Is Nintendo Switch 64GB Worth It? A Deep Dive into Storage Needs
The short answer: For most Nintendo Switch gamers, a 64GB internal storage option is a good starting point, but it’s likely not enough in the long run, especially if you plan to download a significant portion of your games. The internal storage will fill up quickly with a few larger titles and system updates. A microSD card is almost a necessity to truly maximize your Switch experience and avoid constant deleting and re-downloading of games. Whether the 64GB internal memory is worth it depends heavily on your gaming habits and budget.
Understanding Nintendo Switch Storage
Before diving into the specifics, let’s break down what we’re talking about. The original Nintendo Switch came with 32GB of internal storage, while the Nintendo Switch OLED model doubles that to 64GB. Sounds like a big difference, right? Well, not entirely. A portion of this storage is reserved for the system’s operating system, leaving you with less usable space than advertised.
Here’s the catch: Game sizes vary considerably. Indie titles might be just a few hundred megabytes, while AAA behemoths like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom can gobble up 13GB to 18GB, respectively. Even Mario Kart 8 Deluxe takes up nearly 7GB. If you’re primarily buying physical game cartridges, the internal storage is mostly used for save data, smaller downloads, and perhaps a digital indie game or two. But if you’re planning on building a digital library via the Nintendo eShop, 64GB will disappear faster than you think.
The Cartridge vs. Digital Dilemma
The first question you need to ask yourself is: How do I plan to buy my games? Physical cartridges store the game data directly, requiring minimal space for save files. Digital downloads, on the other hand, require you to download the entire game file and store it on your console. A physical game collection can alleviate the storage burden, but going digital offers convenience and immediate access.
Analyzing Your Gaming Style
Think about the types of games you enjoy. Are you drawn to expansive open-world adventures, or do you prefer shorter, replayable experiences? Also, how often do you play? A casual gamer who plays a handful of titles might be fine with 64GB, especially with a few physical cartridges. A dedicated gamer who wants access to a wide library of digital games will almost certainly need more storage.
The MicroSD Card Solution
The great news is that the Nintendo Switch supports microSD cards for expanding storage. You can add up to 2TB of extra space, offering immense potential for your digital library. The price of microSD cards has fallen considerably over the years, making them an affordable solution for storage woes.
Choosing the Right MicroSD Card
Not all microSD cards are created equal. For optimal performance, look for UHS-I (Ultra High Speed Phase I) cards with a speed class rating of U3. These cards offer faster read and write speeds, which translate to quicker game loading times and smoother performance. Brands like SanDisk, Samsung, and Lexar are generally considered reliable.
Factoring in Future Needs
Even if 64GB seems sufficient now, consider your future gaming plans. New, larger games are constantly being released, and you might find yourself wanting to try them. Investing in a larger microSD card upfront can save you the hassle of upgrading later.
So, Is 64GB Worth It? A Conclusion
Ultimately, the value of 64GB on a Nintendo Switch depends on your individual needs and gaming preferences. It’s a decent starting point, particularly for casual gamers who primarily buy physical games. However, if you plan on downloading a lot of games, especially larger titles, you’ll quickly find yourself needing more storage. A microSD card is almost essential for serious Switch gamers. Consider your gaming habits, budget, and future needs to make an informed decision. Even the Games Learning Society recommends considering how educational games might impact your storage needs. For more information on the educational impact of gaming, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about Nintendo Switch storage to help you make the best decision:
1. How many games can 64GB hold on a Nintendo Switch?
With 64GB, you can potentially store between 8-16 games, assuming an average game size of 4GB-8GB. Larger AAA titles can take up significantly more space, reducing the number of games you can store.
2. Is 64GB enough for a Nintendo Switch OLED?
64GB is a step up from the original Switch’s 32GB, but even on the OLED model, it might not be enough if you heavily rely on digital downloads. A microSD card is still highly recommended.
3. Can I upgrade the internal storage of my Nintendo Switch?
No, the internal storage of the Nintendo Switch cannot be upgraded. The only way to expand storage is by using a microSD card.
4. What size microSD card should I buy for my Nintendo Switch?
The best microSD card size depends on your budget and gaming habits. 128GB or 256GB is a good starting point for most gamers. If you plan on downloading a lot of large games, consider 512GB or even 1TB.
5. How do I transfer games from the internal storage to a microSD card?
You can transfer games from the internal storage to a microSD card by going to System Settings > Data Management > Move Data Between System / microSD Card.
6. What happens if my microSD card fills up?
If your microSD card fills up, you’ll need to either delete games or purchase a larger microSD card.
7. Will a faster microSD card improve game performance on my Nintendo Switch?
Yes, a faster microSD card (UHS-I with U3 speed class) can improve game loading times and potentially reduce stuttering in some games.
8. How much storage does The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom take up?
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom requires over 18GB of storage space.
9. Can I play games directly from the microSD card on my Nintendo Switch?
Yes, you can play games directly from the microSD card.
10. Does the Nintendo Switch Lite have 64GB of internal storage?
No, the Nintendo Switch Lite has the same 32GB of internal storage as the original Nintendo Switch model.
11. What is the difference between microSDHC and microSDXC cards?
microSDHC cards support up to 32GB of storage, while microSDXC cards support from 64GB up to 2TB. For the Nintendo Switch, you’ll want a microSDXC card if you need more than 32GB of storage.
12. Will using a larger microSD card drain my Nintendo Switch battery faster?
The impact on battery life is negligible. The benefits of having more storage outweigh any potential battery drain.
13. Can I use the same microSD card on multiple Nintendo Switch consoles?
No, a microSD card can only be linked to one Nintendo Switch console at a time. If you want to use it on another console, you’ll need to format it, which will erase all data.
14. Where can I buy microSD cards for my Nintendo Switch?
You can buy microSD cards at most electronics retailers, both online and in physical stores. Look for reputable brands and ensure the card meets the recommended specifications (UHS-I, U3 speed class).
15. How do I format a microSD card for use with my Nintendo Switch?
You can format a microSD card within the Nintendo Switch’s system settings. Go to System Settings > System > Formatting Options > Format microSD Card. Warning: This will erase all data on the card, so back up any important files first.