Recommended Free Tools
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
There is no confirmed download or install size for Squadron 42 in the available RSI information: RSI said the game was still in development and unavailable as of April 16, 2026. Do not treat Star Citizen’s 150+ GB requirement as the size of Squadron 42. If you need space now, you can remove an unused Star Citizen environment through the RSI Launcher or use RSI’s full-deletion process when you intend to remove the installation.
How much storage does Squadron 42 need?
RSI has not published a current install size for Squadron 42 in the information available here. RSI’s “Get Started: Checklist,” updated April 16, 2026, said the game was still in development and not available to download. That is a dated availability statement, not a promise about a future release; check RSI’s release information for a newer status before making plans based on whether the game can be downloaded.
The key distinction is between Squadron 42, the single-player game, and Star Citizen. RSI’s “Star Citizen Minimum System Requirements” page, updated September 23, 2026, lists 150+ GB of SSD storage for both minimum and recommended specifications. That figure applies to Star Citizen, not to Squadron 42, and it does not establish the latter’s eventual download size.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallRSI’s launcher troubleshooting guidance also mentions 100 GB for the launcher and Star Citizen. That older advice conflicts with the newer, explicitly dated system-requirements page. For planning around Star Citizen, use the newer 150+ GB SSD requirement rather than the 100 GB troubleshooting figure. RSI says requirements may change while Star Citizen remains in development.
#1 Best Overall
- MEET THE NEXT GEN: Consider this a cheat code; Our Samsung 990 PRO Gen4 SSD helps you reach near max performance with lightning-fast speeds; Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a tech guru, you’ll get power efficiency built for the final boss
- REACH THE NEXT LEVEL: Gen4 steps up with faster transfer speeds and high-performance bandwidth; With a more than 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO, it’s here for heavy computing and faster loading
- THE FASTEST SSD FROM THE WORLD'S FLASH MEMORY BRAND: The speed you need for any occasion; With read and write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s you’ll reach near max performance of PCIe 4.0 powering through for any use
- PLAY WITHOUT LIMITS: Give yourself some space with storage capacities from 1TB to 4TB; Sync all your saves and reign supreme in gaming, video editing, data analysis and more
- IT’S A POWER MOVE: Save the power for your performance; Get power efficiency all while experiencing up to 50% improved performance per watt over the 980 PRO; It makes every move more effective with less consumption
What to plan for if you are installing Star Citizen
Use the 150+ GB figure as the published storage requirement for Star Citizen, not as a guarantee that an installation will fit into exactly that much free space. RSI does not state a separate amount of temporary space needed for updates in the cited information. Leave additional room if you can, because low available space can interfere with installation, updates, or verification.
The launcher does not check whether the selected drive has enough free capacity for the work it is about to perform, according to RSI’s troubleshooting guidance. Confirm available space on the intended drive before starting an install or update; do not assume the launcher will warn you early enough to prevent a failed or interrupted operation.
Choose the least destructive way to free space
Start by deciding what you actually want to remove. The RSI Launcher can uninstall a specific game environment, such as LIVE or PTU. Full deletion removes more than an individual environment and is presented by RSI as part of reinstall and troubleshooting procedures. Clearing the launcher cache is a separate troubleshooting action; RSI does not describe it as a reliable way to reclaim substantial game-installation space.
- Remove one unused environment: use the launcher’s environment selection and gear menu to uninstall that channel.
- Remove the installation completely: follow RSI’s full-deletion procedure if you are actually removing the game or preparing for a reinstall, and preserve custom files first.
- Refresh launcher files: use Clear Launcher Cache when troubleshooting the launcher, not as a substitute for uninstalling game files.
Uninstall an unused LIVE or PTU environment
- Open the RSI Launcher and select the environment you want to remove, such as LIVE or PTU. Make sure you have selected the channel you mean to uninstall; the action is for that selected environment.
- Open that environment’s gear menu and choose Uninstall.
- Wait for the uninstall to finish. RSI says the install option should reappear when the removal is complete. If it does not, do not assume the files are gone; check the launcher’s installation location and the actual folder before taking further action.
This is the more targeted option when you want to keep another installed environment. It avoids using the broader full-deletion procedure solely to remove one channel.
Check the launcher’s install location before deleting anything
If the launcher behaves as though the game is not installed, or you are unsure where its files are stored, verify the path before manually removing folders. RSI’s “Install the RSI Star Citizen Launcher” guidance says the launcher may fail to recognize an existing installation when its configured install location does not match the folder where the game actually resides.
Rank #2
- THE SSD ALL-STAR: The latest 870 EVO has indisputable performance, reliability and compatibility built upon Samsung's pioneering technology.Computer Platform:PC.Encryption : Class 0 (AES 256) TCG/Opal v2.0, MS eDrive (IEEE1667), Environmental Specs - Shock : 1,500 G & 0.5 ms (Half sine).
- EXCELLENCE IN PERFORMANCE: Enjoy professional level SSD performance with 870 EVO, which maximizes the SATA interface limit to 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds, Accelerates write speeds and maintains long term high performance with a larger variable buffer
- INDUSTRY DEFINING RELIABILITY: Meet the demands of every task from everyday computing to 8K video processing, with up to 2,400 TBW
- MORE COMPATIBLE THAN EVER: 870 EVO has been compatibility tested for major host systems and applications, including chipsets, motherboards, NAS, and video recording devices. Interface- SATA 6GB/s, compatible with SATA 3GB/s and SATA 1.5GB/s interfaces
- Open RSI Launcher settings.
- Go to Games and check the install location. Compare the configured location with the folder that contains the existing installation.
- Use the correct path before reinstalling or cleaning up. A mismatch can make the launcher act as if the game is absent even when files remain on the drive.
Confirming the location first can prevent an unnecessary download or deletion. It also helps you avoid removing the wrong folder when more than one installation or environment is present.
Prepare before full deletion
Full deletion is not the first step for every storage problem. RSI’s “How to delete the RSI Launcher and Star Citizen,” updated July 29, 2026, describes it as a full cleanup and reinstall/troubleshooting process. Before following it, preserve personal configuration that you may want to restore.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors- Save custom control profiles and keybindings from
USERControlsMappings. - Save any custom
user.cfgfile. - Make sure you intend to remove the complete installation rather than only an unused LIVE or PTU environment.
These instructions refer to Windows locations and should not be treated as macOS or Linux paths. If you use another operating system, do not apply the Windows folder guidance literally.
Use RSI’s full cleanup procedure only when appropriate
RSI’s full deletion guide covers the launcher’s Roaming app-data folder, Star Citizen’s Local app-data folder, the RSI installation folder under Program Files, and emptying the Recycle Bin. Those are broader cleanup targets than the launcher’s cache control. Follow the current RSI guide for the deletion sequence and exact folder locations, rather than guessing which similarly named folders are safe to remove.
Deleting files without accounting for custom mappings or configuration can remove settings you wanted to keep. Also, deleting a folder does not necessarily reclaim its space immediately if the files remain in the Recycle Bin. Empty the bin if your goal is to recover the space occupied by the deleted installation files.
Rank #3
- HUGE SPEED BOOST: Get random read/write speeds that are 40%/55% faster than 980 PRO; Experience up to 1400K/1550K IOPS, while sequential read/write speeds up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s reach near the max performance of PCIe 4.0*
- BREAKTHROUGH POWER EFFICIENCY: Use less power and get more performance; Enjoy up to 50% improved performance per watt over 980 PRO, plus optimal power efficiency with max PCIe 4.0 performance**
- SMART THERMAL CONTROL: Samsung's own nickel-coated controller delivers effective thermal control; With its slim size, 990 PRO is a perfect fit for desktops and laptops that meet the PCI-SIG D8 standard***
- THE CHAMPION MAKER: Up to 65% improvement in random performance enables faster loads for an ultimate gaming experience on PS5 and DirectStorage PC games****
- SAMSUNG MAGICIAN SOFTWARE: Get the most out of your SSD with Samsung Magician's advanced yet intuitive optimization tools; Monitor drive health, protect valuable data, and receive important updates for your 990 PRO
Full deletion may make sense if you are removing the game entirely or preparing for a clean reinstall. It is unnecessary merely to try the launcher’s cache option or to uninstall one environment; use the narrower launcher uninstall for that case.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
What Clear Launcher Cache does—and does not promise
The RSI Launcher includes a Clear Launcher Cache control that refreshes locally stored launcher files. RSI presents it as a troubleshooting option. The cited guidance does not promise a particular amount of reclaimed space, so do not count on cache clearing to make room for a large game installation or update.
Use it when addressing a launcher problem, not as a replacement for removing an unused environment or following the full deletion procedure. If your primary concern is capacity, first identify which game files are installed and how much free space remains on their drive.
Before starting an install, update, or verification
- Confirm the target drive: check that the launcher’s selected location is the drive where you intend to store the installation.
- Check actual free capacity: RSI warns that the launcher does not validate whether the selected drive has enough space.
- Use the correct requirement: the current cited figure is 150+ GB of SSD storage for Star Citizen, not a published requirement for Squadron 42.
- Allow headroom: no separate temporary update-space figure is stated in the cited RSI information. Avoid planning to fill the drive to its limit.
- Keep custom files safe: if you are proceeding with full deletion, back up control mappings and
user.cfgfirst.
These checks matter not only before a first installation. RSI notes that insufficient space can cause problems during installation, updates, or verification, so freeing space only after an operation fails may mean repeating work.
Should you delete files or buy another SSD?
Cleanup is usually the first option when an unused LIVE or PTU environment occupies the drive. Removing only that channel preserves the environment you still use and avoids downloading it again later. Full deletion makes sense when you no longer play Star Citizen or want a clean reinstall, but it also removes the local files and settings you have not backed up.
Rank #4
- Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer and feel the difference with super-fast OS boot times and application loads
- Exceptional performance offering up to 535MB/s seq. Read and 500MB/s seq. Write speeds
- Superior performance as compared to traditional hard drives (HDD)
- Ultra-low power consumption
- Backwards compatible with SATA II 3GB/sec
If cleanup still leaves less room than the published Star Citizen requirement, compare the cost of an SSD with the time and bandwidth involved in repeatedly uninstalling and reinstalling the game. RSI’s cited pages do not recommend a particular brand, model, form factor, or total capacity beyond requiring SSD storage. Check your computer’s available slot, interface, operating-system support, and whether an internal or external drive is supported before purchasing. A cheaper drive that is incompatible with the system will not solve the launcher’s capacity problem.
Whatever drive you choose, judge its usable free space after the operating system and other applications are accounted for. The 150+ GB figure is a requirement for Star Citizen, not a recommendation to fill a drive to exactly that point. Leave practical headroom for updates and verification because RSI publishes no separate temporary-space number.
Common mistakes that waste space or settings
- Confusing the games: quoting 150+ GB as the size of Squadron 42 turns a Star Citizen requirement into an unsupported claim.
- Relying on the older 100 GB figure: the later September 23, 2026 system-requirements page is the better current planning reference.
- Deleting the wrong path: verify Games and the launcher’s install location before touching folders.
- Deleting
USERwithout a backup: custom mappings anduser.cfgmay be lost. - Forgetting the Recycle Bin: deleted installation data can continue consuming capacity until the bin is emptied.
- Expecting cache clearing to recover gigabytes: RSI describes it as a launcher refresh, not a guaranteed storage-cleanup tool.
Storage planning at a glance
| Question | What RSI’s cited information establishes |
|---|---|
| Squadron 42 install size | No current size is published in the cited information; RSI said it was still in development and unavailable as of April 16, 2026. |
| Star Citizen storage requirement | 150+ GB of SSD storage for both minimum and recommended specifications on RSI’s page updated September 23, 2026. |
| Older launcher troubleshooting figure | 100 GB for the launcher and Star Citizen; conflicts with the newer system-requirements page. |
| Temporary space for updates | Not stated in the cited RSI information. |
| Cache space recovered | No fixed amount or guarantee stated; cache clearing is described as launcher troubleshooting. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gigabytes is Squadron 42?
RSI had not published a current download or install size in its April 16, 2026 checklist, which said the game was still in development and unavailable. Do not use Star Citizen’s 150+ GB requirement as a Squadron 42 figure.
Is 150+ GB enough for Squadron 42?
That is not established. The 150+ GB SSD figure comes from RSI’s Star Citizen system-requirements page, updated September 23, 2026. It does not specify Squadron 42.
Why does RSI mention 100 GB in one place?
An older launcher troubleshooting page mentions 100 GB for the launcher and Star Citizen. It conflicts with the newer 150+ GB system-requirements page, so use the dated newer requirement for current planning.
Best Value
- THE SSD ALL-STAR: The latest 870 EVO has indisputable performance, reliability and compatibility built upon Samsung's pioneering technology. S.M.A.R.T. Support: Yes
- EXCELLENCE IN PERFORMANCE: Enjoy professional level SSD performance which maximizes the SATA interface limit to 560 530 MB/s sequential speeds,* accelerates write speeds and maintains long term high performance with a larger variable buffer, Designed for gamers and professionals to handle heavy workloads of high-end PCs, workstations and NAS
- INDUSTRY-DEFINING RELIABILITY: Meet the demands of every task — from everyday computing to 8K video processing, with up to 600 TBW** under a 5-year limited warranty***
- MORE COMPATIBLE THAN EVER: The 870 EVO has been compatibility tested**** for major host systems and applications, including chipsets, motherboards, NAS, and video recording devices
- UPGRADE WITH EASE: Using the 870 EVO SSD is as simple as plugging it into the standard 2.5 inch SATA form factor on your desktop PC or laptop; The renewed migration software takes care of the rest
How do I uninstall only PTU or LIVE?
In the RSI Launcher, select the LIVE or PTU environment you want to remove, open its gear menu, and choose Uninstall. The install option should return after the process completes.
Will Clear Launcher Cache free enough space for an install?
There is no promised amount. RSI presents Clear Launcher Cache as a troubleshooting refresh, not as a guaranteed way to remove substantial game-installation data.
What should I back up before deleting Star Citizen?
Save custom control profiles and keybindings from USERControlsMappings, along with any custom user.cfg. RSI’s listed folder locations are Windows-specific.
The Bottom Line
Squadron 42 had no published install size in RSI’s April 16, 2026 availability information. The current 150+ GB SSD requirement, updated September 23, 2026, belongs to Star Citizen. To recover space, first remove an unused LIVE or PTU environment through the launcher; use full deletion only when removing the whole installation or preparing a reinstall. Check the install path and free capacity, back up custom mappings and user.cfg, and empty the Recycle Bin after deletion.
Quick Recap
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.
