Quick Answer
The best SD card for the Nintendo 3DS is a name brand Micro SD card that is Class 10 or UHS-I rated, with at least 16GB of storage. SanDisk, Samsung, and Kingston make quality and reliable Micro SD cards that will maximize performance on the 3DS. A 16GB or 32GB SD card provides ample storage for digital games and content.
SD Card Requirements for the 3DS
The Nintendo 3DS uses Micro SD cards for expanded storage space. It does not support the larger SD card sizes. The 3DS is compatible with Micro SD and Micro SDHC cards up to 32GB in capacity. Important factors to consider when choosing an SD card for the 3DS include:
- Micro SD form factor – The 3DS only accepts the smaller Micro SD cards and is not compatible with larger SD card sizes.
- Capacity – Get at least 16GB, with 32GB providing ample additional space for digital content and games.
- Speed Rating – A Class 10 or UHS-I rating guarantees fast data transfer speeds.
- Brand – Stick with major brands like SanDisk, Samsung, Kingston for reliability.
Using a Micro SD card that meets these criteria will ensure maximum performance and convenience when using downloadable content and digital games on the 3DS.
Micro SD Card Form Factor
The 3DS only has a microSD card slot, so you will need to use a Micro SD card, also sometimes called a MicroSDHC card. They are the smallest SD card format available.
Larger capacity SD cards like SDHC and SDXC cards will not physically fit into the 3DS card slot. Using a Micro SD adapter with a larger SD card may get it to fit, but the 3DS will not be able to recognize or use cards that are not in the Micro SD form factor.
Micro SD Card Capacity
A 16GB or 32GB Micro SD card is recommended for the 3DS. Here are the SD card capacity guidelines:
- 8GB – Minimum recommended if you plan to download any games or content.
- 16GB – The best balance of price and capacity for most users.
- 32GB – Provides ample additional space for lots of games and content.
- 64GB – Will work but provides limited benefit beyond a 32GB card.
An 8GB Micro SD card should be sufficient if you only plan to download a couple small games. Serious gamers who want to have access to many titles and not worry about running out of space will want to get the largest 32GB card. 16GB is the best value for most 3DS users looking for good capacity at a reasonable price.
Micro SD Card Speed Rating
To ensure optimal performance on the 3DS, choose a Micro SD card that is rated either Class 10 or UHS-I. These speed ratings indicate the card is designed for fast data transfer speeds.
A Class 10 card supports minimum sequential write speeds of 10MB/s. UHS-I cards can have speeds up to 104MB/s. These fast speeds will help minimize long load times when reading game data from the SD card.
Avoid using old, slower cards like Class 4 cards. They do not have fast enough data transfer speeds to keep up with the demands of 3DS games. This can result in very long load times.
Micro SD Card Brand
When choosing a Micro SD card for the 3DS, buy from an established brand. Look for Micro SD cards from SanDisk, Samsung, Kingston, or other major manufacturers.
Stick with the brand name cards and avoid no-name knockoffs. The lower quality cards may have slower speeds and less reliable performance. This can lead to game crashes, save data corruption, and other issues.
Top Micro SD Card Recommendations
Based on the criteria outlined above, here are some excellent Micro SD card choices to consider for your Nintendo 3DS:
SanDisk Ultra 16GB Micro SD Card
- 16GB capacity
- Class 10 rated for fast speeds up to 48MB/s
- Amazing performance at a great value
- Backed by SanDisk limited lifetime warranty
The SanDisk Ultra Micro SD card provides the best combination of price, performance, and reliability. With Class 10 speeds up to 48MB/s it will work flawlessly with 3DS games. SanDisk is a top brand and this card comes highly recommended.
Samsung EVO Select 32GB Micro SD Card
- 32GB capacity
- UHS-I speeds up to 100MB/s
- Great for maximizing storage space
- Samsung makes quality, durable SD cards
For those who need lots of space for digital games and content, the Samsung EVO is a superb 32GB Micro SD card option. It has blazing fast UHS-I speeds up to 100MB/s and comes from one of the most trusted brands.
Sandisk Extreme Micro SD 32GB
- 32GB storage capacity
- Up to 100MB/s transfer speed
- A+ performance but at a premium price
- Shockproof, temperature proof, waterproof
The Sandisk Extreme Micro SD card is designed for hardcore users who demand the absolute fastest speeds. Real world tests show it truly is one of the fastest Micro SD cards available. Downside is it costs more than cards with similar specs.
How to Install a Micro SD Card in the 3DS
Installing the Micro SD card into your Nintendo 3DS is quick and simple:
- Turn off the 3DS and locate the SD card slot on the right side.
- Open the SD card slot cover.
- Gently insert the Micro SD card into the slot with the label facing up.
- Press the card in until it clicks into place.
- Close the SD card slot cover.
When you turn the 3DS back on it will now have the additional space provided by the SD card for downloads and saves.
If the 3DS does not recognize the new card, try removing and reinserting it to get a proper connection.
Formatting a New 3DS SD Card
When using a brand new SD card for the first time, it is recommended to format the card using the 3DS system settings:
- Go to System Settings
- Select “Format SD Card”
- Tap the card to format and confirm
This will format the SD card to the proper file system for optimal performance with the 3DS firmware.
Formatting the card will erase any existing data, so make sure to backup anything important first.
Transfer Data from 3DS to Micro SD Card
After inserting a new SD card into your 3DS, you can move existing game data and downloads from the 3DS internal memory to the SD card:
- Go to System Settings
- Select “Data Management”
- Choose “System Memory” then select “MicroSD Card”
- Select the data you want to move
- Tap “Move” to transfer data
This will migrate games, saves, and other data to the SD card for additional storage space. The process takes some time but is straightforward.
Changing or Upgrading SD Cards
If you later choose to upgrade to a larger capacity SD card, just copy the contents of the old card to the new card on a computer before swapping them in the 3DS.
You can use the “Data Management” option to transfer data between cards as well. Simply move data from the old SD card back to the 3DS system memory, insert the new SD card, and then transfer to the new card.
Tips for Using SD Cards in the 3DS
Here are some important tips to get the most out of using SD cards with Nintendo 3DS:
- Make sure you get an authentic SD card – Counterfeits may have performance issues.
- Watch for SD card deals and sales to save money.
- Occasionally check and defragment the SD card for optimal performance.
- Keep a backup of important SD card data on your computer.
- Don’t remove the card when the 3DS is on to avoid corruption.
- Store the SD card in its case when not in the 3DS.
Properly caring for and using your Micro SD card will keep the 3DS running smoothly for many years of gaming.
The Bottom Line
A Micro SD card is required to download games, apps, and other content to the Nintendo 3DS. Investing in a good quality, high capacity card from a top brand ensures the best performance.
Cards like the Sandisk Ultra 16GB and Samsung EVO 32GB are top recommendations that will work flawlessly with the 3DS while having room for lots of digital games and data.
Any cheap, low speed card or massive 200GB+ card is overkill and probably unnecessary for the 3DS. Just get a solid mid-range 16GB or 32GB SD card from a trusted brand and you will be all set with storage for years to come!