First check the free space on the drive where the game will be installed. Then use Windows’ cleanup suggestions, remove or move files deliberately, or choose another supported game-library location. The amount of space you need depends on the specific game and its current installer or update, so check the game’s current store or publisher requirements before deleting anything.
Check the drive that needs space
In File Explorer, open This PC and look at the available space for the drive you plan to use. You can also open Settings > System > Storage to see how storage is being used. Freeing space on C: will not help if the game is going to a different drive.
Check the game’s current store page, publisher requirements, or installer for its stated installation-space needs. There is no single free-space figure that applies to every large PC game, and an update or installer may have its own requirements.
Review Windows cleanup suggestions
Windows can identify categories of files that may be safe to remove, but review the selections rather than accepting them automatically. Microsoft’s Free up drive space in Windows guidance describes Cleanup recommendations for categories such as temporary files, large or unused files, cloud-synced files, and unused apps. Windows estimates the space each selection could free.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- Customize your drive’s RGB lighting with the downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) to show off your style and make every play personal.
- Kick loading into overdrive with a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 interface and speeds up to 2,000MB/s. (Based on read speed. 1 MB/s = 1 million bytes per second. Based on internal testing; performance may vary depending upon host device, usage conditions, drive capacity, and other factors.)
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S consoles. {Compatible with PlayStation 4 Pro or PS4 with system software version 4.50 or higher, PlayStation 5 (Play and store PS4 games; archive PS5 games), Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S (Play and store Xbox One games; archive Xbox Series X|S games).}
- Keep more of the latest and largest titles installed and ready to launch with capacities of up to 2TB. (1TB = 1 trillion bytes. Actual user capacity may be less depending on operating environment.)
- Built with WD_BLACK toughness thanks to a shock-resistant structure, this durable drive can survive a drop of up to two-meters.
- Open Settings > System > Storage.
- Select Cleanup recommendations.
- Review each category and its listed items. Select only files or apps you are sure you no longer need.
- Choose the cleanup action shown by Windows, then check the target drive’s free space again.
Know what Storage Sense will clean
Storage Sense can automate cleanup of temporary files and Recycle Bin contents. Its behavior depends on the settings you choose: it operates on the Windows system drive, and Downloads and cloud content are not managed by default. Check the configured rules before running it, especially if you keep files in Downloads or use OneDrive. Microsoft explains the settings in Manage drive space with Storage Sense.
Make room without losing files you want to keep
In File Explorer, inspect large personal folders such as Videos, Music, Pictures, and Downloads. Sort by size where useful, then delete only items you no longer need. Empty the Recycle Bin if you want to reclaim space from files already sent there.
Rank #2
- Built for Creators: Capture, edit, and transfer with ease. NVMe SSD with premium NAND Flash delivers up to 2100MB/s—perfect for 4K video, RAW photos, and gaming assets
- Record Without Limits: Direct 4K 120fps HDR recording from compatible USB-C iOS/Android phones, cameras, and tablets with supported pro apps. Ideal for high-bitrate shooting on the go
- Rugged, Reliable, Ready: Durable aluminum shell with water- and drop-proof protection. SMART monitoring and advanced error correction keep your data safe in any environment
- Works Where You Do: True plug-and-play with laptops, desktops, cameras, projectors, and more. Fully compatible with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox devices
- Pocket-Sized Power & Capacity Notice: Ultra-slim 2.85 × 1.52 × 0.40 in, 0.03 lb SSD fits any pocket or gear bag. Actual usable storage may be ~7–10% less than labeled due to system calculation differences. Supports up to 2100MB/s under ideal USB 3.2 Gen 2x2/Thunderbolt 4/5 conditions; older interfaces may reduce speeds
If you want to keep files but need them off the game’s target drive, move them to another internal drive or external storage. Files on an external drive are available only while that drive is connected. Microsoft’s Windows storage guidance also covers moving personal files to another location.
Be cautious with a previous Windows installation
Windows may offer the previous installation as cleanup space. Deleting it removes the option to roll back to the previous Windows version, so treat this as a deliberate trade-off rather than routine cleanup.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Rank #3
- 【Plug-and-Play Expandability】 With no software to install, just plug it in and the drive is ready to use in Windows（For Mac，first format the drive and select the ExFat format.
- 【Fast Data Transfers 】The external hard drives with the USB 3.0 cable to provide super fast transfer speed. The theoretical read speed is as high as 110MB/s-133MB/s, and the write speed is as high as 103MB/s.
- 【High capacity in a small enclosure 】The small, lightweight design offers up to 500GB capacity, offering ample space for storing large files, multimedia content, and backups with ease. Weighing only 0.35 Lbs, it's easy to carry "
- 【Wide Compatibility】Supports PS4 5/xbox one/Windows/Linux/Mac and other operating systems, ensuring seamless integration with game consoles,various laptops and desktops .
- Important Notes for PS/Xbox Gaming Devices: You can play last-gen games (PS4 / Xbox One) directly from an external hard drive. However, to play current-gen games (PS5 / Xbox Series X|S), you must copy them to the console's internal SSD first. The external drive is great for keeping your library on hand, but it can't run the new games.
Install or move the game to another drive
If another drive has room, changing the game’s destination may be easier than removing files. The exact controls vary by launcher; use its current instructions rather than assuming one launcher’s process works for another.
Steam
Steam lets you add a library location and move selected games through Settings > Storage. Select the drive, choose the game, and use the move option. See Steam’s Moving a Steam Installation and Games instructions for the current steps. Steam warns that installing Steam to an external hard drive can cause performance issues, so use a suitable internal drive for a game library when available.
Rank #4
- Note: Magsafe is not available in this version
- High-speed Data Transfer: Lexar external SSD ES3 supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write to transfer files fast for more efficient work. (Performance may be lower if not supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2 on Mac and other systems)
- Wide Compatibility: Lexar Portable SSD ES3 compatibility with iPhone 17 series (Not supported on iPhone 14 and older models), Android mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, gaming console, and more
- On The Go: Lexar external solid state drive ES3's thin, stylish, and durable design, weighs 42g and is only 10.5mm thick, making it smaller than a card and easily fits in your pocket. It comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience
- Data Safety First: Lexar SSD ES3 includes Lexar DataShieldTM 256-bit AES encryption software to protect files
Epic Games Launcher
Epic’s documented relocation process is more involved: make a backup of the installed game, uninstall it through the launcher, begin installing it in the new location, cancel after the download starts, copy the backup into the new folder, then resume installation so Epic can verify the files. Follow the current Epic Games Store Support instructions closely, and keep the backup until verification finishes.
Other launchers
For launchers not covered above, check their own install-location controls. When starting a new installation, choose the intended destination drive if the launcher offers that option.
Best Value
- 2000MB/s Read & 1800MB/s Write: This USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 external SSD lets you load, transfer, or manage large files, 4K videos, and massive game assets in seconds. Load games faster, edit RAW footage instantly, and manage massive creative assets without waiting
- Plug-and-Play: No drivers, no software needed. Our portable SSD works instantly with Windows, macOS, iPadOS, Android, Chrome OS, and Linux. Just plug in and expand your storage in seconds. Perfect for users who want a simple, hassle-free setup
- Ultraportable with Keychain Hole: The USB‑C external SSD weighs just 33g and fits in your palm. Attach it to your keychain, backpack, or lanyard—your photos, projects, and game libraries always travel with you
- Ready for Your Devices: Includes a USB-C cable and a USB-C-to-USB-A adapter. Works with USB-C iPhones (15/16), iPad Pro, MacBooks, Android phones, Windows PCs, PS5, Xbox, and laptops. A true universal external hard drive alternative
- Shock‑Resistant & Travel‑Ready: Built to withstand drops and bumps. Perfect for gamers moving libraries, students backing up assignments, and professionals editing on location. A reliable external solid state drive for daily use
Recheck space before you install
After each cleanup or file move, return to File Explorer > This PC and confirm the available space on the actual target drive. Compare it with the current requirement shown by the game’s store, publisher, or installer, including any additional space the game or installer specifically says it needs.
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.
