If your family shares a game console, you've probably seen the message every parent dreads: "Not enough storage." Modern games are huge, and once a few kids start downloading their favourites — plus updates and saves — the built-in storage fills up fast. The good news is that every major console can be expanded, and the right upgrade is usually affordable and easy to install.

This guide explains, in plain language, your storage options for the PS5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and Steam Deck — NVMe SSDs, external drives, and microSD cards — plus the display and USB-C accessories that round out a family setup. Pick your console below and you'll know exactly what to buy.

Why Console Storage Fills Up So Fast

A single modern game can take 50 to 150 GB or more, and many need large updates after release. Add a few games per child, a handful of demos, screenshots, and save data, and even a console that sounded roomy on paper runs out quickly. Deleting and re-downloading games is slow and frustrating, so for most families a storage upgrade is the single most useful accessory you can buy.

The right type of storage depends on your console. Some need a specific internal drive, others use external drives, and the handhelds rely on microSD cards. Here's what works where.

PlayStation 5 Storage Options

Internal NVMe SSD (Best for Speed)

The PS5 has a slot for a compatible PS5 NVMe SSD. This is the best upgrade because it stores and plays PS5 games at full speed, just like the built-in drive. Look for a high-speed PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD; many for the PS5 include a heatsink, which is recommended. It installs in a few minutes with a single screw.

External USB Drive (Good for PS4 Games and Storage)

An external USB drive can store PS5 games (to free up the internal drive) and can both store and play PS4 games. It's a budget-friendly way to keep your library handy, though PS5 games must be moved back to the internal SSD to play.

Best for families: a PS5-compatible internal NVMe SSD, so every child's games install and play at full speed.

Xbox Series X|S & Xbox One Storage Options

External SSD or Hard Drive

The simplest Xbox upgrade is an external SSD or external hard drive that plugs into a USB port. On Xbox One and for older games on Series X|S, this is a great, affordable way to store and play a big library. An SSD is faster than a spinning hard drive and worth the small extra cost for a family.

Expansion Card (Series X|S)

For the latest Series X|S games at full speed, Microsoft uses a dedicated storage expansion card that plugs into the back of the console. It's the fastest option for next-gen titles. Many families pair it with an external drive for everything else.

Best for families: an external SSD for a large, easy-to-manage library, plus an expansion card if you need full-speed space for the newest games.

Nintendo Switch (incl. OLED, Lite & Switch 2) Storage Options

microSD Card (The Essential Upgrade)

The Switch has limited internal storage, so a Kingston Canvas Go! Plus microSD card is almost a must for any family that downloads games. The system installs downloaded games, updates, and screenshots straight to the card, and it slots in behind the kickstand in seconds — no tools needed.

Choosing a Capacity

A larger microSD card is worth it if several kids share the console or you buy a lot of digital games. Look for a fast card rated for gaming so load times stay quick.

Best for families: a high-capacity, fast microSD card — the easiest and cheapest way to end "out of space" messages on the Switch.

Steam Deck Storage Options

microSD Card (Easiest)

The Steam Deck accepts a microSD card, and it's the simplest way to add space for a family's PC games. Pop in a fast, high-capacity card and install games directly to it — no opening the device.

USB-C and Docked Storage

With USB-C accessories and a hub, you can connect external storage and an external monitor for a docked, big-screen setup the whole family can share.

Best for families: a large, fast microSD card, plus a USB-C hub if you want to play docked on a TV.

Accessories That Complete a Family Setup

How to Choose the Right Storage: A Quick Checklist

• Identify your console — each one uses a different type of storage.
• PS5: choose a compatible PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD (with heatsink) for full-speed games.
• Xbox Series X|S: an external SSD for most games, plus an expansion card for full-speed next-gen titles.
• Xbox One: an external SSD or hard drive works perfectly.
• Nintendo Switch: a fast, high-capacity microSD card.
• Steam Deck: a fast microSD card, plus a USB-C hub if you want to dock it.
• Buy more capacity than you think you need if several kids share the console.
• Add a surge protector to keep your gear safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the easiest storage upgrade for a family?

For Switch and Steam Deck, a microSD card — it slots in without tools. For PS5, an internal NVMe SSD is the best long-term choice; for Xbox, an external SSD is the simplest.

How much storage should I get?

If only one child games lightly, a mid-size option is fine. For multiple kids or a big digital library, choose a larger capacity so you're not deleting games every month.

Can I just use any microSD card?

Use a fast card rated for gaming, like the Kingston Canvas Go! Plus line, so load times stay quick. Very slow cards can make games feel sluggish.

Do I need a heatsink on a PS5 SSD?

It's recommended. Many PS5-compatible NVMe SSDs include one, which helps the drive stay cool and reliable.

Will adding storage delete my child's saves?

No. Adding a new drive or card doesn't erase existing data — it just gives you more room. Always follow the on-screen setup steps for your console.

Can external storage play the newest games?

It depends on the console. PS5 and Series X|S games run at full speed only from internal/expansion storage, though external drives are great for storing them and for older titles.

Summary

Every modern console can be expanded, and storage is the upgrade families benefit from most. The PS5 wants a compatible NVMe SSD, Xbox pairs an external SSD with an optional expansion card, and the Switch and Steam Deck just need a fast microSD card. Match the storage to your console, buy a bit more capacity than you expect to need, and the "not enough space" message disappears for good.

When you're ready to upgrade, Canadian families can explore NVMe SSDs, external drives, microSD cards, USB-C accessories, display cables, and other gaming accessories at PC-Hybrid.ca.