In 2024, the Steam Deck continues to thrive as a fantastic handheld gaming device, allowing gamers to enjoy their favorite titles from the Steam library on the go. One of the key components that can enhance the gaming experience is the use of high-quality SD cards. In this article, we’ll explore the best SD cards for Steam Deck available on Amazon, ensuring you have all the information necessary to make an informed decision. We’ll cover ten top products and provide a buying guide so you can select the perfect storage solution for your gaming needs.
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card with Adapter - Up to 190MB/s, C10, U3, V30, 4K,... | $42.70 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 2 |
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GIGASTONE 1TB Gaming Plus Series Memory Card Speed Up to 150/120MB/s for Nintendo-Switch, Steam... | $84.98 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 3 |
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Silicon Power 1TB Superior Gaming Micro SDXC UHS-I (U3), V30 4K A2,High Speed MicroSD Card with... | $73.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 4 |
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Silicon Power 1TB Superior Micro SDXC UHS-I (U3), V30 4K A2,High Speed MicroSD Card, Compatible with... | $65.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 5 |
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Silicon Power 1TB SDXC Micro SD Card Gaming Memory Card, Compatible with Nintendo-Switch and Steam... | $69.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 6 |
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SAMSUNG EVO Select Micro SD-Memory-Card + Adapter, 512GB microSDXC 130MB/s Full HD & 4K UHD, UHS-I,... | $40.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 7 |
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SAMSUNG PRO Plus microSD Memory Card + Adapter, 512GB microSDXC, Up to 180 MB/s, Full HD & 4K UHD,... | $44.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 8 |
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SanDisk 1TB Extreme microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card with Adapter - Up to 160MB/s, C10, U3, V30, 4K, A2,... | $91.48 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 9 |
![SanDisk 512GB Ultra microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card with Adapter - Up to 150MB/s, C10, U1, Full HD, A1, MicroSD Card - SDSQUAC-512G-GN6MA [New Version]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41RLkJSMIqL.jpg)
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SanDisk 512GB Ultra microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card with Adapter - Up to 150MB/s, C10, U1, Full HD, A1,... | $38.94 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 10 |
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PNY 512GB XLR8 Gaming microSDXC Memory Card - 100MB/s, UHS-I, 4K UHD, Full HD, U3, V30, A2 - micro... | $39.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Contents
- Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best SD Cards for Steam Deck
- Storage Capacity
- Speed Class
- Durability
- Brand Reputation
- Price
- Top 10 Best SD Cards for Steam Deck in 2024
- 1. SanDisk Extreme Pro 512GB microSDXC
- Description
- Key Features
- 2. Samsung EVO Select 256GB microSDXC
- Description
- Key Features
- 3. Lexar Play 1TB microSDXC
- Description
- Key Features
- 4. Kingston Canvas Go! Plus 256GB microSDXC
- Description
- Key Features
- 5. PNY Elite-X 128GB microSDXC
- Description
- Key Features
- 6. SanDisk Ultra 400GB microSDXC
- Description
- Key Features
- 7. Samsung PRO Endurance 128GB microSDXC
- Description
- Key Features
- 8. WD_BLACK P50 Game Drive 1TB Portable SSD
- Description
- Key Features
- 9. Transcend High-Speed 128GB microSDXC
- Description
- Key Features
- 10. Adata Premier Pro 512GB microSDXC
- Description
- Key Features
- Conclusion
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best SD Cards for Steam Deck
Before diving into the product reviews, let’s briefly discuss what to consider before purchasing an SD card for your Steam Deck.
Storage Capacity
Choosing the right storage capacity is vital. The Steam Deck supports microSD cards ranging from 64GB to 1TB. If you plan to store multiple large games, you might want to consider larger capacities, such as 256GB or 512GB.
Speed Class
Speed classes determine how fast data can be written and read from the card. For gaming, it’s recommended to choose cards with at least UHS-I (Ultra High-Speed) ratings, specifically U3, to ensure smooth gameplay and quick loading times.
Durability
Look for cards that are shockproof, temperature-proof, water-proof, and X-ray proof. This is especially important for handheld devices that may experience more wear and tear than traditional gaming setups.
Brand Reputation
Purchasing from reputable brands can guarantee reliability. Brands like SanDisk, Samsung, and Lexar are known for their quality SD cards.
Price
Price is always a consideration; while lower-priced cards might appeal, they may not offer the same performance and durability. Compare costs with specifications to find a balance that suits your budget.
Top 10 Best SD Cards for Steam Deck in 2024
1. SanDisk Extreme Pro 512GB microSDXC
Description
The SanDisk Extreme Pro 512GB microSDXC card is perfect for users looking for high performance. With read speeds up to 170MB/s and write speeds of up to 90MB/s, it is designed to handle 4K video recording and high-resolution images. This SD card is both reliable and durable, making it a top choice for the Steam Deck.
Key Features
- Capacity: 512GB
- Read Speed: Up to 170MB/s
- Write Speed: Up to 90MB/s
- UHS Speed Class: U3
- Application Performance Class: A2
The card is also designed for extreme conditions, being temperature-proof, waterproof, and shock-proof.
- Read Speed: SanDisk 512GB Extreme PRO microSD UHS-I Card features SanDisk QuickFlow Technology that optimizes performance for timesaving media offloads with quick read speeds up to 200MB/s
- Write Speeds of up to 140MB/s: Capture fast-action photos or shoot 4K UHD video with write speeds of up to 140MB/s. The SanDisk Extreme Pro microSDXC UHS-I Card lets you shoot more and faster
- Load Apps Faster with A2: Get faster app performance for an outstanding smartphone experience thanks to the SanDisk Extreme Pro microSD card’s A2 Specification
- Durable Design: This card is shockproof, temperature-proof, waterproof, and X-ray-proof, so you can enjoy your adventures without worrying about the durability of your memory card
- Ideal For: This card is ideal for recording outdoor adventures, weekend trips, or sporting events without skipping frames
2. Samsung EVO Select 256GB microSDXC
Description
Another solid option is the Samsung EVO Select 256GB microSDXC card. It offers fast read speeds of up to 100MB/s and write speeds of 90MB/s, making it suitable for gaming and data-heavy applications. Its impressive performance, paired with a competitive price, makes it one of the **best SD cards for Steam Deck** users.
Key Features
- Capacity: 256GB
- Read Speed: Up to 100MB/s
- Write Speed: Up to 90MB/s
- UHS Speed Class: U3
- Application Performance Class: A2
This card is also designed to withstand extreme conditions, aiding in its durability.
- ALL THE SPACE YOU NEED: Store tons of media on your phone, load games or download more apps on your tablet at top-notch speed, making transfers seamless and reliable
- FAST AND SMOOTH: With superfast U3, class 10 rated transfer speeds of up to 130MB/s¹,²and UHS-I Interface³ big apps load and run smoothly, while 4K video remains sharp with A2, V30, and USH-I Interface
- EXPAND AND STORE BIG: Find your perfect fit from 64GB, 128GB, 256GB and 512GB; Select the best capacity for all your memories. Speed class: U3
- YOU'RE FULLY PROTECTED: EVO Select Plus provides reliable storage and takes on life’s adventures with water⁴, temperature⁵, X-ray⁶, ⁷magnet, drop⁸, and wears⁹ out protection; Backed by a 10-year limited warranty; Proofs are for the microSD card and do not include the adaptor
- FLASH MEMORY CARD: Performance and reliability you can count on from the flash memory brand; All firmware and components are produced in-house
3. Lexar Play 1TB microSDXC
Description
If you’re looking for massive storage, the Lexar Play 1TB microSDXC card is one of the **best SD cards for Steam Deck** players. With read speeds of up to 150MB/s, it’s designed specifically for gaming, high-performance applications, and Full HD video recording.
Key Features
- Capacity: 1TB
- Read Speed: Up to 150MB/s
- Write Speed: Up to 90MB/s
- UHS Speed Class: U3
- Application Performance Class: A2
The Lexar Play features a shock-resistant design and is temperature-proof, so it can handle various gaming conditions.
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, Legion Go, other portable gaming devices, smartphones and tablets
- Faster transfer speeds for quick loading time with up to 160MB/s read
- Improved write speeds of up to 100MB/s for quicker downloads
- Quickly capture, play back and transfer Full-HD and 4K video
- Store more videos, movies, games, music, and your favorite content with large capacity up to 1TB
4. Kingston Canvas Go! Plus 256GB microSDXC
Description
The Kingston Canvas Go! Plus 256GB is another outstanding choice for the Steam Deck due to its excellent read speeds of up to 170MB/s. It is designed for adventure photographers and gamers alike, making it a perfect fit for Steam Deck enthusiasts. Its price is also attractive, adding value for budget-conscious users.
Key Features
- Capacity: 256GB
- Read Speed: Up to 170MB/s
- Write Speed: Up to 70MB/s
- UHS Speed Class: U3
- Application Performance Class: A2
The card’s robust build allows it to withstand a range of environmental conditions, ensuring reliability.
- Superior speeds—Transfer and capture content faster in Full HD & 4K UHD with transfer speeds up to 170MB/s.
- Ideal for action cameras and drones—High-speeds with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) & Video Speed Class 30 (V30) ratings.
- Supports A2 app performance class—Expedite your workflow with faster application performance.
- Durable - For your peace of mind, the card has been extensively tested and proven to be water proof, temperature proof, shock and vibration proof and x-ray proof
- Note: It may be necessary to reformat cards to meet application requirements; Reformat memory cards in host device supported file system to ensure full compatibility; compatible in A2 cards supported and A1 cards supported devices
5. PNY Elite-X 128GB microSDXC
Description
The PNY Elite-X 128GB microSDXC card is an excellent starter card for those who need basic storage capacity. Offering read speeds of up to 100MB/s and write speeds of 90MB/s, it’s suitable for running games and apps efficiently. It’s a more affordable option that doesn’t compromise on quality.
Key Features
- Capacity: 128GB
- Read Speed: Up to 100MB/s
- Write Speed: Up to 90MB/s
- UHS Speed Class: U3
- Application Performance Class: A1
The card is rugged, making it suitable for various applications, including gaming and multimedia storage.
- Up to 100MB/s read speed
- Class 10, U3, V30 performance for recording of 4K Ultra HD videos at 4096x3072 pix as well as 60 and 120 FPS
- A1 (App 1) performance allows for apps to run faster from micro SD card, saving space on smartphone or tablet memory
- Ideal for smartphones, tablets, action cameras, 360o cameras, drones, dash cameras, camcorders, computers and laptops
- Store and transfer high resolution videos, photos, music, files, documents and more. Included SD adapter for compatibility with SDHC devices
6. SanDisk Ultra 400GB microSDXC
Description
The SanDisk Ultra 400GB microSDXC card is ideal for gamers who want ample storage without breaking the bank. With read speeds up to 100MB/s, it’s a great balance of performance and capacity, ensuring enjoyable gaming sessions with quick loading times.
Key Features
- Capacity: 400GB
- Read Speed: Up to 100MB/s
- Write Speed: Up to 10MB/s
- UHS Speed Class: U1
- Application Performance Class: A1
This card also comes with a lifetime warranty, providing added assurance of reliability.
- Save time with card offload speeds of up to 190MB/s powered by SanDisk QuickFlow Technology (Up to 190MB/s read speeds, engineered with proprietary technology to reach speeds beyond UHS-I 104MB/s, requires compatible devices capable of reaching such speeds. Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending upon host device interface, usage conditions and other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes. SanDisk QuickFlow Technology is only available for 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 400GB, 512GB, and 1TB capacities. 1GB=1,000,000,000 bytes and 1TB=1,000,000,000,000 bytes. Actual user storage less.)
- Pair with the SanDisk Professional PRO-READER SD and microSD to achieve maximum speeds (sold separately)
- Up to 130MB/s write speeds for fast shooting (Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending upon host device interface, usage conditions and other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.)
- 4K and 5K UHD-ready with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) (Compatible device required. Full HD (1920x1080), 4K UHD (3840 x 2160), and 5K UHD (5120 X 2880) support may vary based upon host device, file attributes and other factors. See HD page on SanDisk site. UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) designates a performance option designed to support real-time video recording with UHS-enabled host devices. Video Speed Class 30 (V30), sustained video capture rate of 30MB/s, designates a performance option designed to support real-time video recording with UHS-enabled host devices. See the SD Association’s official website.)
- Rated A2 for faster loading and in-app performance (A2 performance is 4000 read IOPS, 2000 write IOPS. Results may vary based on host device, app type and other factors)
7. Samsung PRO Endurance 128GB microSDXC
Description
The Samsung PRO Endurance 128GB microSDXC card is primarily designed for high-endurance applications like surveillance, but it’s also an excellent choice for the Steam Deck. With read speeds of 100MB/s and write speeds of up to 30MB/s, it’s durable enough for daily gaming use.
Key Features
- Capacity: 128GB
- Read Speed: Up to 100MB/s
- Write Speed: Up to 30MB/s
- UHS Speed Class: U3
- Application Performance Class: A2
This card has a rugged build that provides protection against extreme conditions, making it reliable for prolonged use.
- EXTREME ENDURANCE FOR MONITORING DEVICES: Capture your crucial moments in high-resolution, even in harsh conditions; Engineered to deliver long lasting performance, the Samsung PRO Endurance SSD is a perfect fit for CCTV, dash cams and body cams
- BUILT TO LAST UP TO 140K HOURS OF RECORDING: With capacities up to 256GB*, the PRO Endurance records and rewrites up to 140K hours (over 16 years)**; Plus, with a warranty up to 5 years***, you can rest assured that your data endures
- RECORD & PLAY IN FHD/4K: PRO Endurance simplifies large file transfers with read/write speeds up to 100/40MB/s;**** Plus, FHD & 4K resolution support ensures that crucial moments are recorded in high-res so every detail is documented when it matters most
- CRITICAL DATA, SAFEGUARDED: After rigorous testing, it stands up against magnets¹, X-rays², water³, drop⁴, wearout⁵ and stays cool under pressure with operating temperatures ranging from -25°C to 85°C⁶
- WORLD'S #1 FLASH MEMORY BRAND: Experience the performance and reliability from the world's #1 brand for flash memory since 2003;****** All firmware & components, including Samsung's world-renowned DRAM & NAND, are produced in-house
8. WD_BLACK P50 Game Drive 1TB Portable SSD
Description
Although it’s technically an SSD rather than an SD card, the WD_BLACK P50 Game Drive offers performance and speed that can significantly enhance your gaming experience on the Steam Deck. With read speeds of up to 2000MB/s, it’s a perfect choice for serious gamers looking for performance.
Key Features
- Capacity: 1TB
- Read Speed: Up to 2000MB/s
- Write Speeds: Varies
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
- Durability: Shock and vibration-resistant
This drive is designed to withstand shocks and pressure, making it suitable for portable gaming.
- Shaped by performance with SSD speeds up to 2000MB/s to decrease load screen times and get you into the game faster. | Based on read speed. 1 MB/s = 1 million bytes per second. Based on internal testing; performance may vary depending upon host device, usage conditions, drive capacity, and other factors
- Up to 4TB of additional storage for you to keep your favorite games and save new games
- Shock-resistant and portable form factor that provides fast access to your gaming library, anywhere you go. | 1GB = 1 billion bytes and 1TB = 1 trillion bytes. Actual user capacity may be less depending on operating environment
- High-performance SSD with SuperSpeed USB 20Gb/s interface for your PC or console
- English (Publication Language)
9. Transcend High-Speed 128GB microSDXC
Description
The Transcend High-Speed 128GB microSDXC card is perfect for budget-conscious users who don’t want to compromise on quality. Featuring read speeds of up to 100MB/s and write speeds of 60MB/s, it’s fast enough for your gaming applications.
Key Features
- Capacity: 128GB
- Read Speed: Up to 100MB/s
- Write Speed: Up to 60MB/s
- UHS Speed Class: U3
- Application Performance Class: A1
It’s also resilient against challenges like temperature variations, moisture, and shocks.
- Supports Ultra High Speed Class 1 specification (U1); Class 10 compliant
- Up to 45 MB/s
- Smooth Full HD video recording performance
- Ideal upgrade for smartphones, tablets, and digital cameras
- Compatible with devices with microSD, microSDHC and microSDXC slot
10. Adata Premier Pro 512GB microSDXC
Description
Lastly, the Adata Premier Pro 512GB microSDXC card is designed for high-performance applications. With read speeds of up to 100MB/s and write speeds of 85MB/s, it offers sufficient speed and capacity for gaming. It’s an excellent choice for gamers looking for reliable performance in their SD cards.
Key Features
- Capacity: 512GB
- Read Speed: Up to 100MB/s
- Write Speed: Up to 85MB/s
- UHS Speed Class: U3
- Application Performance Class: A2
This card is built for durability and extra storage comfort, providing excellent value to users.
- Roam freely with all-round protective design: Waterproof, Shockproof, X-ray proof, Magnet proof, Temperature resistant
- A2 qualified - for faster app performance
- UHS-I U3 meets V30 for faster video recording
- Large Capacity for Non-Stop Capture
- Lifetime Warranty
Conclusion
In 2024, choosing the best SD cards for Steam Deck is essential to augment your gaming experience. Whether you are looking for a high-capacity card or one with excellent speed, the products reviewed above provide options that cater to different preferences and budgets. By considering factors such as storage capacity, speed class, durability, brand reputation, and price, you can confidently select an SD card that best suits your gaming and storage needs. Take your gaming sessions to the next level with one of these stellar microSD cards!
Last update on 2024-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | votechriscarrillo.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.