Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
You can share digital games on Nintendo Switch, PS5, and Xbox, but each platform handles access differently. Nintendo uses Virtual Game Cards and a separate lending feature; PS5 shares purchased and downloaded games through a setting on one console; Xbox sharing is associated with the Home Xbox setting, but the exact current rules and setup should be confirmed with Microsoft before relying on them.
How game sharing works on each console
| Platform | What controls access | Other users on the console | Offline play | Console limit or sharing scope |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch family | A Virtual Game Card loaded on the console | Can play the loaded game | Yes, when the card is loaded | One Nintendo Account can associate up to two Switch-family consoles for loading Virtual Game Cards |
| PS5 | Console Sharing and Offline Play enabled on the console | Can play the purchaser’s purchased and downloaded games | Yes | The setting can be enabled on one PS5 at a time |
| Xbox | Commonly described in terms of a designated Home Xbox | Game and subscription sharing are described by a secondary overview, but current details are not established here | Not established here | Current limits and benefits are not established here |
Nintendo and PlayStation details in the table are from their respective support pages: Nintendo’s Virtual Game Card Guide and PlayStation’s Console Sharing and Offline Play guide. Xbox information is described in a secondary overview; it is not sufficient to confirm Microsoft’s current terms.
Share digital games on Nintendo Switch or Switch 2
Load a Virtual Game Card for users on your console
Nintendo’s current guidance treats purchased eShop games and DLC as Virtual Game Cards. A card must be loaded on a console for other users there to play that title. Once loaded, the game can be played offline by any user on that console. See Nintendo’s explanation of access for other players.
One Nintendo Account can associate up to two Switch-family consoles for loading Virtual Game Cards. To move a card between those consoles, both must be powered on or in sleep mode and connected to the internet. You cannot move a card while its game is being played on the other console. Nintendo’s Virtual Game Card Guide has the full process.
#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.
Lend a card to an eligible family-group member
Lending is different from loading a card on one of your own linked consoles. It is limited to eligible games and Nintendo Account family-group members, and the consoles must be near each other to lend or borrow. While the title is lent, you cannot play it yourself. Nintendo allows up to three cards to be lent at once, with one game at a time per borrower; a loan is automatically returned after 14 days unless it is returned or retrieved sooner. Some games cannot be lent. Check the specific title and current requirements in Nintendo’s guide.
Keep save data separate from game access
Sharing a game license does not itself move your save. Nintendo says save data is associated with the Nintendo Account and the console used. A save transfer moves data from the source console, while Save Data Cloud is available to Nintendo Switch Online members for supported games. Check the save-data support for the particular title before changing consoles.
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.
Use a physical game card as another option
A physical Nintendo game card can be inserted into the console where someone wants to play, rather than transferring a digital purchase. Nintendo’s multi-console guidance describes this option, but confirm that the particular game and console are compatible: Nintendo’s multi-console support page.
Share games on PS5
Enable Console Sharing and Offline Play on the PS5 where you want other users to access your games. Sony says the feature is automatically allowed on the first PS5 used to sign in. To switch to another PS5, disable it on the previous console first; the setting applies to one PS5 at a time.
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 errorsRank #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.
- On the chosen PS5, open Settings > Users and Accounts > Other > Console Sharing and Offline Play.
- Select Enable.
- Download the purchased games you want other users to access on that PS5.
With sharing enabled, anyone using that PS5 can play the purchaser’s purchased and downloaded games and media while offline, and can use some PlayStation Plus benefits. Subscription content remains conditional: the membership must be active, and a game offered through the subscription must still be available through it. Confirm current details on Sony’s support page.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to know about sharing on Xbox
Xbox game sharing is commonly discussed through the Home Xbox setting. A secondary overview describes sharing games and subscription access through an assigned Home Xbox, but it does not establish Microsoft’s current device limits, exact setup steps, offline behavior, simultaneous-play rules, or which subscription benefits transfer. Those details should not be assumed from the Nintendo or PS5 rules. Check Microsoft’s current Xbox support instructions before changing the setting or depending on shared access.
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.
