According to Tom's Hardware, the SanDisk 512GB GamePlay microSD Express card is currently selling for $98 at Walmart, well below its typical price of more than $120. The outlet calls it one of the lowest prices seen for this card in recent months, making it a notable exception to the broader DRAM and NAND memory shortage that has pushed storage prices upward.
The card is officially licensed for the Nintendo Switch 2 and relies on a PCIe interface with the NVMe protocol. Tom's Hardware lists read speeds up to 880 MB/s, write speeds up to 650 MB/s, and sustained writes of 220 MB/s. That makes it significantly faster than standard microSD cards, and importantly, the Switch 2 requires microSD Express cards for storing and playing games, so older cards will not suffice.
SanDisk also claims the card is built to handle harsh conditions, including water, temperature swings, humidity, drops, shocks, magnets, X-rays, and general wear. It includes a feature called ThermAdapt, which uses a specially designed enclosure and controller to dynamically manage heat and prevent overheating.
The source suggests this deal is a worthwhile upgrade for Switch 2 owners who buy digital games and run low on internal storage. At 512GB, the card offers room for additional titles, updates, and downloadable content, reducing the need to delete games frequently. Tom's Hardware frames the $98 price as a solid opportunity for anyone waiting to expand console storage without spending considerably more.