A hardware hacker unsuccessfully attempts to operate an NVMe SSD on the Switch 2; notably, the adapter fails to recognize the NVMe SSD controller, although potential future compatibility may be realized through microSD Express emulation.
The SDEX2M2 project, an open-source MicroSD Express adapter designed specifically for the Nintendo Switch 2, has been making waves in the gaming community. This innovative solution promises to offer a more expansive storage option for gamers, but recent developments suggest that a potential design update could make the adapter bulkier and less convenient to use in handheld mode.
The SDEX2M2 project's PCB features an M.2 connector and an R1 resistor, and it leverages the SD Express 7.1 standard, which utilizes a PCIe Gen 3x1 interface that supports the NVMe protocol. This design allows the SDEX2M2 project to take advantage of MicroSD Express' PCIe roots and integrated NVMe functionality, making it compatible with full-blown M.2 NVMe 2230 SSDs.
However, a recent test conducted by a YouTuber encountered an error code "2016-0641" while trying to access the microSD card with the SDEX2M2 project on their Switch 2. This issue highlights the challenge of integrating NVMe SSDs, which have their own controllers but are not designed around the SD Express 7.1 standard, into the Nintendo Switch 2's system.
In an effort to overcome this hurdle, the developers of the SDEX2M2 project are working on an updated design with an integrated FPGA to emulate a MicroSD Express controller. This FPGA add-on, if successful, could provide a proper alternative for MicroSD Express cards to expand the Switch 2's storage.
As of now, there is no official or community-confirmed update on the status of the FPGA integration for the Nintendo Switch 2. For the latest developments, checking specialized hardware hacking forums, developer channels, or the original project repository (if available) might provide more direct and timely information.
It's worth noting that while the physical hardware of the SDEX2M2 project works perfectly, sliding into the Switch 2 without issue and being detected by the console, the cost comparison between storage solutions is noteworthy. As of August 2025, 256GB MicroSD Express cards cost more than $50, while 1TB NVMe SSDs like the Corsair MP600 Mini can be found for less than $90.
For those interested in staying updated on the latest news, analysis, and reviews in the tech and gaming world, following Tom's Hardware on Google News is highly recommended. Better Gaming was able to produce multiple duplicate PCBs for the SDEX2M2 project through a third party, indicating a growing interest and potential for this open-source project. Keep an eye on the SDEX2M2 project as it continues to evolve and potentially revolutionize the way we expand our Nintendo Switch 2 storage.
[1] Unrelated Electronics Tutorials on Instagram [2] Human Presence Detection on Instagram [3] General Electronics Topics on Instagram (These links are provided for context but are not directly related to the SDEX2M2 project.)
The SDEX2M2 project, with its compatibility with full-blown M.2 NVMe 2230 SSDs, expands the storage options for gamers beyond smartphones and other gadgets. In response to an error encountered with NVMe SSDs, developers are working on an updated design with an integrated FPGA to emulate a MicroSD Express controller, aiming to establish a proper alternative for expanding the Switch 2's storage.
