Best Micro SD Memory Cards of 2026

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 11, 2026

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Micro SD memory cards are a popular and convenient way to expand the storage capacity of devices such as smartphones, tablets, and digital cameras. These tiny cards can hold large amounts of data, ranging from a few gigabytes to several hundred. They are also easily removable and transferable, allowing users to quickly and easily share files with others. With their small size and high storage capacity, micro SD memory cards are an essential accessory for anyone who needs to store or transfer large amounts of data on the go.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Basics 128GB microSDXC Memory Card Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Basics 128GB microSDXC Memory Card
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Samsung P9 Express 256GB microSD Card Cover #TOP 2
Samsung P9 Express 256GB microSD Card
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SanDisk Extreme 512GB microSDXC Card Cover #TOP 3
SanDisk Extreme 512GB microSDXC Card
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Micro SD Memory Cards

#TOP 1

Amazon Basics 128GB microSDXC Memory Card

Amazon Basics
LSMICRO128GU3
Black
128 GB
Amazon Basics 128GB microSDXC Memory Card Cover
Amazon Basics Micro SDXC Memory Card with Full Size Adapter, A2, U3, Read Speed up to 100 MB/s, 128 GB, Black

This Amazon Basics microSDXC Memory Card is a high-quality storage solution perfect for high-resolution photos, Full HD/4K videos and any other data type. It is ultra-fast with a read speed of up to 100mb/s and it is compatible with a wide range of devices such as smartphones, tablets, cameras, laptops, and more. The memory card is reliable with shockproof, waterproof, temperature-proof, X-Ray-proof, and magnetic-proof features. It also comes with an SD adapter.

What We Like
Excellent value for price
Fast read/write speeds
Wide device compatibility
Reliable performance
Includes SD adapter
What We Don't Like
Write speed not fastest
#TOP 2

Samsung P9 Express 256GB microSD Card

MB-MK256T/AM
white
256GB
Samsung P9 Express 256GB microSD Card Cover
Samsung P9 Express microSD Express Card, 256GB microSDXC Memory Card, Up to 800 MB/s, for Nintendo-Switch ™ 2, (MB MK256T/AM)

The Samsung P9 Express Card offers lightning-fast transfer speeds, letting you load games up to four times quicker than standard cards. This means less waiting and more playing. It also features Dynamic Thermal Guard technology, which helps prevent the card from overheating during intense gaming sessions, so your gameplay stays smooth. With up to 512GB of storage, you can keep all your games and downloadable content in one place, eliminating the need to delete anything. Plus, the card is built tough with six types of protection and comes with a 3-year warranty, ensuring your game data stays safe no matter where you play.

What We Like
Blazing fast transfer speeds
Large storage capacity
Reliable performance
Compatible with Switch 2
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Long-term durability unproven
#TOP 3

SanDisk Extreme 512GB microSDXC Card

SDSQXAV-512G-GN6MA
Gold/Red
512GB
SanDisk Extreme 512GB microSDXC Card Cover
SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card with Adapter - Up to 190MB/s, C10, U3, V30, 4K, 5K, A2, Micro SD Card - SDSQXAV-512G-GN6MA

The SanDisk Extreme 512GB is a great choice if you want fast and reliable storage. It works well with the Nintendo Switch (but not the newer Switch 2), making it perfect for gamers who need extra space. Thanks to SanDisk QuickFlow Technology, you can transfer files quickly with speeds up to 190MB/s, saving you time when moving large videos or photos. If you pair it with a SanDisk PRO-READER (sold separately), you’ll get the fastest transfer speeds possible. Plus, its write speed of up to 130MB/s lets you capture photos and videos quickly without delay, ideal for fast shooting sessions.

What We Like
Fast read/write speeds
Reliable performance
Handles 4K/5K video
Large storage capacity
Durable and portable
What We Don't Like
Slightly higher price
Tricky installation in some devices
#TOP 4

SanDisk 256GB Ultra microSDXC Memory Card

SDSQUAC-256G-GN6MA
Black
256GB
SanDisk 256GB Ultra microSDXC Memory Card Cover
SanDisk 256GB Ultra microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card with Adapter - Up to 150MB/s, C10, U1, Full HD, A1, MicroSD Card - SDSQUAC-256G-GN6MA [New Version]

The SanDisk 256GB Ultra microSDXC Memory Card is perfect for storing Full HD videos, photos, and applications on Android tablets and smartphones. With up to 256GB of storage, you can store more hours of Full HD video. The transfer speeds of up to 150MB/s allow you to move up to 1000 photos per minute, while A1-rated performance helps you to load apps faster. It also has Class 10 for Full HD video recording and playback.

What We Like
Ample storage capacity
Fast transfer speeds
Reliable performance
Versatile device compatibility
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Initial formatting takes time
Not for heavy 4K video recording
#TOP 5

Amazon Basics 256GB microSDXC Card with Adapter

Amazon Basics
LSMICRO256GU3-H
Black
256GB
Amazon Basics 256GB microSDXC Card with Adapter Cover
Amazon Basics 256GB microSDXC Card with Adapter, Read Speed Up to 200MB/s, 1-Pack

The Amazon Basics 256GB microSDXC is a versatile storage solution compatible with many devices, including smartphones, cameras, and laptops, giving you the flexibility to keep your data handy across gadgets. It’s perfect for capturing high-quality Full HD, 4K, or even 5K videos and storing detailed photos, ensuring you don’t miss any moments. With fast read speeds up to 200MB/s and write speeds up to 150MB/s, you can quickly transfer files and enjoy smooth performance on your devices. Plus, it’s built tough—resistant to shocks, water, extreme temperatures, X-rays, and magnets—so your data stays safe no matter where you take it.

What We Like
Fast read and write speeds
Wide device compatibility
Large storage capacity options
Affordable price
Easy installation and use
What We Don't Like
Occasional durability concerns
Slight usable capacity discrepancy

SanDisk 256GB microSDXC-Card for Nintendo Switch

SDSQXAO-256G-GNCZN
Yellow
256GB
SanDisk 256GB microSDXC-Card for Nintendo Switch Cover
SanDisk 256GB microSDXC-Card, Licensed for Nintendo-Switch - SDSQXAO-256G-GNCZN

The SanDisk 256GB microSDXC-Card is officially licensed for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite systems, offering incredible read speeds up to 100MB/s and write speeds up to 90MB/s. It instantly adds up to 256GB of storage, giving you the ability to store all your downloaded games, screenshots, and video captures in one place. Spend less time waiting and more time playing with this microSD card.

What We Like
Easy installation process
Reliable performance
Large storage capacity
Compatible with Nintendo Switch
Attractive themed design
What We Don't Like
Slightly less usable storage than advertised
Higher price than generic brands
#TOP 7

SanDisk 256GB High Endurance Video microSDXC Card

SDSQQNR-256G-GN6IA
Black
256 GB
SanDisk 256GB High Endurance Video microSDXC Card Cover
SanDisk 256GB High Endurance Video microSDXC Card with Adapter for Dash Cam and Home Monitoring systems - C10, U3, V30, 4K UHD, Micro SD Card - SDSQQNR-256G-GN6IA

The SanDisk High Endurance microSDXC Card is the ideal choice for dash cams and home monitoring systems. With its high endurance design, you can record for up to 20,000 hours without any worries. This microSD card is built to withstand harsh conditions, making it temperature-proof, waterproof, shockproof, and x-ray-proof. With capacities up to 256GB, you can save more videos and record and save more Full HD or 4K videos. Whether you're capturing important moments on the road or monitoring your home, this SanDisk microSDXC card provides the reliability and performance you need.

What We Like
Continuous recording support
High reliability
Fast data transfer
Large storage capacity options
Heat resistance
What We Don't Like
Few makers offer very large sizes
#TOP 8

SanDisk 512GB microSD Express Card

SDSQXFN-512G-GN4NN
Black
512GB
SanDisk 512GB microSD Express Card Cover
SanDisk 512GB microSD Express Card - Works with Nintendo-Switch 2, Up to 880MB/s Read, Up to 650MB/s Write, 220MB/s Sustained Write, U3, C10 - SDSQXFN-512G-GN4N

The SanDisk microSD Express 512GB card is designed for next-gen gaming, especially compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2, making it easy for you to expand your game storage without hassle. It’s built to keep up with future devices that use the latest PCIe-NVMe interface, ensuring your card stays useful as technology evolves. You’ll enjoy blazing-fast transfer speeds—up to 4.4 times faster than previous SanDisk microSD cards—so you can quickly move large files like HD movies or 4K videos. Plus, this card is extremely durable, able to withstand water, drops, shocks, and even X-rays, giving you peace of mind no matter where you use it.

What We Like
Fast write and read speeds
Seamless Switch 2 compatibility
Large storage capacity
Reliable performance
Easy installation
What We Don't Like
Slightly slower than internal memory
High price for largest sizes
#TOP 9

Samsung PRO Plus microSD Memory Card

MB-MD512SA/AM
512GB
Samsung PRO Plus microSD Memory Card Cover
Samsung PRO Plus microSD Memory Card + Adapter, 512GB microSDXC, Up to 180 MB/s, Full HD & 4K UHD, UHS I, C10, U3, V30, A2, for Android Smartphones, Tablets, GoPRO, and DJI Drone (MB MD512SA/AM)

The Samsung PRO Plus microSD Memory Card is your new go-to card for capturing seamless 4K videos on your compatible phone or drone. With fast read/write speeds and high storage capacity, this memory card allows you to shoot more photos faster and transfer them with ease. The UHS-I, V30 rated speed and A2 rating provide more storage for apps and games, making it perfect for gaming devices and tablets. With huge capacities of up to 512GB, you'll have plenty of space for long takes and high-resolution photos. Plus, this memory card is fully protected against water, temperature, X-ray, magnet, drop, and wearout, giving you reliable storage for all your adventures. Backed by a 10-year limited warranty, you can trust the world's #1 flash memory brand for performance and reliability.

What We Like
Excellent speed and performance
High reliability and stability
Great value for price
Handles 4K video smoothly
Large storage capacity
#TOP 10

Lexar 1TB Play PRO microSD Express Card

LMSXPS0001T-BNNNU
Black
Lexar 1TB Play PRO microSD Express Card Cover
Lexar 1TB Play PRO microSD Express Card, UHS-I, C10, U3, V30, Full HD, 4K, Up to 900/600 MB/s Memory Card, Nintendo-Switch 2, ASUS ROG Ally, Steam Deck (LMSXPS0001T-BNNNU)

The Lexar Play PRO microSD is designed to boost your gaming on devices like the Nintendo Switch 2. It offers speeds up to four times faster than regular microSD cards, so your games load quicker and run smoother. With read speeds reaching 900MB/s, you’ll spend less time waiting and more time playing. Plus, the fast write speed of up to 600MB/s means your downloads and game saves happen in a flash, especially when paired with the right card reader. This card uses the latest technology to give your handheld gaming a serious upgrade, making sure you have plenty of space and speed for your favorite titles.

What We Like
Fast load times
Large 1TB capacity
Easy installation & setup
High reliability
Excellent gaming performance
What We Don't Like
High price point
Limited availability
Best Micro SD Memory Cards Feature Image

Choose the Best Micro SD Memory Cards for Your Needs

Be it your phone, camera, or computer; a micro SD card is invaluable; it stores photos, apps, and almost everything. A Micro SD card is nothing but a removable storage device that operates on flash technology.

But to get the best of its value, you must select the right SD Card based on your needs.

Here is a compact guide to help you select the best micro SD card.

Essential factors to consider before buying

Size of the SD Card

The first thing that you must consider while buying the micro SD card is the size requirement of your device, i.e., the size of the micro SD slot of your device, as that will determine your purchase.

The capacity of the SD Card

Depending upon your requirements, you can choose your micro SD card; the more storage capacity better it is.

If you already have high internal space, you won’t need an SD card with increased storage; if you are a photographer, you must always take an SD card with the highest capacity.

SDHC and SDXC

SDHC stands for “ High Capacity SD Memory Card,” and SDXC stands for “SD Extended Capacity Memory Card.”

SDHC is fit for devices with an extended memory capacity of up to 32GB. While, if your device supports external memory storage between 32GB to 2TB, you will need SDXC.

Speed Class of the SD Card

Not many people are aware that SD Cards come with a speed class. Each SD Card has a speed class, four-speed classes, 2,4,6 and 10. 2 indicate the lowest speed, and ten are the fastest.

Advantages and disadvantages of Micro SD Card

Advantages and Disadvantages are like the two sides of a single coin; with benefits come disadvantages. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of using an SD Card.

Advantages

  • You get increased storage
  • Buying an SD card with greater storage capacity will be less expensive than buying a new phone with high storage
  • The use of an SD card can save up your phone storage.
  • SD cards are portable and can be stored even in small boxes.
  • SD cards are non-volatile memory and can keep all the data stable.
  • SD card is accessible on multiple devices.

Disadvantages

  • The apps stored in your SD card will disappear after removing them.
  • The card can break easily; also, the metal part is sensitive and can get damaged.
  • A poor quality SD card can hamper your phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which category of SD Cards can be formatted?

The formatting quality of an SD card depends on its capacity types. FAT32 more than 2GB and up to 32GB are formattable.

If an SD Card is reusable, why do we need more than one SD card?

It is not mandatory to use more than one SD Card. However, 2-3 SD cards can increase your flexibility.

How can I transfer data from my SD card to my computer?

You can transfer your SD Card data into your computer in multiple ways. You can either connect your device using a USB cable to your computer or take out the SD Card, and with the use of an SD Card Reader, you can transfer your data to your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What's the difference between an SD card and a microSD card?

The main difference between an SD card and a microSD card is the form factor. MicroSD cards are smaller in size and can be used with an SD adaptor to fit into devices that only support SD cards. This makes microSD cards more versatile.

2. Are all microSD cards the same?

No, not all microSD cards are the same. There are differences between microSD and microSDHC cards. MicroSD cards have a maximum capacity of 2GB, while microSDHC cards can hold up to 32GB. Additionally, microSD cards work in any microSD slot, while microSDHC cards require devices that support either SDHC or SDXC.

3. How many years do microSD cards last?

MicroSD cards are designed for data storage and can last for 10 years or more. However, it is recommended for frequent users, especially professional photographers, to replace their SD cards every few years and have a collection of high-quality backup SD cards.

4. Can you put a microSD card in a regular SD slot?

Yes, you can use a microSD card in a regular SD slot by using an adapter. The adapter allows the smaller microSD card to fit into the larger SD slot. However, it's important to note that microSD cards have a limited capacity of up to 1TB, while SD cards can have much higher capacities.

5. How do I know if my SD card is compatible?

To determine if your SD card is compatible with a device, look for the SD logo and other symbols on the device or refer to the device's user manual or manufacturer information. These indicators will confirm if the device supports the SD standard.

6. How do I know if my micro SD card is bad?

There are a few signs that indicate a bad microSD card. These include devices like digital cameras failing to recognize the card, card readers and desktops not listing the card as a readable folder, files appearing distorted or displaying errors when opened, or not all files on the card being visible.

7. Are SD cards safe for long term storage?

SD cards are not recommended for long-term storage. They are made with inexpensive components and are prone to breaking. The charge in the cells can also leak over time, making them unsuitable for reliable long-term storage of important data.

Editor's Notes

During our micro sd memory card research, we found 26 micro sd memory card products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,790,555 customer reviews through our big data system to write the micro sd memory cards list. We found that most customers choose micro sd memory cards with an average price of $29.86.

The micro sd memory cards are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of micro sd memory cards, including Samsung, Sandisk, Lexar. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.

Micro SD Memory Cards Comparison Table

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#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Amazon Basics Samsung Sandisk Sandisk Amazon Basics Sandisk Sandisk Sandisk Samsung Lexar
Flash Memory Type Micro SDXC Micro SDXC Micro SDXC Micro SDXC MicroSDX Micro SD Micro SDXC Micro SDXC Micro SD Micro SD
Memory Storage Capacity 128 GB 256 GB 512 GB 256 GB 256 GB 256 GB 256 GB 512 GB 512 GB 1 TB
Compatible Devices Camera, Drone, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet Camera, Gaming Console, Nintendo Switch 2, Personal Computer, Steam Deck Action Cameras, Digital Cameras, Drones, Smartphone, Tablet SanDisk MobileMate USB 3.0 microSD Card Reader smartphones, tablets, cameras, GoPro/action cameras, laptops, desktop computers, DSLRs, drones, gaming console Nintendo Switch Smartphone Camera, Gaming Console, Personal Computer Camera, Drone, Gaming Console, Smartphone, Tablet Camera, Gaming Console, Nintendo Switch 1, Nintendo Switch 2, Steam Deck
Model Name LSMICRO128GU3 P9 Express SanDisk Extreme microSD UHS-I Card with Adapter - microSD Ultra MicroSDXC UHS-I Card for Nintendo Switch SDSQQNR-256G HIGH Endurance Micro SDXC Class 10 UHS-I U3 V30 SDSQXFN-512G-GN4NN New Pro Plus MicroSD PLAY PRO
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
Where to Buy