While most flagship lines have dropped the microSD slot entirely, mid-range and budget models from Samsung, Motorola, and Xiaomi still include it. For a fitness-focused reader, that extra card is a cheap way to store workout videos, offline music, and hundreds of GPS-tracked ride files without paying a premium for onboard memory.
The Current State of Expandable Storage
The practical way to add storage is to insert a microSD card into the phone’s slot. The phone’s official spec sheet is the only reliable authority on maximum capacity.
That capacity varies a lot by model. The card you choose must match what the phone supports — a 2TB card is useless in a phone capped at 1TB.
Flagship vs. Mid-Range: Where the Slots Went
Current flagship lines from Google Pixel and Samsung’s Galaxy S-series generally do not offer expandable storage. The feature now lives in the Galaxy A-series, most Motorola Moto G models, and rugged options like the Samsung Galaxy Xcover line.
This shift means buyers shopping at the top of the range must pay for the storage they need upfront. Shoppers willing to step down one tier get the flexibility of a card slot, often at a much lower entry price.
Phones With Expandable Storage Worth Knowing
These models cover the practical range of what’s available now, from budget picks to rugged options. The maximum capacity listed is what the manufacturer or reliable reviews confirm; always double-check the official spec sheet before buying a card.
| Phone Model | Max microSD Support | Price / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Moto G 2026 | Up to 1TB | |
| Moto G 5G (2026) | Up to 1TB | Dedicated microSD slot |
| Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) | Up to 2TB | |
| Samsung Galaxy A26 5G | Up to 2TB | 128GB or 256GB onboard |
| Samsung Galaxy A16 4G | Listed with card support | ~$150; budget entry point |
| Listed with card support | ~$550; rugged design | |
| Sony Xperia 1 VI | Up to 1.5TB |
The Galaxy A-series and Motorola’s Moto G line are the easy recommendations for most people. If you want to see tested picks ranked by value and performance, our roundup of the best Android phones with expandable storage breaks down the top choices.
Key Caveats Before You Buy
Not every phone with a tray supports a card. Some models share the microSD slot with the SIM tray, which means using a card can reduce dual-SIM flexibility. Check whether your model has a dedicated slot or a shared one.
Also, “card support” in a retailer listing is not the same as official confirmation. Verify the maximum capacity on the manufacturer’s spec sheet. A 2TB card is a waste of money if the phone’s documentation caps out at 1TB.
One more note: expandable storage is an Android feature. Apple’s iPhones have never offered a microSD slot, so this decision only applies if you’re shopping Android.