What Storage Does Nintendo Switch Use? A Comprehensive Guide
The Nintendo Switch utilizes a combination of internal storage and expandable microSD card storage. The base models of the Nintendo Switch come equipped with either 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, a portion of which is reserved for system software. To enhance their storage capacity, users can insert microSD, microSDHC, or microSDXC cards, with support extending up to a massive 2TB (although 2TB cards are currently not widely available). These cards allow for additional storage space for digital game downloads, software updates, and saved screenshots and videos. It’s important to note that game save data itself is always stored on the internal memory and cannot be moved to the SD card.
Understanding Nintendo Switch Storage Options
Internal Storage Limitations
The internal storage of a Nintendo Switch (whether it’s the original, Lite, or OLED model) is designed to be a foundation for the system, and can only hold a relatively small number of full digital game downloads. With a base size of either 32GB or 64GB, and a considerable portion of that taken up by the operating system, users quickly find themselves needing external storage. The internal memory primarily handles system functions, ensuring smooth operation but quickly becomes limiting for those who prefer digital game ownership.
External Storage with microSD Cards
The primary way to expand the Nintendo Switch storage is through the use of microSD cards. The console is compatible with various formats:
- microSD: Supports cards up to 2GB. While compatible, these are very small and not very useful for Nintendo Switch game storage.
- microSDHC: Supports cards from 4GB to 32GB. These offer a decent upgrade for some, but many modern digital games require a larger capacity to be stored.
- microSDXC: Supports cards greater than 32GB and up to 2TB. These are the recommended cards for substantial storage expansion on your Nintendo Switch, offering plenty of space to hold numerous games, DLC content, and other media.
The Nintendo Switch’s design includes a microSD card slot that is accessible by flipping up the kickstand on the back of the console. This allows users to easily insert a card and immediately increase their available storage space. The maximum supported capacity is 2TB, however, 1TB cards are currently the largest and most common for purchase at this time.
Key Considerations for microSD Cards
When choosing a microSD card for your Nintendo Switch, a few key factors will affect the user experience:
- Transfer Speed: Nintendo recommends using a UHS-I compatible card with a transfer speed of at least 60MB/s. While the console generally supports transfer speeds up to 95MB/s, exceeding that threshold will not produce a noticeable improvement in loading times.
- Capacity: The capacity you need depends largely on your gaming habits. If you mostly purchase physical games, a smaller card may suffice. However, for a collection of digital titles, consider a 256GB or 512GB card.
- Brand and Reliability: Reputable brands such as SanDisk and Samsung are generally preferred for their reliability and performance. The official Nintendo-licensed SanDisk cards have been specifically designed for the Switch system and often come with a faster write speed, optimizing game loading times.
- Endurance: High endurance microSD cards are designed for frequent read and write cycles, which can help extend their lifespan. These are particularly valuable for users who frequently transfer data.
Choosing the Right Size
The size of microSD card you choose should depend upon your gaming style and how you generally obtain games.
- Minimalists: For users who mostly buy physical cartridges, a 64GB or 128GB card will likely be adequate for game updates, save data, and a few small digital titles.
- Moderate Users: Those who buy a mixture of digital and physical games should consider a 256GB card as the sweet spot, allowing for a substantial collection without breaking the bank.
- Digital Gamers: Those who mainly download games digitally will benefit most from a 512GB or 1TB card, providing ample room for larger titles and ensuring you don’t need to delete games frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What type of SD card does the Nintendo Switch use?
The Nintendo Switch uses microSD cards. Specifically, it is compatible with microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC formats. Standard SD cards and miniSD cards are not compatible.
2. Can I put a 1TB SD card in my Switch?
Yes, the Nintendo Switch can accommodate up to a 2TB microSD card, however, the most commonly available is 1TB. This provides a significant expansion of storage space.
3. Is a 128GB microSD card enough for the Switch?
A 128GB card can be adequate for moderate use, but users with larger digital libraries will quickly find that it is too small. 256GB is often recommended as a good starting point for those with a mixture of physical and digital games, but 512GB or 1TB is better for those who prefer mostly digital purchases.
4. Will any microSD card work with the Switch?
While any microSD, microSDHC, or microSDXC card will physically fit, Nintendo recommends that the card be UHS-I compatible and have a transfer speed of at least 60MB/s. Transfer speeds higher than 95MB/s typically won’t provide a noticeably better performance.
5. How do I increase storage on my Switch?
You can easily increase the storage of your Nintendo Switch by purchasing a compatible microSD card and inserting it into the card slot, located behind the system’s kickstand.
6. Can I use my old SD card on my new Switch?
Yes, but when you move an SD card to a new Switch, the console requires you to format the card. This process will erase the game data, but you can keep your saved screenshots and videos. You’ll have to re-download all your games.
7. Does the Nintendo Switch store game save data on the SD card?
No, game save data is always stored on the console’s internal memory and cannot be moved to the microSD card. The microSD card is used to store the actual games.
8. How big is the average Switch game?
The average digital game on Nintendo Switch is around 10GB. Some large, AAA titles can take up over 15GB.
9. How many GB is Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is approximately 6.8GB, but it is highly recommended to buy the physical copy of the game, as the digital version cannot be recovered if you lose access to your Nintendo account.
10. How many GB is Zelda Breath of the Wild?
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild requires 13.4 GB of storage space when downloaded digitally.
11. How many GB is The Legend of Zelda Tears of the Kingdom?
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is a bit larger at 16.3GB.
12. Can I store games on the SD card?
Yes, downloaded games can be stored on the microSD card, allowing you to expand your library significantly beyond the built-in memory.
13. Does the SanDisk Ultra 1TB work with Switch?
Yes, the SanDisk Ultra 1TB microSD card is compatible with the Nintendo Switch and is a popular choice due to its high capacity and transfer speeds.
14. What should I choose: a 128GB or 256GB SD card?
For moderate use, a 256GB card is generally recommended, but if you are a serious digital downloader a 512GB or 1TB will be a better fit. The 256GB provides a balance of capacity and value.
15. What if my microSD card is not working?
If your microSD card is not working, make sure it is a supported type (microSD, microSDHC, or microSDXC) and is inserted correctly. Ensure the system software is updated to the latest version, and try formatting the card through the Nintendo Switch console. If the problem persists, consider trying a different microSD card.
By understanding the storage options available for the Nintendo Switch and the factors to consider when selecting a microSD card, you can ensure your console has ample space for your favorite games and media.