Speed Requirements
For Nintendo Switch, we recommend Class 10 U3 microSD cards (90MB/s+). For Steam Deck, look for A2 rated cards for faster load times.
Compatibility Check
Most modern microSD cards work perfectly. Larger capacities (512GB+) offer the best value for building a digital library.
Worth knowing before you buy: if you mainly stream through GeForce NOW or Xbox Cloud rather than installing games, you need far less storage — but you trade it for bandwidth, at roughly 4.5GB per hour at 720p and 9GB at 1080p. Our sister site breaks down what cloud gaming actually costs in data if you're weighing that against a card.
WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB NVMe SSD
Price
£138.50
Value
£0.069/GB
WD_BLACK SN7100 1TB NVMe SSD
Price
£151.48
Value
£0.151/GB
Lexar Express Play Pro microSD
Price
£188.75
Value
£0.189/GB
Price
£41.00
Value
£0.320/GB
Integral 32GB microSD Card Premium
Price
£12.95
Value
£0.405/GB
Handheld Device Storage Guide
Nintendo Switch Storage
- Format: microSD, microSDHC, or microSDXC
- Recommended Size: 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB
- Speed: Class 10 U3 (at least 90MB/s read speed)
- Compatibility: Most modern microSD cards work perfectly
- Installation: Insert into the slot on the back of the console
Steam Deck Storage
- Form Factor: microSD cards (UHS-II) for best performance
- Recommended Size: 256GB or 512GB for optimal gaming
- Speed: UHS-II recommended for faster load times
- Popular Models: ScanDisk Extreme, Kingston Canvas React Plus
- Note: Check the Steam Deck community for tested models
Best Value Tips
microSD cards offer excellent value for handheld gaming. A larger capacity card saves money per GB in the long run.
Popular Brands: ScanDisk, Samsung, Kingston, and Crucial.
💡 Tip: Watch for sales on 256GB and 512GB cards—they often offer the best value-per-GB.