Recommended Free Tools
First find out where the game stores the progress you care about: on your device, in a platform cloud save, or on the publisher’s servers. Back up only what you can access, verify that the copy is current, and follow the game’s official shutdown notice for any export, migration, or offline-play option. A platform save backup may not include server-side characters, inventory, purchases, or other account progress.
Find out what kind of progress can be saved
Write down the exact game, platform, and mode—such as a downloaded or streamed PlayStation game—then check the game’s official support page and shutdown announcement. Look for explicit instructions about local saves, cloud saves, account progression, cross-progression, downloadable exports, offline play, and deadlines.
Different parts of a game may live in different places. A console or PC save tool may cover a local save without capturing account state held by the operator. Zen Studios’ end-of-support terms, for example, distinguish server-side progression and inventory from locally stored content; that is an example of one title’s policy, not a rule for every game (Zen Studios terms).
- Local save: A file stored on your PC or console. If you can access it, you may be able to make a separate copy.
- Platform cloud save: A copy managed by Steam, Nintendo, or PlayStation, subject to that platform’s game compatibility and sync rules.
- Server-side progress: State controlled by the game operator. A platform save tool does not necessarily export it; only the game’s official instructions can establish whether export or migration is available.
PC: confirm Steam Cloud, then copy the save files
Check whether the game uses Steam Cloud
Steam Cloud is configurable by developers, and some games do not use it for saves. Check the game’s Steam store page for the Steam Cloud indicator and consult Steam’s Cloud documentation. Confirm synchronization has completed before relying on the cloud copy.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors?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 reinstall#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.
If Steam presents a conflict between local and cloud saves, compare their timestamps and choose the version that reflects the latest progress. Steam lists common Cloud file locations: Windows C:Program Files (x86)Steamuserdata, macOS ~/Library/Application Support/Steam/userdata, and Linux ~/.local/share/Steam/userdata. These are not guaranteed locations for every game; developers can choose other save locations.
Make a separate copy of accessible saves
Steam’s installation backup feature is not automatically a save archive. Steam says backups of Valve-created games do not include saved games, and third-party games may store saves wherever their developers choose. Follow the game’s official save-location or export instructions when available, then copy the actual save files to a separate folder or removable drive. Steam explains the limits of its Backup Feature.
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.
Keep the original files untouched and label the copied folder with the game and backup date. A removable drive can hold files you have located; it cannot extract server-side progress or create a console export.
Nintendo Switch: cloud backup is not the same as console transfer
Nintendo Switch Save Data Cloud works only with compatible Switch 2 and Switch software and requires a Nintendo Switch Online membership. Check whether the particular game supports it and review the backup timestamp rather than assuming all titles are covered. Nintendo’s save backup instructions note that some software is incompatible; the console may display “This software doesn’t support Save Data Cloud backup”.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
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.
Nintendo’s nearby-console save transfer is a move, not a second backup: “This does not create a copy of your save data. Once sent, the save data file will be deleted from the source system.” The transfer requires both consoles to be online and the same Nintendo Account linked to the user on both consoles. Nintendo also warns that overwriting target save data cannot be undone. See Nintendo’s transfer instructions before proceeding.
PlayStation: streamed and downloaded saves are handled differently
Sony says saves for streamed PlayStation Plus games are stored on PlayStation, while saves for downloaded games are stored on the PS5 or PS4 console. Data does not automatically transfer between streamed and downloaded versions; PlayStation Plus cloud storage can be used to upload and download saves between those types. Follow Sony’s current save and transfer instructions. This process concerns platform saves and does not establish that the game’s server-side progress can be exported.
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
Use the shutdown notice while downloads or transfers are still available
Search the official notice for a save download, account migration, local-save conversion, offline patch, or stated deadline. Do not assume that a server closure automatically makes an export available. If downloads are offered, follow the title-specific directions promptly, keep the original archive, and store another copy separately.
PixARK illustrates why both the deadline and the contents of an export matter. Snail Games announced that retired server saves would be downloadable only for a limited period: its notice listed an August 24, 2026 server shutdown and download availability through September 24, 2026 (Beijing Time, UTC+8). It described an August 3 snapshot and an August 24 final snapshot with different completeness. Those dates applied to that transition, not to other games; consult the PixARK announcement for its specific details.
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.
Choose the method that preserves the progress you need
| Method | What it can preserve | Who controls access | Key limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Copy accessible local save files | Files available on the device; contents depend on the game | You control the copied files | Does not necessarily include server-side progression; save location varies by game |
| Platform cloud save | Compatible game saves covered by that platform’s service | Platform provider | Game compatibility and sync rules apply; a cloud copy is not proof that all account state is included |
| Nearby Nintendo console transfer | The save data being transferred | You operate both consoles | Moves the save and deletes the source copy; it is not an archival second copy |
| Publisher-provided export or migration | Only the data and snapshot specified in the game’s official notice | Publisher controls availability and terms | May be time-limited, incomplete, or restricted to a particular destination |
Verify the backup before shutdown
- Check that the relevant cloud sync or upload has finished, and inspect its timestamp where the platform provides one.
- For local files, confirm the copied folder contains the expected files and is separate from the original. Do not edit or overwrite the only copy.
- Read the shutdown notice for the export’s contents, supported platform or version, destination, and final download date.
- If a transfer or restore can overwrite data, read the warning carefully and compare the target save before confirming.
- Store an additional copy separately when the game provides downloadable files. A platform cloud save and an independent local archive are different safeguards, not guarantees of portability.
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.
