My Switch storage is full! Best tips for clearing space for new games?

Is Your Nintendo Switch Storage Bursting at the Seams?

It’s a familiar scenario for many Nintendo Switch owners: you’ve just seen an exciting new game released, but when you go to download it, your console politely informs you that there’s no space left. With digital downloads becoming increasingly popular and many games having substantial file sizes, filling up your Switch’s internal 32GB (or 64GB for OLED models) storage can happen quicker than you think. But don’t fret! Clearing space is often simpler than it seems.

Understand Your Storage Usage

Before you start deleting things willy-nilly, it’s wise to understand what’s taking up the most space. Go to System Settings > Data Management. Here, you’ll see a breakdown of your console’s storage, including software, save data, and screenshots/videos. This overview will help you target the biggest culprits.

Archive vs. Delete: Knowing the Difference

This is crucial! When managing your software, the Switch gives you two main options: Archive Software and Delete Software. Here’s what they mean:

• Archive Software: This removes the game’s main data from your system but keeps its icon on your Home screen and, crucially, preserves all your save data. You can re-download the game at any time from the eShop or your user profile’s Redownload section. This is usually the best option for digital games you might want to play again.
• Delete Software: This removes the game’s data AND its icon from your Home screen. More importantly, it also deletes all associated save data unless you have Nintendo Switch Online’s Save Data Cloud Backup enabled for that game. Only use this if you are absolutely sure you never want to play that game again or don’t care about its progress.

For most situations, archiving is your best friend. It frees up significant space without risking your hard-earned progress.

Don’t Forget About Save Data (Carefully!)

While game data takes up the bulk of space, save data can accumulate, especially for games with many hours logged. Each game’s save data is typically small (MBs, not GBs), but they can add up. To manage save data, go to System Settings > Data Management > Delete Save Data. Proceed with extreme caution here! Deleting save data is irreversible, and even if you re-download a game, your progress will be gone unless you have a cloud backup. Only delete save data for games you are absolutely certain you will never play again.

The Ultimate Solution: Get a MicroSD Card

The most effective long-term solution for storage woes is to invest in a high-capacity microSD card. The Nintendo Switch supports microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards up to 2TB (though 512GB or 1TB cards are more common and practical). Once inserted, the Switch will automatically prioritize installing new games and updates to the microSD card. You can also move existing games from your console’s internal memory to the microSD card through System Settings > Data Management > Move Data Between System / microSD Card.

Managing Physical Cartridges vs. Digital Downloads

Remember that physical game cartridges still require some installation space for updates and patches, but the core game data remains on the cartridge, saving significant internal storage. Digital games, however, reside entirely on your system or microSD card. If you frequently buy digital titles, a microSD card is virtually essential.

Check for Screenshots and Video Captures

These tiny files can add up! The Switch allows you to capture screenshots and record short video clips. Over time, these can consume a surprising amount of space. You can review and delete them by going to the HOME Menu > Album. Consider regularly transferring important captures to a computer or uploading them to social media to free up space.

Re-downloading Digital Purchases

A major benefit of digital purchases is that once you own a game, you can delete it and re-download it as many times as you like. This means archiving is a truly safe way to free up space. Access your re-downloadable titles from the Nintendo eShop by selecting your user icon in the top-right corner, then navigating to “Redownload.”

Conclusion: Play More, Worry Less

Clearing space on your Nintendo Switch doesn’t have to be a headache. By understanding the difference between archiving and deleting, carefully managing save data, and especially by investing in a high-capacity microSD card, you can ensure there’s always room for the next great adventure. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll spend less time managing storage and more time gaming!