The Best MicroSD Cards of 2025: Storage and Speed for Every Need
Most microSD cards are fast enough for basic storage and file transfers, but some offer better value than others. Whether you need extra space for an older gaming handheld, the new Nintendo Switch 2, an action camera, drone, or Android tablet, we’ve tested nearly 20 top contenders to help you find the best option.
Best MicroSD Cards of 2025
For most users, the Lexar Professional Silver Plus is our top pick. It delivers strong sequential and random read/write speeds, often outperforming competitors in benchmarks. The Samsung Pro Plus is another excellent choice, offering similar performance at a slightly lower price. Both are UHS-I cards with V30, U3, and A2 ratings, making them ideal for gaming, media storage, and general use.
Best MicroSD Express Cards for the Nintendo Switch 2
If you own a Nintendo Switch 2, you’ll need a microSD Express card—the only type the console supports. These cards are significantly faster than traditional UHS-I options but come at a higher cost. The SanDisk microSD Express Card and Lexar Play Pro are among the fastest, though performance differences in actual gameplay are minimal. Loading times between the fastest and slowest Express cards rarely differ by more than a few seconds.
For Switch 2 owners, we recommend at least 256GB of storage due to larger game file sizes. Prices are still high, so waiting for potential discounts is wise. Currently, available models include:
SanDisk microSD Express Card: 128GB ($60), 256GB ($73), 512GB ($125)
Lexar Play Pro: 256GB ($60), 512GB ($120), 1TB ($220)
PNY microSD Express: 128GB ($47), 256GB ($61)
Samsung microSD Express: 256GB ($60)
GameStop Express: 256GB ($60), 512GB ($100), 1TB ($190)
Walmart Onn: 256GB ($36), 512GB ($66)
Other Notable MicroSD Cards
Samsung Pro Ultimate: A close competitor to the Lexar Silver Plus but usually more expensive.
Lexar Professional Gold: A UHS-II option for heavy-duty video recording, priced higher than UHS-I cards.
SanDisk Extreme: Matches the Samsung Pro Plus in some tests but often costs more.
SanDisk GamePlay: Similar to the Extreme but underperforms in benchmarks.
SanDisk Pokémon: Charges extra for themed designs without significant speed improvements.
SanDisk Extreme Pro: Comparable to Samsung Pro Ultimate but often overpriced.
PNY XLR8 Gaming: Affordable but slower sequential reads.
PNY Elite-X: Budget-friendly but not as fast as top picks.
What to Look for in a MicroSD Card
Capacity: Most users will find 128GB or 256GB sufficient, but 512GB or 1TB is better for extensive game libraries or high-res media. Prices for 128GB start around $15, while 1TB cards can cost $70-$100.
Speed Ratings: Look for V30, U3, and A2 ratings for the best balance of performance and price. These ensure minimum sequential write speeds of 30 MB/s and strong random read/write speeds.
UHS Bus Speeds: UHS-I cards (max 104 MB/s) are the most common and affordable. UHS-II cards (max 312 MB/s) are faster but pricier and require compatible devices.
MicroSD Express: The fastest option, but only necessary for the Nintendo Switch 2 right now. These cards offer speeds up to 880 MB/s but are expensive and lack widespread support.
Avoiding Counterfeits: Buy from reputable retailers like Best Buy, B&H Photo, or Amazon (sold and shipped by Amazon). Check packaging for irregularities and run benchmarks to verify speeds.
How We Test MicroSD Cards
We tested cards using CrystalDiskMark, BlackMagic Disk Speed Test, and real-world file transfers. Each card was benchmarked for sequential and random read/write speeds, and we timed game load times on devices like the Steam Deck. We used Kingston and proprietary card readers to ensure accurate results.
Recent Updates
August 2025: Expanded advice on microSD Express cards for the Switch 2.
May 2025: Updated top pick to Lexar Professional Silver Plus and added notes on new Express cards.
February 2025: Added SanDisk microSD Express as a premium option.
November 2024: Verified recommendations for accuracy.
August 2024: Noted new 1TB models for top picks.
For most users, a high-quality UHS-I card like the Lexar Professional Silver Plus or Samsung Pro Plus will provide the best value. Switch 2 owners, however, will need to invest in a microSD Express card for optimal performance.
