The Nintendo Switch is the latest gaming console from Nintendo and offers a variety of gaming options. This article examines how many games can be stored on a 400GB microSD card for the Nintendo Switch. The article estimates that a 400GB card can hold up to 80 digital games, depending on the size of the game file. Additionally, it is noted that physical games can also be stored on the 400GB microSD card, though this will depend on the size of the game card. Finally, the article suggests that a 400GB card will likely be sufficient for most gamers.
Video Game Storage Solutions
Ever run out of space on your console and delete a game you wanted to keep? Storage is the silent pain of modern gaming. This page explains practical ways to store games, how much common options hold, and tips that actually save time and money.
First, know the types. Consoles use internal drives, game cartridges, microSD cards, and external hard drives or SSDs. Cartridges (or discs) let you play without installing large files, but digital downloads need space. For handhelds like the Nintendo Switch, a 400GB microSD card can store around 60–80 games depending on file sizes. If you mostly play indie titles and older games, expect more; big AAA titles shrink that number fast.
Pick the right card or drive
When buying a microSD, check capacity and speed. For consoles, a UHS-I card with V30 or better gives steady transfers. Look for A1 or A2 ratings for faster app performance on handhelds. For console docks and home systems, a cheap 1TB external HDD is great for mass storage; an SSD is worth the extra cash if you want faster load times and reliability.
Think about price per gigabyte. HDDs are cheapest, SSDs cost more but offer speed and durability. MicroSD cards vary by brand; pick one with good reviews and a warranty. Don’t fall for suspiciously cheap high-capacity cards—fake capacity is a real problem.
Manage space like a pro
Use these habits to avoid surprises: regularly delete demos and trial apps, move rarely played titles to external storage, and keep saves backed up in the cloud if your system offers it. Uninstall large games you’re not playing and redownload later when you want them again. Many consoles allow moving games between internal and external drives without reinstalling, so use that to balance load.
Be aware of updates and DLC. A game’s installed size can grow a lot after patches and extra content. Before buying a new big release, free up space or plug in an external drive. For portable gaming, keep a small active library on the device and an archive on a larger microSD or external drive.
Finally, check console limits and formatting rules. Some systems require specific file systems or only support certain card sizes. Format new drives on the console when prompted, and keep backups of saves off the device when possible. With a few smart choices—right card type, regular cleanup, and backups—you’ll spend less time juggling files and more time playing.
Want concrete numbers? Indie games often weigh 200MB–2GB. Mid-size titles like sports or racing sit around 5–20GB. Modern AAA games commonly range from 30GB up to 100GB or more with expansions. That means a 400GB microSD holds many indie titles but maybe only a handful of big releases. If you mix game types, plan for spare space for patches. Also label cards, keep receipts for warranties, and periodically test them. For long-term safety, copy saves to a PC or desktop backup—don’t rely on a single card. Play more, worry less.