For weeks, I’ve been putting the Sandisk SDSQXAO-256G-GN3ZN/GNCZN 256GB MicroSDXC UHS-I card through its paces. Officially licensed for the Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite, this card promises blistering speeds and reliable performance. But does it deliver on its promises? Let’s dive into my in-depth review.

This microSD card boasts impressive specifications, including a read speed of 100MB/s and a write speed of 90MB/s. In the box, you’ll find the card itself and a small instruction manual. Its compact size and vibrant yellow color make it easily identifiable amidst other accessories.

I tested the card with various games, including large titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Loading times were noticeably faster compared to using the Switch’s internal storage. Game performance was smooth, and I didn’t experience any lag or stuttering. I also used the card to record and transfer high-resolution video footage, again experiencing swift transfer speeds to my PC. File transfers between the card and my computer were also consistently quick. While the advertised speeds weren’t always exactly met, they were consistently within a reasonable margin.

Pros:

• Fast read and write speeds significantly improve loading times and game performance.
• Officially licensed for Nintendo Switch, ensuring compatibility.
• Ample 256GB storage capacity allows for numerous game downloads.
• Reliable performance during testing.

Cons:

• The advertised speeds weren’t always perfectly reached; real-world speeds were slightly lower.
• Price might be slightly higher than some competing cards with similar specs.

Overall, the Sandisk SDSQXAO-256G-GN3ZN/GNCZN 256GB microSDXC UHS-I card is a solid choice for Nintendo Switch owners. While the read and write speeds aren’t always perfectly aligned with the advertised figures, they’re still exceptionally fast, leading to a noticeable improvement in game loading times and overall performance. The official Nintendo Switch licensing provides peace of mind regarding compatibility. If you’re looking to expand your Switch’s storage capacity without compromising speed, this card is a strong recommendation.