How Many Switch Games Can a 128GB SD Card Hold? A Comprehensive Guide
A 128GB SD card can typically hold around 15 to 20 Nintendo Switch games. However, this is a highly variable estimate, as the size of individual Switch games ranges dramatically from a few megabytes to over 30GB. Factors such as the game’s complexity, graphical fidelity, and included downloadable content (DLC) all contribute to its overall size.
Understanding Storage on the Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch comes with a limited amount of internal storage (32GB for the standard model, 64GB for the OLED model), a portion of which is reserved for the system’s operating system. This means that out of the box, you’ll have even less space available for storing games. For serious gamers, especially those planning to download a significant number of games digitally, a microSD card is essential.
Why Storage Matters
Consider a scenario where you want to download The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which requires approximately 18.2GB of storage space. With a standard Switch’s usable internal storage, you’d quickly realize you can’t hold many games. If you also want to enjoy Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (6.8GB) and a few smaller indie titles, your internal storage will fill up quickly. This is where a 128GB (or larger) microSD card becomes invaluable.
Factors Affecting Game Size
Several factors contribute to the overall size of a Nintendo Switch game:
- Game Complexity: Larger, more complex games like The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (31.5GB) and NBA 2K23 (55.4GB) require significantly more storage than simpler titles.
- Graphical Fidelity: Games with high-resolution textures, detailed character models, and advanced visual effects generally take up more space.
- Downloadable Content (DLC): DLC, such as expansion packs or additional characters, adds to the overall game size.
- Digital vs. Physical: While owning a physical copy of a game frees up storage space, it’s still worth noting that many physical games require installation files or updates that take up storage on your Switch.
Calculating How Many Games Fit
To estimate how many games a 128GB SD card can hold, you need to consider the average size of the games you plan to download.
- Scenario 1: Primarily Small Games (1-5GB): If you primarily download smaller indie titles or retro-style games, you could potentially fit 25-50 games on a 128GB card.
- Scenario 2: A Mix of Small and Medium-Sized Games (5-15GB): A mix of games like Super Mario Odyssey (5.7GB), Luigi’s Mansion 3 (6.3GB), and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (13.4GB) would allow you to store approximately 10-20 games.
- Scenario 3: Primarily Large Games (15GB+): If you primarily download AAA titles like Tears of the Kingdom (18.2GB), you might only be able to store 5-8 games on a 128GB card.
Keep in mind that the advertised storage capacity of an SD card isn’t always the actual usable storage. Formatting and system files take up a small portion of the space.
Making the Right Storage Choice
Deciding on the right storage capacity depends on your gaming habits. If you predominantly buy physical copies of games and only occasionally download smaller titles, a 64GB card might suffice. However, if you plan on downloading a significant number of digital games, especially larger ones, a 256GB or even a 512GB card might be a better investment.
Other Considerations
Beyond storage capacity, consider the speed of the microSD card. A faster card with a higher read/write speed will result in quicker loading times and smoother gameplay. Look for cards with an “A1” or “A2” rating, which indicates that they are optimized for app performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is 128GB enough for the Nintendo Switch?
For many casual gamers who primarily purchase physical games, 128GB is often sufficient. It allows for a decent mix of digital and physical games, plus storage for game updates and DLC. However, serious gamers who plan to download a lot of games digitally might find it limiting.
2. How many games does a 256GB SD card hold on a Switch?
A 256GB SD card can hold significantly more games than a 128GB card. Depending on the game sizes, you could realistically store between 25 and 40 games with a 256GB card.
3. Is 256GB overkill for the Switch?
No, 256GB is not overkill if you plan on downloading a lot of games digitally, particularly larger titles. It provides ample storage for a substantial library of games, ensuring you don’t have to constantly delete and redownload titles.
4. What is the largest game size on Nintendo Switch?
Currently, one of the largest games on the Nintendo Switch is NBA 2K23, which requires a whopping 55.4GB of storage space. Other large games include Mortal Kombat 11 and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt.
5. Can I use multiple microSD cards with my Switch?
While you can technically swap out microSD cards, it’s not recommended as a primary storage solution. Nintendo advises using a single, larger microSD card and copying data to it if you need more space. Swapping cards frequently can be cumbersome.
6. How do I move data between microSD cards on my Switch?
To move data, you’ll need a computer with an SD card reader. You can copy the contents of your smaller card to your computer and then transfer them to the larger card. Make sure to copy all files and folders, including hidden ones.
7. What happens if my microSD card fails?
If your microSD card fails, you could lose your downloaded games and save data. This is why it’s important to back up your save data regularly to the cloud, if you have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
8. Does game progress save to the game card or the Switch?
Save data is stored on the Switch’s internal memory, not on the game card itself. This applies to both physical and digital games. Cloud backups are available for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers for compatible games.
9. How much storage does Mario Kart 8 Deluxe take up?
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe requires approximately 6.8GB of storage space.
10. How much storage does Animal Crossing: New Horizons take up?
Animal Crossing: New Horizons requires approximately 6.2GB of storage space.
11. How much storage does Super Mario Odyssey take up?
Super Mario Odyssey requires approximately 5.7GB of storage space.
12. Does the Nintendo Switch OLED have more storage?
Yes, the Nintendo Switch OLED model has 64GB of internal storage, compared to the original Switch’s 32GB. However, a portion of this is still used by the system, so a microSD card is still recommended for extensive digital libraries.
13. What is the maximum size microSD card the Switch supports?
The Nintendo Switch supports microSD cards up to 2TB in size.
14. Will a faster microSD card improve game performance on the Switch?
Yes, a faster microSD card can improve loading times and potentially reduce stuttering in some games. Look for cards with high read/write speeds and an “A1” or “A2” rating.
15. Where can I learn more about the impact of video games on learning and society?
You can explore the work being done in this area at the Games Learning Society, which focuses on the intersection of games and education. You can visit their website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Conclusion
Choosing the right microSD card for your Nintendo Switch is crucial for enjoying your gaming experience to the fullest. A 128GB card is a solid choice for many, but consider your gaming habits and the types of games you play to determine if a larger capacity is necessary. Ultimately, understanding how game sizes affect storage capacity will help you make an informed decision and ensure you have ample space for all your favorite titles.