The Evolution of Storage: Why MicroSD Express is the Future of Expansion
The recent Nintendo Switch 2 presentation sent shockwaves through the gaming community, and one of the most significant changes was the requirement for MicroSD Express cards to augment the device’s internal storage. But what’s behind this shift, and why can’t we just use our trusty old microSD cards? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of storage standards, exploring the reasons behind the move to MicroSD Express and what it means for gamers.
The Speed of Progress
The original Switch used UHS-I microSD cards, which have a maximum data transfer speed of 104MB/s. While this was sufficient for most consumer applications, newer and faster versions of the standard – UHS-II, UHS-III, and SD Express – have failed to achieve critical mass. The SD Association itself states that 90MB/s is good enough to record an 8K video stream at up to 120 frames per second. For most users, this level of speed is more than sufficient.
However, the Switch 2’s additional power opens the door to more complex games that could lag even more noticeably, especially if they’re ported from consoles that expect more than 50 times the storage bandwidth. This is where SD Express comes in, offering a significant boost in speed and performance.
The Power of SD Express
SD Express cards are connected to the same PCI Express/NVMe interface that internal SSDs use in modern PCs and game consoles, theoretically giving your SD card access to the same bandwidth as internal storage. While the actual speed varies based on the PCI Express version and the number of lanes available, microSD Express can deliver anywhere between 985MB/s and 3940MB/s of theoretical bandwidth.
The SanDisk microSD Express card, one of the few available at retail, lists its top speeds as 880MB/s for reads and 650MB/s for writes. While this may not be as fast as internal storage, it’s still several times faster than the average UHS-I microSD card.
The Cost of Progress
One of the most significant drawbacks of microSD Express is its cost. A quality 256GB microSD Express card will set you back around $60, compared to a pittance of $20 for a quality 256GB UHS-I microSD card. This is not only more expensive than a regular cheap SD card but also more expensive than actual internal SSDs. The cheaper name-brand 1TB internal SSDs can give you four times as much space for around the same price.
The Verdict
While the technical reasons behind the move to microSD Express are justifiable, the extra cost does rankle. The Switch 2’s relatively generous 256GB of internal storage should help you avoid the need for an SD card, and it could be all you ever need if you manage your storage space carefully. However, for those who need more storage, microSD Express is the future of expansion.
Actionable Insights
- If you’re upgrading to the Switch 2, consider investing in a microSD Express card for faster storage expansion.
- If you’re on a budget, stick with a quality UHS-I microSD card, which is still a great option for most users.
- Keep an eye on prices, as they should drop over time and more options become available.
Summary
The evolution of storage is a complex and ongoing process. The move to microSD Express is a significant step forward, offering faster speeds and performance. While the cost is a drawback, it’s a necessary step to keep pace with the demands of modern gaming. Whether you’re a gamer or a tech enthusiast, understanding the world of storage standards is essential for making informed decisions about your devices and accessories.