Console storage guide: PS5, Xbox Series and Switch
Running out of space? How much storage each console really has, what drives you can add, and how to manage your games.
Modern games are huge, and a few big updates can fill a console fast. Here's how storage works on each console and what you can add, without buying the wrong thing.
PlayStation 5
- Internal: a chunk of the advertised size goes to the system software, so you get noticeably less usable space than the box says.
- Upgrade: PS5 consoles have an internal M.2 NVMe SSD expansion slot. Sony's requirements include PCIe Gen4 x4 and a heatsink (or a drive with one built in). Check Sony's official “How to add M.2 SSD storage” page for exact sizes and speed requirements before buying.
- USB drives: can store and play PS4 games, and store (not play) PS5 games. Moving a PS5 game back to internal is much faster than re-downloading.
Xbox Series X|S
- Expansion cards: official Storage Expansion Cards (e.g. Seagate, Western Digital) plug into the back and run games exactly like internal storage, including Quick Resume.
- USB drives: play Xbox One, 360 and original Xbox games directly. Series X|S-optimized games can be stored there but must be moved to internal or an expansion card to play.
- Tip: Settings → System → Storage devices shows what's taking space, and the “Manage games” screen lets you uninstall add-ons or language packs you don't need.
Nintendo Switch / Switch 2
- Original Switch / OLED / Lite: use a microSD / microSDXC card. Games and updates can live there. Saves stay on the console.
- Switch 2: requires microSD Express cards for games. Regular microSD cards can only be used to copy screenshots and videos. Look for the “EX” logo.
- Cartridge games still download big updates, so storage matters even if you buy physical.
Universal tips
- Your saves are separate from game data. Deleting a game usually keeps your saves (and cloud saves need PS Plus, Game Pass Core/Ultimate or Nintendo Switch Online).
- Uninstall games you finished and re-download later. Check our server status page before a big re-download night.
- Big day-one patches? Our calendar lists upcoming releases and seasons so you can clear space in advance.
Always confirm compatibility on the official PlayStation, Xbox or Nintendo support pages before buying storage. Requirements can change with new hardware revisions.