Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesUsually, yes—if your console supports background downloads in its low-power mode, remains connected to the internet, and has enough free storage. Nintendo calls this sleep mode; PlayStation calls it Rest Mode. The requirements differ by platform, and “off” does not necessarily mean the same thing as either mode.
What happens on each console?
| Console | Low-power mode | What must be true for downloads to continue |
|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch family | Sleep mode | Internet access and enough space in system memory, a microSD card, or a microSD Express card, as supported by the model. Nintendo Support |
| Nintendo Switch 2 | Sleep mode | Internet access and enough space in system memory or a microSD Express card. Nintendo Support |
| PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 | Rest Mode | The console must be set to stay connected to the internet. Automatic downloads and remote downloads also depend on relevant settings. PlayStation Support and PlayStation Support |
| Xbox | Use the current power-mode label for your console | Whether new game downloads continue in each current power mode is not established by the accessible official guidance here. Check Xbox guidance for your console generation and its Power options. Xbox Support |
Nintendo Switch and Switch 2
Nintendo says software and add-on content can download while the console is in sleep mode, provided it has an internet connection and enough compatible storage. Downloads can also be initiated remotely from a PC or smart device. The exact storage-card requirement depends on the console: Switch 2 guidance specifies microSD Express, not an ordinary microSD card.
To troubleshoot a download that is not progressing, check for a system update, restart the console, confirm that internet access is active, and make sure there is enough free storage. If you use Wi-Fi, keep the console within router range. If you use a wired connection, enable the relevant “Maintain/Keep Wired Connection” option in Sleep Mode settings. If the download still will not progress, Nintendo recommends trying again while the console is awake. See Nintendo’s Switch troubleshooting steps or its Switch 2 guidance.
PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5
PlayStation’s low-power background state is called Rest Mode. To download games in Rest Mode, the console must stay connected to the internet. On PS4, go to Settings > Power Save Settings > Set Features Available in Rest Mode and enable Stay Connected to the Internet. PlayStation also supports automatic downloads and remote downloads initiated through the PlayStation Store or PlayStation App, subject to the relevant settings. Menu wording can vary by console generation and system software; use the matching PS4 download guidance or PS5 download guidance if your menus differ.
#1 Best Overall
- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
What to check if a download stops
- Confirm the mode. Sleep mode and Rest Mode are specific low-power states; do not assume a fully powered-off console behaves the same way.
- Check the connection. A download cannot continue if the console loses internet access. On PlayStation, confirm that Stay Connected to the Internet is enabled for Rest Mode downloads.
- Check free space and card compatibility. Nintendo requires sufficient storage, and Switch 2 requires microSD Express when using a card.
- Retry while awake. For a stalled Switch or Switch 2 download, Nintendo recommends trying while the console is awake if the connection, settings, and storage checks do not resolve it.
Download speed is not guaranteed by sleep or Rest Mode itself; it still depends on the connection and other conditions. The official guidance cited here does not establish a general Xbox rule for downloads in each power mode, so verify the setting for your specific Xbox rather than assuming that “off” means background downloading will continue.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- One player can use a Joy-Con in each hand
- Two players can each take one
- Multiple Joy-Con can be employed by numerous people for a variety of gameplay options (additional Joy-Con sold separately)
- Slip a set of Joy-Con into a Joy-Con grip accessory, mirroring a more traditional controller. Or, select an optional Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Rank #4
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- 6.2” LCD screen.
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
Rank #3
- Play your way with the Nintendo Switch gaming system. Whether you’re at home or on the go, solo or with friends, the Nintendo Switch system is designed to fit your life. Dock your Nintendo Switch to enjoy HD gaming on your TV. Heading out? Just undock your console and keep playing in handheld mode
- This model includes battery life of approximately 4.5 - 9 hours.
- The battery life will depend on the games you play. For instance, the battery will last approximately 5.5 hours for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (games sold separately)
- Model number HAC 001( 01)
Rank #2
- 6.2” LCD screen
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
- Nintendo Switch is the home of Mario & friends
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