Feature: Crafting the Ultimate PC Handheld: Can 2TB Memory Cards Match SSDs in Terms of Gaming Performance?
The article discusses testing of high-capacity Micro SD cards as potential storage upgrades for PC handhelds like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally X. While compact 2230 NVMe SSDs offer the fastest upgrade paths with superior speeds, the article explores whether large-capacity SD cards can provide a more accessible and budget-friendly alternative. Digital Foundry is conducting hands-on testing of the Lexar 2TB Silver Plus, a mid-range Micro SD offering with specifications of up to 250MB/s read speeds and 180MB/s sequential write speeds. The practical testing on the ROG Ally X will focus on real-world gaming scenarios including game load times and file transfer speeds, going beyond synthetic benchmark measurements. SD cards offer a significant advantage over internal SSD upgrades due to their ease of installation and broader compatibility across a wider range of handheld devices. This exploration addresses an important consideration for PC handheld gaming enthusiasts seeking storage expansion options that balance performance, cost, and practicality in an increasingly competitive handheld gaming market.