSD. Express-level cards first debuted in 2023 to enable faster write speeds. For cameras, this meant images would load onto the card much faster after you press the shutter button. For gaming, the cards write faster, but they also read quicker as well. When games take up more storage space, being able to load that data faster matters. Fellow memory card maker Lexar announced the first 1TB microSD Express card back in April. That card cost $200 and had 900MB/s read and 600MB/s write speeds. GameStop also sells a 1TB card for $190. UK-based company Team Group, which makes memory cards and SSDs, dropped details about its Apex SD7.1 microSD Express with a standout 1TB of storage. That's four times the amount of space you get with the Switch 2, and it seems extra enticing until you realize there's no word about when it will be available and little to hint about how much it will cost. Team Group's Apex card has read and write speeds of up to 800MB/s and 700MB/s, respectively. Such a card would technically be able to handle 16 60GB games or 45 games the size of Mario Kart World. These newfangled microSD Express cards can plug into older handhelds, but you won't see the same read and write speeds on devices that normally support base microSD. Older full-size SD Cards with the SDXC (Secure Digital eXtended Capacity) standard with storage options up to 2TB max out at around 300 MB/s read speeds. You don't have to look too far in the past to see how the cost might scale on such a new form of flash storage. The first 1TB microSD card from SanDisk cost $450 at launch in spring 2019. That's as much as a Switch 2 today. Prices slipped fast once more manufacturers jumped on the 1TB train, and today you can grab that same SanDisk card for under $90. Currently, you can get a Nintendo-branded 256GB Samsung microSD Express card with a little Mario 'M' for $60. A 512GB ONN card also goes for $60, but that's currently sold out on sites like Walmart. Pricing doesn't scale linearly, but with more cards available, the cost of 1TB Express-level cards could come down at a relatively fast pace. Nintendo was very excited to tell the world the Switch 2 had eight times the amount of storage capacity of the original Switch. However, all that means is the sequel handheld has a bare 256GB to hold your mountain of games. Games like Street Fighter VI ask for 48.3 GB, while Split Fiction demands a full 73GB. What compounds this issue is the number of launch titles that don't exist on Nintendo's game cards. Games can come in three different digital formats: either as digital download only, as a code-in-a-box, or as a game-key card. The latter is a physical card that essentially acts as a code to download the game from Nintendo's eShop. You can't play the game without the card inserted into the Switch 2. Older microSD cards have completely different pin configurations, and they aren't compatible with the Switch 2. MicroSD Express can use two more modern standards of interfacing with devices, including PCI Express or NVM Express, which allow for faster speeds than the microSD card interface. Still, if you're installing your games on your system, you should look to fill up your internal storage first. Tests of load speeds on Mario Kart World show that the game loads three seconds faster through internal storage than through a microSD Express card. The Lexar card with the highest storage space played catch-up with the smaller Samsung and SanDisk cards. Coming up last was the flash storage on the physical game card. I would sacrifice slightly faster load times for the sake of actually owning the games I play, but if you play on Switch 2, you may not have the choice.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
Born for Switch – AGI Technology Launches High-Speed microSD Express Card TF338
TAIPEI , Taiwan, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- To support the new storage standard adopted by Nintendo Switch 2, AGI proudly announces the release of the TF338 microSD Express card. Built on the microSD Express standard and powered by the PCIe Gen3 x1 interface with NVMe protocol, the TF338 delivers performance far beyond traditional microSD cards—offering up to 800MB/s read and 700MB/s write speeds for lightning-fast game loading and data to previous UHS-I microSD cards, microSD Express offers more than 4 times faster speeds, approaching SSD-level performance. This makes the TF338 an ideal solution for both high-performance gaming and mobile content creation. The card is backward compatible with UHS-I devices and has passed multiple durability tests—ensuring water, dust, shock, and temperature resistance for stable operation across demanding environments. AGI Technology states that the TF338 is not only engineered for next-generation gaming consoles, but also reflects the brand's ongoing commitment to next-level storage innovation—empowering gamers and creators with reliable, efficient, and ultra-portable memory solutions. For additional product details and specifications, please visit: About AGIAGI is a leading provider of high-performance storage solutions, dedicated to delivering innovative products that cater to the evolving needs of its customers. With a commitment to offering cutting-edge storage capacity and superior performance, AGI empowers users with reliable solutions for an enhanced digital experience. Contact InformationSales Teamsales@ A photo accompanying this announcement is available at in to access your portfolio
Express Tribune
4 days ago
- Express Tribune
Man arrested for stealing $10,000 in Nintendo Switch games from California libraries
Switch 2 comes equipped with 256 GB of internal storage—eight times the capacity of the original Switch—along with the ability to add more storage via microSD Express cards. PHOTO: YAHOO NEWS A man from Oakland, California, has been arrested for allegedly stealing nearly $10,000 worth of Nintendo Switch games from multiple public libraries in Marin County, according to a June 17 statement by the Marin County Sheriff's Office on Facebook. The thefts reportedly occurred across at least seven library branches between April and June 2025. Authorities believe the suspect intentionally targeted libraries for their video game collections, focusing on Nintendo Switch titles. He is now facing 12 felony charges, including several counts of burglary and committing a felony while already out on bail. Although libraries are not typically known for stocking popular video games, many have expanded their offerings to attract younger visitors. The continued success of the Nintendo Switch—and the recent release of the Switch 2—may have made these collections more appealing to potential thieves. It remains unclear if any of the stolen items included Switch 2 games. In a public statement, the Sheriff's Office emphasized the role of libraries in the community, writing, 'Our libraries are pillars of the community and must be safeguarded for everyone to enjoy.' The specific titles stolen have not been disclosed, but with individual games typically priced between $40 and $60, the estimated $10,000 value suggests that more than 150 games were taken. Authorities have not yet confirmed how the suspect intended to use or resell the games, and no information has been released on whether any of the stolen items have been recovered. As the investigation continues, the Sheriff's Office urges public support to help safeguard community resources like local libraries.
Stuff.tv
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Stuff.tv
I tested dozens of Nintendo Swatch 2 accessories, and these are ones I'd actually spend money on
The Nintendo Switch 2 is a shiny piece of hardware, our best handheld gaming console, and arguably Nintendo's most premium console ever made. While it comes built in with many great features out of the box, from its incredible noise-cancelling mic to its magnetic Joy-Con that can act as single controllers and mice, there's still plenty more you'll want to buy to enhance the experience. Of course, if you owned a Switch previously, you'll be pleased to know that many of your old accessories will still be compatible, albeit with some limitations, but some things need to be upgraded, such as the new microSD Express cards, while old controllers can't be used to turn on your console. Whether you're after extra controllers for different play styles or occasions, need extra juice when taking it on the go and also want to make sure it's well protected, we've put together some of the best accessories you'll want to get your hands on along to go with your new Nintendo investment. Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller Given that the Pro Controller for the original Switch has proven popular for even those who don't own Nintendo's console, there wasn't much that needed to change with this new version. The design is almost the same but sports a sleeker matte finish that complements the new, more premium-feeling console, though it does feel a bit more slippery without textured grips. The d-pad, however, feels like an improvement, a test of Tetris in Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S, showing I was no longer mis-dropping blocks like before. There are, however, more additions, such as the C-button for GameChat and a much-requested headphone jack for you to plug in a headset. But the standout feature (and likely why this is more expensive than its predecessor) is two programmable back buttons on the rear grips called GL and GR, which you can even map the capture button to so that you can finally take screenshots while still fully in control of gameplay. Nintendo Switch 2 Camera The console already has a built-in mic to take advantage of the new GameChat feature, but if you also want to be seen by your friends, then you'll want to get an official camera. While you can also plug in any USB-C webcam as well, this camera has both 1080p resolution and a wide lens to ensure it can capture you or anyone else in your living room and zoom in accordingly while ensuring you still appear visible on your friends' Game Chat feeds as if you were streaming directly to them. The camera also comes with a stand that is easy to adjust, at a height you can place behind the Switch 2 dock, or you can also use it when playing in handheld or tabletop mode. SanDisk MicroSD Express Card While the Switch 2 comes with 256GB of internal storage, the larger size of Switch 2 games means you'll definitely need to expand your storage, and your old microSDs will not be good enough. MicroSD Express has much faster read speeds and enables games to load much faster than previously. However, the only cards you're likely to find only offer an additional 256GB, with larger sizes either scarce or running extortionate prices. You might get confused by the labelling over whether or not you have the right card. Fortunately, you'll be glad to know that Nintendo is selling an officially licensed express card and isn't charging extra for it. GameCube Controller – Nintendo Classics GameCube games are finally available to Switch Online members with the expansion pack tier, and the best way to enjoy them is with a GameCube controller – indeed, the analogue shoulder buttons make it essential for F-Zero GX. While it's been possible to use OG wired GameCube controllers and an adaptor for dedicated Super Smash Bros. players, this new wireless controller, available exclusively on My Nintendo Store, has a nicer matte finish as well as additional buttons like the Home, Capture and C-Button. Just bear in mind that it's not going to be ideal as your only other controller since it's missing several inputs that a modern controller has. Beyerdynamic MMX 330 Pro Gaming Headset While this is a professional studio-quality open-back gaming headset for PC, a console adaptor means you can still plug it into either your Switch 2's audio jack or a Switch 2 pro controller so that you can enjoy incredible sound and comfortable pads for extended gaming sessions, whether at home or on the go. It's admittedly quite pricey for what it is, and annoyingly, its microphone isn't detachable, which might make it less appealing to take on the train, but you'll at least also be able to make use of it during GameChat sessions, as the noise-cancelling tech is in the Switch 2 hardware itself. Belkin Portable Power Bank with Integrated Cable Switch 2's battery life is unfortunately not great, so you want to ensure you have a power bank if you're planning to take it on a long-haul trip. This power bank from Belkin is about the size of an iPhone (albeit thicker) and has a rechargeable 20,000 mAh battery, which can recharge your console twice. It also comes with an integrated cable in case you forget to bring a cable, just enough to plug into the device's USB-C port on top when playing in tabletop mode. Of course, it also has an additional USB-C and USB 2.0 port if you need to charge your phone or another device. SnakeByte System Organiser S2 This is a bargain because only for a quid more than the official carry case, you actually get not just a carry case for your Switch 2 but also for its other components, including the dock, cables, and even room for other accessories like a controller and power bank. The Switch 2 case itself is moulded nicely for the triggers, buttons and sticks and contains space for 10 game cards and comes with a wrist strap if you want to carry it hands-free. This can then fit on the top part of the system organiser, while an an attachable and adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy and comfortable to take your whole console with you whether it's for a house party or you're heading home for the holidays. Belkin Gaming Nintendo Switch 2 Charger Case If you're taking your Switch 2 places, then a protective case is essential, but this dedicated case also comes with a power bank that fits snugly inside the case with a cable that can neatly plug into the console while stored, ensuring that once you're seated and have time to relax you'll find your Switch 2 has plenty of juice. That does however make for a bulkier case though it does have a handle so that you can carry it in your hand instead of putting it in your bag, while it also has room to store 12 game cards, additional cables or Joy-Con wrist straps, and even a hidden space you can fit an AirTag. PowerA Advantage Wired Controller If you're after a budget controller, PowerA has a range of wired Switch 2 controllers, each sporting some Nintendo-themed designs. On the whole, it's not that different from the company's Switch 1 range, apart from of course the addition of a C-button and headphone jack to take advantage of GameChat functionality. Its lower cost does mean it skimps on a few other features, such as HD rumble, gyro controls and NFC support for Amiibo, but it does have programmable back buttons. The caveat is that these are not the same as the GL and GR buttons on the official Switch 2 pro controller. For that reason, you won't be able to use these back buttons to take a screenshot. SnakeByte Twin Charge S2 While you can still use Switch 1 Joy-Cons, if you do plan to buy more Switch 2 Joy-Cons you'll also want new charging docks for them since they have new designs. For this Twin Charge, you just need to put each Joy-Con down on its side much like when using them as a mouse and an LED light on the front will let you know when it is charging or fully charged. There's also a Quad Charge available if you plan on buying more of Joy-Con 2s, perhaps when more colours and designs are available in future.
Stuff.tv
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Stuff.tv
Why I found microSD Express won't solve your Nintendo Switch 2 storage problems
The Nintendo Switch was the first console I embraced going digital with my games. There's something alluring about having your entire library installed and ready to play at any time. Sadly, that kind of luxury isn't really an option on my Switch 2. Nintendo's new console might have a seemingly generous 256GB of internal storage (more like around 230GB after accounting for system files), compared to the paltry 32GB of its predecessor and 64GB of the Switch OLED – but I used all of it up testing just a fraction of the Switch 2's launch line-up. Simply put, Switch 2 game file sizes are way larger than before. Mario Kart World weighs in at 23.4GB; the majority of my Switch 1 game collection ate between 2-8GB apiece. Third-party ports have absolutely ballooned, too; Hitman: World of Assassination – Signature Edition is around 60GB, and an update temporarily demanded an additional 55GB of space on top of that. If you're wanting to play the big blockbusters, you're likely going to find yourself fitting no more than around five games. Express yourself And that's before even thinking of your back catalogue if you had upgraded from the original Switch. Over the course of eight years, I had amassed hundreds of games, and although I eventually did have to uninstall some, I could still retain a significant portion of my library. That's because it was always possible to gradually expand the console storage with relatively affordable microSD cards. I started with one 128GB card, but as time went by I would upgrade to larger sizes until eventually peaking with 512GB. However, Switch 2 uses microSD Express cards. The name itself isn't the most obvious differentiator, especially when many cards come with a bunch of other nonsensical acronyms (you're essentially looking for the 'EX' logo). But there's another distinction that'll stand out: they cost a lot more. You can pick up a 256GB microSD card under £20, but a microSD Express with the same storage will currently set you back £50. The only upside is that Nintendo isn't charging extra for an officially licensed one, like it has done in the past. These new Express cards have much faster read speeds than the bog-standard ones. While not on the same level as SSDs, they're essential for loading up the seamless interconnected tracks in Mario Kart World or those hugely reduced loading times when fast-travelling in Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Switch 1 games saved to microSD Express also see reduced loading times, even without a Switch 2-specific patch. However, Nintendo has blocked any old microSDs you'd previously bought from working at all, even if you just wanted to use them for storing Switch 1 games. It's an annoyingly inflexible move, when PC-based handhelds like the Steam Deck let you mix and match whatever SSD and microSDs you like. Other consoles at least let you connect an external HDD drive, too. Low-key game-keys Even if money is no issue, you're going to have a hard time finding a larger storage card. Nintendo says the Switch 2 supports up to 2TB capacity microSD Express cards, but only the 256GB ones are currently doing the rounds at most retailers. Lexar said it would be the first company with 1TB cards, but the single listing I've found so far pegs it at a hefty $200 – and went almost instantly out of stock. A terabyte would've been a luxury on the OG Switch, but when you're dealing with beefier games that require regular updates, that's looking like it'll become the standard for Switch 2, as with PlayStation and Xbox. Don't go thinking the alternative is to just buy more physical games again, either. A lot of Switch 2 cartridges are glorified game-key cards, which don't contain any game assets and simply let you download a digital version of it to your console. With the exception of Cyberpunk 2077, virtually all third party publishers are selling their physical games as game-key cards, including launch titles Street Fighter 6, Hitman: World of Assassination, and Yakuza 0: Director's Cut. Even Bravely Default, a remaster of a 3DS game, has no on-cartridge files. The cost-saving measure also forces the retail boxes to carry ugly disclaimers. PlayStation and Xbox gamers have long gotten used to physical games installing on their console's storage. But Nintendo's USP used to be that it was different to the other platform holders. Unfortunately, with Switch 2, it looks like you'll have to get used to taking your games in and out of rotation a lot more.
