Samsung launches speedy P9 Express microSD Express cards for Switch 2 at very competitive prices – 256GB and 512GB available for $54 and $99

Samsung introduced its P9 Express to compete with the best microSD Express cards available for the Nintendo Switch 2. They are priced at $54.99 for the 256 GB i model $99.99 for the 512 GB variant.

Samsung has already released a 256GB microSD Express card under the Super Mario Edition license to coincide with the launch of the Switch 2. However, the P9 Express marks the company’s formal entry into the microSD Express market.

The P9 Express offers sequential read speeds of up to 800MB/s, which is on par with some of the fastest microSD Express cards available today. Random read and write speeds are 65,000 IOPS and 52,000 IOPS, respectively. P9 Express is specially designed for devices that support microSD Express, such as gaming handhelds, action cameras, drones, laptops, smartphones and tablets. However, current usage is likely restricted to the Switch 2, the only device to jump on the microSD Express bandwagon.

MicroSD Express uses the PCIe 3.0 x1 interface, enabling significantly increased transfer efficiency. The figure on the pitch is approximately 4 times faster than standard UHS-1 microSD cards. Like all microSD cards, microSD Express cards are also backwards compatible with older devices. However, this compatibility limits speeds to UHS-1 or, in the case of P9 Express, to 90 MB/s for sequential reads and 2000 IOPS for random reads and writes.

Technical data of Samsung P9 Express

Samsung P9 Express cards are characterized by durability comparable to microSD Express cards from other manufacturers. They are resistant to temperature, magnets, x-rays, drops, water and wear, so the P9 Express should survive even the most stringent conditions. Although the P9 Express is highly resistant, it is recommended to handle devices such as the Switch 2 with care and avoid using them in adverse weather conditions.

The standout feature of the P9 Express is the employ of Samsung’s Dynamic Thermal Guard (DTG) technology, originally developed for Samsung SSDs. The manufacturer claims that this advanced technology intelligently monitors and regulates the card’s temperature, effectively preventing overheating and ensuring consistent performance during long gaming sessions.

Picture 1 With 2

P9 Express is compatible with Samsung Magician software, which is part of Samsung’s SSD product line. This software provides several key features, including verifying the authenticity of the P9 Express, monitoring card health and comparing its performance. Given the prevalence of bogus Samsung products on the market, the authenticity verification feature is especially valuable.

Samsung offers a restricted three-year warranty on the P9 Express. This warranty is longer than that provided by some competitors, who may only offer one year; however, it is not as extensive as the lifetime warranties offered by several other brands. P9 Express is available in 256 GB and 512 GB capacities and its price is: $54.99 AND $99.99appropriately. Amazon is currently promoting a $5 discount on the 512GB version, bringing the price down to $94.99 for a restricted time.

Follow Tom’s Hardware on Google NewsOr add us as your preferred sourceto get the latest news, analysis and reviews on your feeds.