What To Know
- Upgrading to a microSD card is a great way to expand your storage capacity and store more games, apps, and other content.
- The Ultra cards have read speeds of up to 100MB/s and write speeds of up to 90MB/s, while the Extreme cards boast read speeds of up to 160MB/s and write speeds of up to 90MB/s.
- SanDisk offers a 5-year limited warranty on its Ultra microSD cards and a 10-year limited warranty on its Extreme microSD cards.
The Nintendo Switch has become a beloved gaming console, but its limited internal storage can be a frustration. Upgrading to a microSD card is a great way to expand your storage capacity and store more games, apps, and other content. When it comes to microSD cards for the Nintendo Switch, two brands stand out: Samsung and SanDisk. In this blog post, we will compare and contrast these two top brands to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Speed and Performance
When it comes to microSD cards, speed is crucial for fast loading times and smooth gameplay. Both Samsung and SanDisk offer high-speed microSD cards that meet the Nintendo Switch‘s requirements.
Samsung: Samsung’s EVO Select and EVO Plus microSD cards offer read speeds of up to 130MB/s and write speeds of up to 60MB/s. These cards are ideal for casual gamers who want to load games quickly and enjoy a lag-free gaming experience.
SanDisk: SanDisk’s Ultra and Extreme microSD cards offer even faster speeds. The Ultra cards have read speeds of up to 100MB/s and write speeds of up to 90MB/s, while the Extreme cards boast read speeds of up to 160MB/s and write speeds of up to 90MB/s. These cards are perfect for demanding gamers who want the best possible performance and lightning-fast load times.
Storage Capacity
The Nintendo Switch supports microSD cards with capacities ranging from 64GB to 1TB. Both Samsung and SanDisk offer a wide range of capacities to suit your needs.
Samsung: Samsung offers microSD cards with capacities of 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB.
SanDisk: SanDisk offers microSD cards with capacities of 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.
Durability
MicroSD cards can be subjected to wear and tear, so durability is an important factor to consider. Both Samsung and SanDisk offer microSD cards with high durability ratings.
Samsung: Samsung’s EVO Select and EVO Plus microSD cards have a durability rating of IPX7, which means they can withstand water immersion for up to 30 minutes.
SanDisk: SanDisk’s Ultra and Extreme microSD cards have a durability rating of IPX5, which means they can withstand water jets from any direction.
Warranty
Both Samsung and SanDisk offer limited warranties on their microSD cards.
Samsung: Samsung offers a 10-year limited warranty on its EVO Select and EVO Plus microSD cards.
SanDisk: SanDisk offers a 5-year limited warranty on its Ultra microSD cards and a 10-year limited warranty on its Extreme microSD cards.
Price
The price of a microSD card can vary depending on its capacity, speed, and durability. Generally speaking, Samsung and SanDisk microSD cards are priced similarly.
Which Brand is Right for You?
The best brand for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Samsung: Samsung’s microSD cards are a good choice for casual gamers who want a reliable and affordable option.
SanDisk: SanDisk’s microSD cards are a better choice for demanding gamers who want the best possible performance and durability.
The Bottom Line
Samsung and SanDisk are both reputable brands that offer high-quality microSD cards for the Nintendo Switch. When choosing between the two, consider your speed, storage capacity, durability, warranty, and price requirements. By carefully weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision about which brand is right for you.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Which microSD card capacity is best for the Nintendo Switch?
The best capacity depends on your needs. If you only play a few games at a time, a 64GB or 128GB card should be sufficient. If you have a large library of games, you may want to consider a 256GB or 512GB card.
2. What speed rating do I need for a microSD card for the Nintendo Switch?
The Nintendo Switch supports microSD cards with a UHS-I speed rating. This means that the card should have a read speed of at least 60MB/s. For optimal performance, a card with a UHS-II speed rating is recommended.
3. Is it safe to use a microSD card with the Nintendo Switch?
Yes, it is safe to use a microSD card with the Nintendo Switch. The console is designed to support microSD cards, and using one will not damage the console or the card.
4. How do I format a microSD card for the Nintendo Switch?
To format a microSD card for the Nintendo Switch, insert the card into the console and go to the System Settings menu. Select “Data Management” and then “Format microSD Card.” Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the formatting process.
5. Can I use a microSD card from another device with the Nintendo Switch?
Yes, you can use a microSD card from another device with the Nintendo Switch, but you may need to reformat the card before using it. To reformat the card, insert it into the Nintendo Switch and go to the System Settings menu. Select “Data Management” and then “Format microSD Card.” Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the formatting process.
