Getting More Storage on Your Nintendo Switch
As the Nintendo Switch has become a household name, its storage capacity has been a concern for many gamers. The default 32GB internal storage of the Switch might not be enough to accommodate a large library of games, leaving players to resort to deleting or reorganizing their game collection. Worry not! In this article, we’ll explore ways to get more storage on your Nintendo Switch.
How do I get more storage on my Nintendo Switch?
1. Use microSD cards
The simplest way to expand your Switch’s storage is to use a microSD card. These cards come in various sizes, from 128GB to 1TB or more, offering significant storage upgrades. Insert a microSD card into your Switch’s microSD slot (located on the left side of the console) and your additional storage space will be instantly accessible.
Here’s a table comparing different microSD card options:
| Capacity | Speed (read) | Speed (write) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 128GB | Up to 95MB/s | Up to 50MB/s | £20-£30 |
| 256GB | Up to 95MB/s | Up to 50MB/s | £35-£45 |
| 512GB | Up to 120MB/s | Up to 80MB/s | £50-£60 |
| 1TB | Up to 170MB/s | Up to 100MB/s | £70-£80 |
MicroSD card considerations:
• Check your Switch’s microSD card compatibility to ensure it supports the highest data transfer speed.
• A slower card might still be functional but might not be recommended for 4K game performance or 60fps recording.
2. Use the cloud for online storage
Nintendo Switch’s cloud storage service is another option to expand your storage capabilities. By signing up for Nintendo Switch Online and enabling Save Data Cloud Backup, your game saves can be stored online. This allows you to free up local storage and easily access your saved progress across different Switch consoles.
*Cloud storage pros and cons:
- Pros:
- Cloud storage provides an automatic backup of your game saves.
- You can easily access your saves on different Switch consoles.
- Save data is stored for 1 year from the date of upload, in case you re-download it.
- Cons:
- Online storage is limited to a few game saves.
- Data usage may be slow in regions with poor internet connections.
3. Organize and optimize your Switch’s storage
Did you know that some games and files can take up significant storage space? Optimizing your Switch’s storage by deleting unwanted data or transferring files to an external microSD card can help free up space. Consider these storage-saving tips:
Unused data and files:
- Delete duplicate screenshots and recordings.
- Erase system backup data after a certain time (configurable in System Settings).
MicroSD card benefits:
- Transfers data between Switch and external devices (e.g., computer or USB stick).
- Stores multiple files simultaneously.
- Scales with the growth of your gaming library.
System Management
Manage your Switch’s storage wisely:
System Settings: Disable unnecessary system data logging, reduce system language size, or reset System Font to free up more space.
4. Buy external hard drives (optional)
If you need even more storage space, external hard drives are a viable option. USB-C hub drives offer additional ports, convenience, and greater storage capacity. Keep in mind:
- Compatibility issues may arise if your external drive doesn’t support USB-C.
- Performance might vary depending on drive speed and connection type.
- Back up regularly to ensure you don’t lose important data in the event of an external drive failure or theft.
Here’s a table comparing USB-C hub drives:
| Storage Capacity | Transfer Speed | Number of Ports | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1TB | USB 3.0 | 4-5 Ports | £60-£70 |
| 2TB | USB 3.0 | 4-5 Ports | £100-£110 |
| 4TB | USB-C (with adapter) | 5-6 Ports | £150-£170 |
By implementing these methods, you’ll be able to expand your Nintendo Switch’s storage capacity, optimize your storage, and get the most out of your gaming experience.
In conclusion, with the right storage solutions and effective management, you’ll be able to hold a large library of games, manage your saves, and keep your Nintendo Switch running smoothly.