The Nintendo Switch is a popular gaming console that offers a unique combination of home console and portable gaming features. With its library of games and diverse gameplay options, the Nintendo Switch has become a favorite of gamers around the world. One of the key aspects of the Nintendo Switch that can impact your gaming experience is its storage capacity. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about Nintendo Switch storage, including how much storage is available, how to expand storage, and tips for managing storage effectively.
How Much Storage is Available on Nintendo Switch?
The Nintendo Switch comes with 32GB of internal storage, which may not seem like much, especially considering that some games can take up more than 10GB of space. However, the Switch also supports microSD cards, which can be used to expand storage.
It’s worth noting that some of the internal storage is reserved for the operating system and other system files, which means that the actual amount of storage available to users is less than 32GB. According to Nintendo, the actual usable storage space on the Nintendo Switch is approximately 25.9GB.
How to Expand Storage on Nintendo Switch
If you find that the 25.9GB of usable storage on your Nintendo Switch is not enough, there are a few ways to expand your storage capacity. The most common method is to use a microSD card.
To use a microSD card, you will need to purchase a compatible card and insert it into the microSD card slot located behind the kickstand on the back of the Nintendo Switch. The Switch supports microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards up to 2TB in size, although 2TB cards are not currently available.
It’s worth noting that while most games can be played directly from a microSD card, some games may require that they be installed on the internal storage of the Nintendo Switch. Additionally, save data for some games can only be stored on the internal storage, which means that even if you have a large microSD card, you may still need to manage your internal storage carefully.
Tips for Managing Nintendo Switch Storage
Here are some tips for managing storage on your Nintendo Switch:
- Use a MicroSD Card: As mentioned earlier, using a microSD card is the easiest way to expand your storage capacity on the Nintendo Switch. You can find microSD cards with capacities ranging from 16GB to 1TB, so there’s an option for every budget and storage need.
- Delete Unneeded Games and Data: If you’ve finished a game or don’t plan on playing it anymore, consider deleting it from your Nintendo Switch to free up space. You can also delete old screenshots and videos to free up additional space.
- Move Data to MicroSD Card: You can move games, screenshots, and other data from the internal storage of your Nintendo Switch to a microSD card to free up space. To do this, go to System Settings > Data Management > Manage Software, select the software you want to move, and choose “Move to microSD Card.”
- Archive Games: Archiving a game removes it from the internal storage of your Nintendo Switch but keeps your save data intact. To archive a game, go to System Settings > Data Management > Archive Software and select the game you want to archive.
- Use Cloud Saves: Some games on the Nintendo Switch support cloud saves, which means that your save data is stored on Nintendo’s servers instead of your Nintendo Switch. This can be a useful way to free up space on your internal storage and ensure that your save data is backed up in case something happens to your Nintendo Switch.
- Install Physical Games: If you prefer physical game cartridges, consider purchasing physical copies of games instead of digital downloads. This can help you save on storage space, as physical games don’t take up any space on the internal storage of your Nintendo Switch.
- Use a Docking Station: If you primarily play your Nintendo Switch in docked mode, consider investing in a docking station with a built-in storage bay for microSD cards. This can help you easily switch out microSD cards and ensure that you have enough storage for all of your games and data.
- Be Mindful of Game Sizes: When downloading games from the Nintendo eShop, be mindful of the size of the game. Some games can be more than 10GB in size, which can quickly eat up your storage space. If you have a slow internet connection or limited data plan, you may want to consider purchasing physical copies of games instead.
- Keep Your Nintendo Switch Up to Date: Nintendo occasionally releases updates for the Nintendo Switch that can help optimize storage and performance. Make sure to keep your Nintendo Switch up to date to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your console.
Conclusion
In conclusion, managing storage on your Nintendo Switch is an important part of ensuring the best possible gaming experience. While the Nintendo Switch does come with a limited amount of internal storage, there are a variety of ways to expand your storage capacity and manage your data effectively. By using a microSD card, deleting unneeded data, and being mindful of game sizes, you can ensure that you have enough storage space for all of your favorite games and data.