Use Steam’s Download Manager to control downloads and updates, and Steam’s library tools to reclaim space or move installed games. Clearing the download cache is for troubleshooting: it does not remove installed games or free the space they occupy.
Control Steam downloads and updates
Open Downloads from the link at the bottom of the Steam client, or choose View > Downloads. The Download Manager shows download progress and lets you reorder items in the queue.
For broader download controls, open Steam > Settings > Downloads. There you can set bandwidth limits and schedule automatic updates. To change update behavior for one game, go to Library > right-click the game > Properties > Updates. Steam’s documented options include updating only when you launch the game. Menu wording and layout can vary by client revision, operating system, or language. See Steam Support’s guide to managing downloads and updates.
Free up library space by moving or uninstalling games
Move a game to another Steam library
Moving a game to a library on another drive can free room on the original drive without requiring a fresh download. First add or select a library location in Steam’s Settings > Storage, then use this path:
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- 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.
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- Open Library and right-click the game.
- Select Properties > Installed Files > Move Install Folder.
- Choose the destination library and confirm the move.
You can also choose an existing library location when installing a new game. Steam supports multiple library folders across drives. If you no longer want a game installed, uninstall it through Steam’s library controls rather than deleting files manually; the amount of space recovered depends on the game and its installed content. Details are in Steam’s downloads and updates support page.
Choosing another drive
Check your computer’s supported drive form factor and interface before buying an internal SSD. Steam does not endorse a particular drive, and the cited guidance does not establish a universal speed or value comparison between SSD and HDD models. Steam warns that external drives can have performance or connection problems; when an external-drive issue is occurring, it recommends installing Steam and games on an internal drive. Its support page states: “External hard drives are not recommended for use with Steam or Steam’s games.” See Steam Support’s guidance on games appearing as uninstalled.
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.)
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Clear the download cache only to troubleshoot
If downloads are stuck or behaving incorrectly, clearing the cache is one troubleshooting step—not a way to remove installed games or reclaim their storage. In the client, open Steam > Settings > Downloads > Clear Download Cache. Steam says installed games are unaffected, but you will need to sign in again. Steam does not give a general figure for how much disk space this action recovers. See Steam’s Clear download cache instructions.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.If a download or update still fails
For persistent installation or update errors, Steam documents several additional steps:
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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.
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- Repair the library folder in Settings > Storage.
- Verify the game’s local files through Library > right-click the game > Properties > Installed Files > Verify integrity of game files.
- Try changing the download region in Steam > Settings > Downloads.
These actions address download, installation, or file problems; they are not substitutes for moving or uninstalling games when the goal is to free library space. See Steam Support’s update and installation troubleshooting steps.
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.
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Rank #4
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- 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
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- 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
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