If you're gearing up for the Nintendo Switch 2 or seeking a fast, future-proof memory card, the Lexar 512GB Play PRO MicroSD Express Card is a deal you shouldn't miss. Currently back in stock on Amazon, it's priced at $89.92, down from its usual $99.99.
This card stands out as one of the few MicroSD Express options available in larger capacities, and it's officially compatible with the upcoming Switch 2. This is crucial, as Nintendo has confirmed that its next-generation console will only support MicroSD Express for expandable storage, rendering all older cards from the original Switch incompatible, regardless of their remaining space.
Switch 2 Compatible### Lexar 512GB Play PRO microSDXC Express Card
4$99.99 save 10%$89.92 at AmazonThe shift to MicroSD Express is driven by speed. These cards utilize the same PCIe interface as the high-speed NVMe SSDs in modern gaming PCs. The Lexar Play PRO boasts read speeds up to 985MB/s—nearly ten times faster than the UHS-I cards used in the current Switch. This speed enhancement translates to quicker load times and prevents performance bottlenecks when accessing larger, more demanding games from the expansion card.
With a 512GB capacity, this Lexar card offers a perfect balance between storage and price. Considering some confirmed Switch 2 games exceed 20GB, the internal 256GB storage won't last long. While a 1TB Express card costs nearly $200, this 512GB option represents the current sweet spot—especially when available in stock. There's also a 256GB option available for $47.67 at Amazon.
Availability has been inconsistent, with many MicroSD Express cards selling out quickly after the Switch 2 reveal. If you plan to purchase the new console at launch, securing one of these cards now is advisable before stock runs out again. Speed is non-negotiable for the next generation of portable consoles, and currently, this Lexar deal offers the fastest and most cost-effective way to prepare.
Switch 2 Game Storage Sizes: ----------------------------Nintendo has disclosed some file sizes for Switch 2 games, revealing that some are surprisingly compact. The Japanese My Nintendo Store lists several Switch 2 games along with their sizes, suggesting that the 256GB internal storage is a significant upgrade.
The largest game size listed is Mario Kart World at 23.4 GB, which occupies about 10% of the Switch 2’s internal storage. Comparatively, Cyberpunk 2077 weighs in at 64 GB, taking up a substantial 25% of the console's storage.
- Mario Kart World: 23.4 GB
- Donkey Kong Bananza: 10 GB
- Nintendo Classics: GameCube app: 3.5 GB
- Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition ＋ Jamboree TV: 7.7 GB
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition ＋ Star Crossed World: 5.7 GB
Bookmark IGN's Switch 2 preorder guide to stay updated. We'll post links as soon as they become available. Follow IGN Deals on Twitter/X or Bluesky to get notified when a Nintendo Switch 2 console, game, or accessory preorder listing goes live.
