Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteiTechGuides is reader-supported.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
The Sims 4 stores saves, Mods, Gallery files, screenshots, and settings in its user-data folder—not in the EA App or Steam installation folder. On Windows, open %UserProfile%DocumentsElectronic ArtsThe Sims 4. On Mac, open ~/Documents/Electronic Arts/The Sims 4. Inside it, saves contains games, Mods contains custom content, Tray contains Library items, and Screenshots contains in-game pictures. If your folders are missing, first check the live path shown in Main Menu > Game Options > Screen Capture; OneDrive on Windows and iCloud Desktop & Documents on Mac are the most common causes of an apparently empty folder.
Where is The Sims 4 folder on Windows and Mac?
The user-data folder is created inside the current operating-system account’s Documents directory after the game has been launched. Use the path for your computer, then open the subfolder you need.
| System | User-data folder | Saves | Mods | Screenshots |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows | %UserProfile%DocumentsElectronic ArtsThe Sims 4 |
%UserProfile%DocumentsElectronic ArtsThe Sims 4saves |
%UserProfile%DocumentsElectronic ArtsThe Sims 4Mods |
%UserProfile%DocumentsElectronic ArtsThe Sims 4Screenshots |
| Mac | ~/Documents/Electronic Arts/The Sims 4 |
~/Documents/Electronic Arts/The Sims 4/saves |
~/Documents/Electronic Arts/The Sims 4/Mods |
~/Documents/Electronic Arts/The Sims 4/Screenshots |
Open the folder directly on Windows
- Press Win+E to open File Explorer.
- Paste
%USERPROFILE%DocumentsElectronic ArtsThe Sims 4into the address bar. - Press Enter, then open
saves,Mods,Tray, orScreenshots.
Open the folder directly on Mac
- Open Finder and choose Go > Go to Folder…, or press Command-Shift-G.
- Paste
~/Documents/Electronic Arts/The Sims 4. - Press Return and open the required subfolder.
Confirm the path the running game actually uses
At the Main Menu, choose Game Options > Screen Capture and read Location Path. This is authoritative if you redirected screenshots, use a localized folder name, or have more than one Sims 4 folder. On the Load Game screen, hovering over an existing save can also reveal the full folder path.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
What is the difference between the user-data folder and the install folder?
The launcher creates a program folder and a separate user-data folder. The program folder contains executables and installed game files; your saves and Mods do not belong there.
Popular on Amazon
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
| Folder type | Typical Windows location | What belongs there |
|---|---|---|
| EA App program files | C:Program FilesEA Games (unless you chose another library) |
Game installation files |
| Steam program files | C:Program Files (x86)Steamsteamappscommon (unless changed) |
Game installation files |
| User data | %UserProfile%DocumentsElectronic ArtsThe Sims 4 |
Saves, Mods, Tray items, screenshots, settings, and caches |
EA App, Steam, Epic, or an older launcher does not change the expected Documents location. Keep the program and user-data folders separate; combining them can result in a new empty profile and possible save loss.
Where are Sims 4 saves stored, and how do the backup files work?
Save games are in the saves subfolder. A live save has a name such as Slot_0000002a.save: it uses exactly eight hexadecimal characters (0–9 and a–f) after Slot_ and ends in .save.
Slot_XXXXXXXX.saveis the current save file..ver0through.ver4are rolling backups;.ver0is newest and.ver4oldest.- The game keeps the last five pre-current versions. A leftover
Slot_00000001.savewas once an automatic save and can be removed if it is no longer used.
Restore a save from a rolling backup
- Quit The Sims 4 completely.
- Copy the suspected backup, for example
Slot_0000002a.save.ver0, to a safe location first. - In the
savesfolder, give the copy a non-conflictingSlot_XXXXXXXXnumber and remove the.ver0(or other version) suffix so the filename ends in.save. - Start the game and test the restored slot. If it loads, immediately use Save As so the recovered version is not overwritten.
A nested path such as savessaves is not read. Some script mods create their own settings directories inside saves; do not mistake those for game slots.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Where is the Sims 4 Mods folder on Windows and Mac?
Put unzipped custom-content and mod files in Mods under the user-data folder. Never put them in Program Files, the EA App library, a Steam library, Epic’s install directory, or Tray.
Install custom content and script mods
- Download the file and extract any
.zipor.rararchive. - Place
.packagecustom-content files or.ts4scriptmod files in the appropriateModsfolder. - Launch the game and choose Game Options > Other.
- Enable Enable Custom Content and Mods. For script mods, also enable Script Mods Allowed.
- Choose Apply Changes, fully exit the game, and relaunch it.
| File type | Maximum folder depth below Mods |
Example |
|---|---|---|
.ts4script |
One subfolder | ModsCreatormod.ts4script |
.package |
Up to five subfolders | ModsHairCreatorSetitem.package |
After adding or removing CC, delete localthumbcache.package from the user-data root; the game regenerates it. If files are correctly placed but do not appear, remove ModsResource.cfg and relaunch so the game creates a fresh copy. Patches can disable Mods automatically, so check both settings after updates. Saving while required CC is disabled can strip that content from the save.
Also popular on Amazon
- 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.
Mods are supported on PC and Mac only, not PlayStation or Xbox. EA and Maxis do not pre-screen, endorse, or support specific Mods or Custom Content; keep copies of your saves before adding unfamiliar files.
Where do Sims 4 screenshots go?
Press C during play to capture a still image. The game normally writes a PNG file to Screenshots under the user-data folder. That folder may not exist until the first capture.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Use Game Options > Screen Capture > Picture Capture to include or exclude the interface, show a confirmation dialog, or change the destination. If Screenshots is empty, check Location Path and the custom destination first. Phone and camera captures also use the screenshots destination.
Build Mode shortcuts remain useful when preparing images: G hides the grid, Tab enters free-camera mode, and T switches to a top-down view.
Where are Sims 4 videos saved?
On Windows, press V for in-game video capture; files go to Recorded Videos. EA states that in-game video capture is not currently supported on Mac, so that folder and shortcut do not provide Mac recordings.
Also popular on Amazon
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
What other files are in the Sims 4 user-data folder?
| Folder or file | Purpose |
|---|---|
Tray |
Library households, lots, and rooms exported from the Gallery. Custom content used by those items still belongs in Mods. |
Recorded Videos |
PC in-game videos captured with V. |
Custom Music |
Player MP3 files, placed in station subfolders such as Alternative, Blues, or Classical. |
options.ini |
Graphics and game-option preferences. |
UserSetting.ini |
Tutorial flags, some interface and account settings, disabled packs, and certain event-reward unlocks. |
localthumbcache.package |
Thumbnail cache that can be deleted and regenerated after CC changes. |
Resource.cfg |
Mod-loading configuration inside Mods. |
Folders are created on demand, so a new installation may not show every item. Localized installations can rename the root, for example Los Sims 4 in Spanish, and may translate subfolders such as Screenshots or Recorded Videos. Copy files into the folder used by the current language rather than assuming the English name.
Why can’t I find my Sims 4 folder or saves?
An absent or empty folder usually means Windows or macOS is presenting a different Documents location, the game has not created user data yet, or files were placed in an install directory. Check the in-game Location Path before moving or deleting anything.
Windows OneDrive redirected Documents
If Documents is backed up, the live path can be %USERPROFILE%OneDriveDocumentsElectronic ArtsThe Sims 4 or a work account variant such as OneDrive - Organization. Search OneDrive’s My files and Recycle bin for Slot_, Tray, Mods, or ConfigOverride. Low cloud storage can remove or rename duplicates, including names ending in - Copy.
EA does not store saves on its servers, so an EA-account sign-in cannot restore a missing local save. Households and builds previously uploaded to the Gallery may still be recoverable there.
Mac iCloud Desktop & Documents
When internal storage is low and iCloud is set to optimize Desktop & Documents, macOS can offload the Sims 4 folder. The game may then recreate an empty local folder at each launch while the original remains in iCloud Drive > Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4.
Also popular on Amazon
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
- Free local disk space.
- In iCloud Drive options, turn off Desktop & Documents Folders and Optimise Mac Storage.
- Copy the original folder back to Macintosh HD > Users > your account > Documents > Electronic Arts.
Copy files before changing iCloud settings or deleting anything because deletions can synchronize. Finder is safer for most users than the underlying iCloud container path.
Other causes
- The game has not been launched far enough to create the folder.
- You are signed into a different Windows or Mac user account; the folder is per operating-system profile, not per EA account.
- The folder was renamed, moved to the Desktop, or left as a backup. The game does not read a Desktop copy as its live folder.
- A previous installation left
The Sims 4 Legacy Editionin Documents. - You are playing on console; this PC/Mac file workflow does not apply.
How do I back up Sims 4 saves safely?
Quit the game before copying. Place the backup outside the live The Sims 4 folder so a repair, sync conflict, or accidental deletion cannot affect both copies.
- Copy
savesto another internal disk, USB flash drive, or other separate storage. - Also copy
Tray,Screenshots,Recorded Videos, andUserSetting.iniif those items matter to you. - If you use CC, keep a record or backup of
Mods, but do not automatically restore an old Mods backup after a major patch; outdated mods can break the game. - Keep dated backup folders and test a copy of an important save before deleting the original.
All-pack program files were reported at just under 70 GB in 2025, and a large CC library can reach hundreds of gigabytes. Keep at least 25–30 GB free on the Windows system drive; additional space is needed for updates, caches, and backups.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How do I transfer Sims 4 saves from PC to Mac?
EA’s supported transfer method copies the entire saves folder; packs are redownloaded through the same EA Account rather than copied as files.
Recommended Free Tools
- On Windows, quit the game and open
DocumentsElectronic ArtsThe Sims 4. - Copy the complete
savesfolder to a USB flash drive. - On Mac, open Finder > Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4.
- If a
savesfolder already exists, rename it to preserve it or remove it after making a backup. - Paste the PC
savesfolder into the Mac folder and launch the game. - Sign in to the same EA Account and use the EA App’s game page to install owned add-on packs.
Can I move Sims 4 user data to another drive?
On Windows, moving only the Sims 4 folder is safer than relocating the entire Documents directory. Do not move Documents to an external drive; disconnecting it can damage the Windows profile.
Also popular on Amazon
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Windows directory junction
- Confirm the current live path in Game Options > Screen Capture.
- Quit the game and cut the entire
The Sims 4folder to a destination such asD:Sims DataThe Sims 4. - Open Command Prompt and create a junction, replacing the username and destination as needed:
MKLINK /J "C:UsersusernameDocumentsElectronic ArtsThe Sims 4" "D:Sims DataThe Sims 4" - Launch the game and verify that saves and settings appear. Junction the whole Sims 4 folder, not just
Mods; splitting subfolders can produce missing or corrupted files.
For Mac, community technical guidance uses a symbolic link to an external drive. Make a complete backup first, keep the destination connected before launching, and ensure the folder name matches the language currently selected.
What should I check when a correctly placed file still does not appear?
- Read Location Path in Screen Capture and compare it with the folder you edited.
- Confirm you used the current Windows or Mac user account and the current language’s folder name.
- For saves, check that the file is directly in
saves, has one.savesuffix, and is not a renamed- Copyfile. - For Mods, extract archives, enable both required options, respect depth limits, and relaunch fully.
- Delete
localthumbcache.packageafter CC changes; recreateResource.cfgif the Mods folder is otherwise correct. - Never overwrite a damaged save while testing a backup; use Save As after a backup loads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will reinstalling The Sims 4 delete my saves?
The program files and user-data folder are separate, so reinstalling normally does not target Documents. Still, copy the entire user-data folder first because a reset, account change, or manual cleanup can remove local files.
Can two Windows users on one PC see the same Sims 4 saves?
Not automatically. Each Windows account has its own Documents path and therefore its own Sims 4 folder; copy the relevant saves or use a shared backup location if you intentionally want to transfer them.
Can I recover a save that was removed from OneDrive?
Check both OneDrive’s Recycle bin and the local computer for older copies before assuming it is gone. EA does not provide a server-side save archive, although a household or lot uploaded to the Gallery may still be available.
How much storage should I reserve for Sims 4 backups?
Reserve room for the game installation, updates, and your personal files rather than only the current save size. An all-pack installation was reported at just under 70 GB in 2025, while extensive CC collections can require hundreds of gigabytes.
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.
