The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →The safest way to keep progress in a long SNES game depends on where you are playing: use the game’s own save on an original cartridge, back up its SRAM file when using Snes9x, or save a temporary suspend point to a slot on the Super NES Classic Edition. The key is to treat in-game saves and snapshots as separate progress records: an older snapshot can replace newer save data.
First, identify where you are playing
SNES progress is stored differently on original cartridges, in an emulator, and on the Super NES Classic Edition. Use the matching routine below; a fix for one platform may not apply to another.
| Platform | Where progress is stored | Main risk |
|---|---|---|
| Original SNES cartridge, if the game supports saving | Battery-backed SRAM on the cartridge. | A failing battery or cartridge fault can put the save at risk. |
| Snes9x | The game’s save is stored in an SRAM file, typically .srm. A save state is a separate snapshot of broader game state. |
Loading an older state can restore the SRAM contents captured with that state, replacing newer in-game save data. |
| Super NES Classic Edition | In-game save data and suspend points are separate. A suspend point is first temporary, then can be saved to a slot. | A temporary suspend point is deleted if the system is shut off or another game is started before saving it. Resuming a suspend point may overwrite the in-game save. |
Original SNES cartridge: save in the game and verify it
Use the save points provided by the game. After the save operation finishes, restart the game later and check that the file is still present. A save that disappears after a restart may indicate a cartridge battery or board problem rather than a problem with your saving routine.
On cartridges that support saving, progress may be held in battery-backed SRAM. A failing battery can put that data at risk. Before attempting repair, preserve any remaining progress if possible and identify the cartridge board: battery type and fit are not guaranteed to be identical across cartridges.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
When battery replacement may be appropriate
Battery replacement is a repair, not a regular step for saving a game. iFixit’s SNES cartridge repair guide says the usual battery is a CR2032 and describes it as soldered in; the actual cartridge should be checked before buying parts. Opening the shell uses a 3.8 mm Gamebit screwdriver bit, and replacing a soldered battery requires soldering. If you are not equipped to do that work, consider a qualified repair service rather than risking the cartridge or its remaining save data.
Snes9x: back up the game save separately from save states
In Snes9x, the game’s intended save mechanism writes SRAM, typically to a .srm file. Make a separate copy of that file as a backup. A save state serves a different purpose: it snapshots more of the running game than the game’s own save system does.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
The Snes9x documentation describes freezing or snapshotting as saving the whole game state at a point beyond the game designers’ intended save system. That convenience also creates a risk: loading an older state can restore the SRAM contents that existed when the state was made, replacing newer in-game save data.
- Save using the game’s own save option or save point, then allow it to finish.
- Make a separate backup copy of the game’s
.srmfile. - Use a save state when useful, but do not treat it as a backup of the current in-game save.
- After loading a state, check the game’s save data before continuing. If it is older than expected, avoid saving over a newer copy until you have checked your separate backup.
Exact menus, file locations, and backup behavior can differ among Snes9x versions and ports. The documentation here concerns Snes9x specifically; it does not establish identical behavior for every emulator.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Super NES Classic Edition: save the temporary suspend point to a slot
While playing, slide the Reset switch up to create a temporary suspend point. To keep it, move the point to a saved slot and press Y. Nintendo says the console can hold up to four saved suspend points per game.
- Slide Reset up while the game is running to create a temporary suspend point.
- Move that point to a saved slot.
- Press Y to save it.
Do this before turning off the system or starting another game. Nintendo warns that an unsaved temporary suspend point is deleted in either case. The exact controls and behavior described here apply to the Super NES Classic Edition.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Nintendo Support: How to Create, Save, and Delete Suspend Points
Choose carefully before resuming
Nintendo separately warns that resuming from a suspend point may overwrite the game’s in-game save data, which cannot be recovered. Think of the in-game save and suspend point as two records that may represent different moments. Before resuming, consider which one contains the progress you want to keep; do not assume loading a suspend point leaves the in-game save untouched.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Nintendo Support: How to Resume a Game From a Suspend Point
Quick Recap
A practical routine for a long play session
- Use the game’s intended save. It is the main record of progress on a cartridge and the file to preserve in Snes9x.
- Keep an independent copy where possible. On Snes9x, back up the
.srmfile separately from state files. - Before loading older progress, check what it can replace. This matters when loading an older Snes9x state or resuming a Classic Edition suspend point.
- Confirm that a save persisted. On original hardware, check the in-game file after a later restart; on an emulator, check the in-game save after loading a state.
- Only consider cartridge repair when the cartridge save is failing. Confirm the board and battery before buying parts or opening the shell.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
