The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →You can free up Nintendo Switch storage without erasing game progress: archive or delete downloaded software. Nintendo stores save data in the console’s system memory, not on a microSD card, and says archiving or deleting software does not affect saves.
What you can remove without losing game progress
Archiving and deleting downloaded software remove the game’s software data from storage; they do not delete its save data. You may need to download the game again before playing it. Nintendo’s archiving instructions confirm that archiving does not affect save data.
| Action | What happens to storage | HOME Menu icon | Replay | Save data |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Archive Software | Removes downloaded software data from its storage location. | Remains. | Redownload the game by selecting its icon. | Unaffected. |
| Delete Software | Removes downloaded software data from its storage location. | Removed. | Redownload the game using the Nintendo Account that purchased it. | Unaffected. |
| Delete screenshots or videos | Removes the selected captures. | Not applicable. | Not applicable. | Game saves are separate, but Nintendo says deleted captures cannot be recovered. |
These options apply to downloaded software. Nintendo says save data is stored in system memory and cannot be saved or copied to a microSD card, even when you play using a physical game card. A microSD card can hold downloadable software data, updates, downloadable content and captures; it is not a save-data backup. See Nintendo’s Data Management FAQ.
Check which storage is running low
- Open System Settings > Data Management.
- Check the available space shown for system memory and, if inserted, the microSD card.
Nintendo describes the available-space information in its data-management instructions. Knowing which location is full helps you choose what to archive, delete or move.
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.
Archive a downloaded game and keep its icon
- Open System Settings > Data Management > Manage Software.
- Select the game you want to remove.
- Choose Archive Software and confirm.
Archiving removes the software data while leaving the game’s HOME Menu icon in place. Select that icon when you want to download the game again. Nintendo also offers Quick Archive in Data Management for archiving multiple titles.
Delete a downloaded game and its icon
- Open System Settings > Data Management > Manage Software.
- Select the game.
- Choose Delete Software and confirm.
The software and its HOME Menu icon are removed, but Nintendo says the save data remains unaffected. You can download the game again using the Nintendo Account that purchased it. Choose deletion if you also want to clear the icon; otherwise, archiving keeps it available on the HOME Menu. Nintendo’s redownload instructions explain how to obtain purchased content again.
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.
Remove or move screenshots and videos
- Open System Settings > Data Management > Manage Screenshots and Videos.
- Review the captures and choose whether to copy them between system memory and a microSD card or delete selected items.
- Before confirming deletion, check that you selected only captures you no longer want.
The available copy options depend on whether a microSD card is inserted. Nintendo warns that deleted screenshots and videos cannot be recovered. Follow its capture-management instructions for the available options.
Expand storage with a microSD card
A compatible microSD card can provide more room for downloadable software data and screenshots or videos. Nintendo says software data can be moved between system memory and a microSD card, but save data cannot be moved, and some update data also cannot be moved. After an update or other change, data may be stored somewhere different from the location previously selected. Check Nintendo’s Data Management FAQ for its current storage guidance. Nintendo says external USB hard drives are not currently supported for expanding Switch game storage.
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.
Be careful when restoring a cloud save
Cloud restoration is not a way to clear storage. Downloading a Save Data Cloud backup replaces the existing local save for that game, and Nintendo warns that overwritten data cannot be recovered. The cloud-save feature requires a Nintendo Switch Online membership. Before restoring, verify that the backup is the version you want to keep. Nintendo explains the consequences in its Save Data Cloud backup instructions.
Quick Recap
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.
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
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.
