HOW TO / GUIDE / GAMING PC
How to Add More Storage to Your PC for Gaming: Boost Performance and Expand Your Library

Written By: David Matthews

How to add more storage to PC for gaming

In the fast-paced gaming world, adequate storage space is crucial for an optimal experience. As game sizes grow and updates become more frequent, you must have enough storage space to store your favorite titles. This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to add more storage to your PC for gaming, ensuring you can keep playing without any hiccups.

The Importance of Sufficient Storage Space for Gaming

Adding more storage space to your gaming setup is important for several reasons:

More Games: Install and play a larger number of games without worrying about running out of storage space. With additional storage space, you can keep more games available without constantly uninstalling and reinstalling.
Faster Loading Times: Allow quicker access to game files to reduce lag and enhance gameplay. More storage space means less fragmentation and more efficient data retrieval, improving performance.
Convenience: Store and access game files, screenshots, and videos easily. Extra space allows you to keep all your gaming-related content in one place without sacrificing performance.
Improved Performance: With more free space on your local disk, your PC or laptop can operate more efficiently. This is especially true for solid state drives (SSDs), which perform best with ample free space.
Future-Proofing: As games expand, having extra storage space ensures you’re prepared for upcoming releases and updates.

Expanding a PC’s storage capacity specifically for gaming purposes is significant. Both internal and external methods can enhance storage, with external solutions offering convenience, portability, and compatibility, which can impact gaming performance and ease of installation.

Understanding Storage Options for Your Gaming Setup

Expanding your PC or laptop’s storage capacity offers several options. Let’s explore the different types of storage and how they can benefit your gaming experience.

Internal Storage Options

Internal storage options are directly installed inside your PC case or laptop and offer the best performance for gaming. Here are the main types:

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

A Hard Disk Drive (HDD) is a dependable choice for adding internal storage to your gaming setup. It provides plenty of space at a reasonable cost, making it great for storing a large collection of games. While not as fast as newer options, an HDD offers the capacity you need for your files without stretching your budget.

Feature	Description
Storage Capacity	Provides large storage capacity at a lower cost
Speed	Slower read/write speeds compared to SSDs
Ideal Use	Storing large amounts of data, including game libraries
Available Sizes	Various sizes, typically ranging from 1TB to 14TB or more
Connection	Uses a SATA cable for data transfer and a power cable for the power supply

Solid State Drive (SSD)

A Solid State Drive (SSD) is a go-to option for gamers who value speed and efficiency. Unlike traditional hard drives, SSDs offer quicker load times and faster data access, which can make a noticeable difference in your gaming experience. They’re perfect for those who want to improve overall system performance and reduce game load times, all while maintaining a sleek, quiet setup.

Internal SSD 2.5 Inch SATA Drive and Interal NVMe M.2 SSD Drivepng 1

Feature	Description
Speed	Offers faster read/write speeds, leading to quicker load times for most games
Cost & Performance	More expensive than HDDs but provides better performance and reliability
Types	2.5-inch SSD: Fits into standard drive bays using SATA connections NVMe M.2 SSD: Connects directly to the motherboard, offering even faster data transfer rates
Ideal Use	Storing your operating system and frequently played games

When choosing between a hard drive and an SSD, consider your budget, storage needs, and performance requirements. Many gamers opt for a combination of both an SSD for the operating system and favorite games and an HDD for additional storage space.

External Storage Options

External storage devices offer portability and ease of use. They’re an excellent option for expanding storage without opening your PC case or laptop:

External Hard Drive:

External hard drives are a solid option for expanding your gaming setup’s storage without getting into the nitty-gritty of your PC’s internals. They offer plenty of space, making them perfect for stashing away less-played games or backing up important files. With simple USB connectivity, an external HDD is a no-fuss, portable solution to keep your storage needs covered.

Feature	Description
Portability	Portable and easy to connect via USB port
Expandability	Ideal for expanding storage without modifying your computer’s internal components
Usage	Great for storing less frequently played games or backing up critical data

External SSD:

If speed and portability are at the top of your list, external solid-state drives are worth considering. These drives bring faster load times and quicker data transfers, making them ideal for gamers who need to move large files between computers. With the convenience of USB or Thunderbolt connections, an external SSD gives you the speed you need without sacrificing ease of use.

Feature	Description
Portability	Portable with faster speeds than external HDDs
Connectivity	Connects via USB or Thunderbolt for quick data access
Usage	Perfect for gamers who need to move large files between computers frequently

Cloud Storage

While not a physical solution, cloud storage options can be helpful for backing up game saves and other important data. However, due to bandwidth limitations, they need to be more suitable for storing and running games directly.

More Storage Space

When it comes to gaming, having more storage space is always beneficial. Here’s why more space matters and how to make the most of it:

Game Library Expansion: With more storage space, you can keep a larger number of games installed simultaneously. This eliminates the need for frequent uninstalling and reinstalling, saving time and bandwidth.
Future-Proofing: As games expand, extra storage space ensures you’re prepared for upcoming releases and updates without constantly managing your storage.
Performance Boost: SSDs, in particular, perform better when they have more free space. Keeping your drives with ample free space can contribute to improved system performance.
Content Creation: If you’re into game streaming or video creation, more storage space allows you to keep your recordings, edits, and final products without constantly offloading them to external storage.
Mods and Custom Content: Many games support mods and custom content, which can significantly increase the storage requirements. More space means more room for customizing your gaming experience.

Storage Capacity

Understanding storage capacity is crucial when planning your gaming setup. Here’s what you need to know:

Measuring Capacity

Storage capacity is typically measured in gigabytes (GB) or terabytes (TB). 1 TB equals 1000 GB.

Common Capacities

SSDs: Common capacities range from 250GB to 4TB.
HDDs: Typical capacities range from 1TB to 22TB or more.

Capacity vs. Speed

While larger capacity drives offer more storage, they don’t necessarily perform better. SSDs generally offer faster speeds but at a higher cost per GB than HDDs.

Estimating Needs

Modern AAA games can range from 50GB to over 100GB each.
Factor in space for your operating system (typically 20-40GB).
Consider space for other applications and files.

Balancing Capacity

Many gamers opt for a smaller, faster SSD (250GB-1TB) for their operating system and favorite games, paired with a larger HDD for general storage.

Scalability

Consider your future needs. It’s often easier to start with more capacity than you need rather than upgrading again soon.

External Options

If needed, expand your storage capacity later with external drives.

How to Add Internal Storage to Your Gaming PC

Adding more internal storage to your gaming PC can significantly increase your capacity. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Choosing the Right Storage Device

When selecting a storage device to expand your PC storage, consider the following factors:

Capacity: Determine how much storage space you need based on your game library and other data. Consider how much storage you currently have and how much additional storage space you require.
Speed: Opt for SSDs for faster load times and better performance. SATA SSDs offer a good balance of speed and affordability, while NVMe SSDs provide the fastest speeds but at a higher cost.
Compatibility: Ensure the storage device is compatible with your PC’s specifications, including available SATA ports or PCIe slots. Check your motherboard manual to confirm compatibility.
Brand: Choose reputable brands known for reliability. Samsung drives are highly recommended for their performance and durability.

Step 2: Preparing for Installation

Before you start the installation process, it’s important to take some preparatory steps:

Back Up Data: Ensure all essential data is backed up to prevent data loss during installation. This is crucial to protecting your existing game saves and other valuable files.
Anti-Static Precautions: An anti-static mat or wristband protects your PC components from electrostatic discharge. This simple precaution can prevent damage to sensitive computer parts.
Gather Tools: Depending on your PC case and the type of drive you’re installing, you’ll need a screwdriver and possibly a mounting bracket.

Step 3: Installing Storage Device

The installation process varies depending on whether you’re installing a 2.5-inch SSD, a 3.5-inch HDD, or an NVMe M.2 SSD. Here’s a guide for each:

For 2.5-inch SSD or 3.5-inch HDD:

Power off your computer and unplug it from the power source.
Open your PC case by removing the side panel. This usually involves removing a few screws at the back of the case.
Locate an available drive bay. A 2.5-inch SSD might need a mounting adapter to fit in a 3.5-inch bay.
Carefully slide the new drive into the bay and secure it with screws.
Connect the SATA cable to the drive and an available SATA port on your motherboard. The SATA cable is responsible for data transfer between the drive and the motherboard.
Connect the power cable from your power supply unit to the drive. This provides the necessary power for the drive to function.

For NVMe M.2 SSD:

Power off your computer and unplug it from the power source.
Open your PC case by removing the side panel.
Locate the M.2 slot on your motherboard. If you need help determining its location, consult your motherboard manual.
Carefully insert the NVMe M.2 SSD into the slot at a 30-degree angle.
Gently press down on the SSD and secure it with the provided screw.

Step 3: Formatting and Partitioning

Once the new drive is physically installed, you need to format and partition it for use:

Close your PC case and reconnect all cables.
Power on your computer and wait for it to boot into the operating system.
Open Disk Management: Right-click the Start menu and select “Disk Management.”
Locate your new drive, which should appear as unallocated space.
Right-click on the unallocated space and select “New Simple Volume.”
Follow the New Simple Volume Wizard to format the drive. For best compatibility with Windows, choose NTFS as the file system.
Assign a drive letter to complete the setup.

Adding External Storage to Your Gaming PC

Adding external storage is a simple process if you prefer to avoid opening your PC case or opting for a portable storage solution. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Choosing the Right External Storage Device

Consider the following when selecting an external storage device:

Capacity: Determine your additional storage space for your games and other files.
Speed: Look for USB 3.0 or higher for faster data transfer rates. Thunderbolt connections offer the fastest speeds for external drives.
Portability: If you plan to move the drive between different computers, choose a compact and durable option.
Compatibility: Ensure the drive is compatible with your operating system and has the right connection type for your computer.

Step 2: Connecting the External Storage Device

Plug the external hard drive or SSD into an available USB port on your computer.
Windows should automatically detect the new drive. If it’s a new drive, you may need to format it:
- Open Disk Management (right-click the Start menu and select “Disk Management”)
- Locate the new drive, which may appear as unallocated space.
- Right-click on the unallocated space and select “New Simple Volume.”
- Follow the wizard to format the drive, choosing NTFS as the file system.
Once formatted, your new drive will appear in File Explorer and be ready for use.

Adding Storage to Gaming Laptops

Gaming laptops present unique challenges and opportunities when adding storage for gaming. While they offer portability, they often have limited upgrade options compared to desktop PCs. However, several ways exist to increase your gaming laptop’s storage capacity and improve performance.

Understanding Your Gaming Laptop’s Specifications

Before adding storage to your gaming laptop, it’s necessary to understand your PC’s specifications:

Check how many storage slots your laptop has (often 1-2 slots).
Identify the types of storage your laptop supports (2.5″ SATA, M.2 SATA, or M.2 NVMe).
Please check if your laptop has user-accessible storage slots. (Newer laptops may have soldered storage.)

Internal Storage Options for Gaming Laptops

Many gaming laptops allow for internal storage upgrades:

Replacing the Existing Hard Drive:
- If your gaming laptop has a traditional HDD, replacing it with an SSD drive can significantly improve performance.
- Ensure the new drive matches the form factor of your existing hard drive (usually 2.5″ for laptops).
Adding a Second Drive:
- Some gaming laptops have an additional slot for adding storage.
- Depending on your laptop’s design, this could be a 2.5″ bay or an M.2 slot.
Upgrading to a Larger Capacity SSD:
- If your laptop already has an SSD, consider upgrading to a larger capacity model for more space.

External Storage Solutions for Gaming Laptops

External storage provides a flexible, portable option for adding storage to your gaming laptop:

External Hard Drives:
- Offer large capacities at a lower cost.
- Ideal for storing games you play infrequently.
External SSDs:
- Provide faster data transfer speeds than external HDDs.
- Great for running games directly from the drive.
Portable Gaming SSDs:
- Specifically designed for gaming, these drives offer high speeds and durability.
- It often comes with shock-resistant casings for added protection.

Steps for Adding Storage to Your Gaming Laptop

Determine Your Needs: Assess the additional storage space required for your gaming needs.
Check Warranty: Opening your laptop might void the warranty. If you’re unsure, consider professional installation.
Back-Up Data: Always back up your data before changing your storage configuration.
Installation Process:
- For internal upgrades:
  1. Power down your laptop and unplug it.
  2. Remove the back panel (consult your laptop’s manual for specific instructions).
  3. Locate the storage slot or existing drive.
  4. Carefully remove the old drive (if replacing) or insert the new drive into an empty slot.
  5. Secure the new drive and reassemble your laptop.
- For external drives:
  1. Connect the drive to an available USB port.
  2. Format the drive if it’s new (follow the steps outlined in the external storage section).
Set Up Your New Storage:
- You should initialize and format the new drive for internal drives.
- For external drives, consider using them for game libraries or media storage.

Maximizing Storage Space for Your Gaming Setup

To fully enjoy an immersive gaming experience and make the most of your storage space, consider these tips:

Chart-style image representing storage management for a gaming PC, featuring bar charts of different storage types (SSD, HDD, External Drives) with icons like a recycle bin, cloud storage, and file folders, set against a tech-themed background with dark tones.

Organize Your Game Library: Create folders for easy access based on game genres or developers. This can help you manage your storage more effectively and find games quickly.
Use Game Launchers: To manage your library efficiently, use game launchers like Steam or Epic Games Store. These platforms often allow you to choose installation locations, making spreading your games across multiple drives easy.
Regularly Clean Up: Periodically remove games you no longer play to free up space—uninstall games you’ve completed or still need to play to make room for new titles.
Prioritize Games: Keep frequently played games on your fastest storage device (e.g., NVMe SSD) for improved performance. Move less frequently played games to secondary storage.
Utilize Cloud Storage: Cloud storage services are used for game saves and less frequently accessed files. This can help free up local storage space while keeping your data accessible.
Monitor Storage Usage: Regularly check how much storage space you’re using on each drive. Windows provides built-in tools to help you visualize your storage usage.
Compress Files: Use Windows’ built-in compression feature for folders containing games you don’t play often. This can help save space, although it may slightly impact load times.
Manage Game Updates: Some game platforms allow you to turn off automatic updates. To save space, consider turning off updates for games you’re not currently playing.
Use Storage Sense: Windows 10 and 11 include a Storage Sense feature that can automatically free up space by removing temporary files and emptying the Recycle Bin.
Consider Additional Storage: If you constantly run out of space, add more internal or external storage to your system for increased capacity.

Troubleshooting Common Storage Issues

Even with careful planning and installation, you might need help adding new storage. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Image illustrating common troubleshooting steps for storage issues on a gaming PC, featuring realistic icons such as connected cables, BIOS/UEFI settings, command prompt with Diskpart, disk defragmentation tool, and a USB drive being reconnected, set against a modern, tech-themed background.

Drive Not Detected:
- Check all cable connections.
- Ensure the drive is correctly seated in its slot or port.
- Verify that the drive is visible in BIOS/UEFI settings.
Unable to Format Drive:
- Check if the drive is locked or write-protected
- Try using Diskpart in Command Prompt to clean and initialize the disk.
Slow Performance:
- For HDDs, run a disk defragmentation tool.
- For SSDs, ensure you have enough free space (at least 10-15% of total capacity)
- Check for driver updates for your storage controller.
Data Loss or Corruption:
- Run chkdsk to scan for and fix file system errors.
- Consider using data recovery software if you’ve lost important files.
- For expert assistance, view our Data Recovery page to learn more about our professional data recovery services.
External Drive Disconnecting:
- Try a different USB port or cable.
- Check power management settings and disable USB selective suspend.

Remember, if you’re uncomfortable performing any of these troubleshooting steps, it’s best to consult with a professional to avoid potential data loss or hardware damage.

FAQs

Q1: What’s the difference between an SSD and an HDD?

An SSD (Solid State Drive) is faster and more reliable, offering quicker boot times and faster game loading. An HDD (Hard Disk Drive) provides more storage space at a lower cost, making it ideal for storing large files and games that don’t require the fastest load times.

Q2: Can I install both an SSD and an HDD in my PC?

Yes, most PCs support installing both an SSD and an HDD. This setup allows you to use the SSD for your operating system and frequently played games, while the HDD can store your larger files and less frequently used applications.

Q3: How do I know if my PC has space for another storage drive?

You can check your PC’s specifications or open the case to inspect the available drive bays. If you’re unsure, consult your PC’s manual or seek advice from a professional.

Q4: What is the best storage size for gaming?

It depends on your gaming needs. A 500GB SSD is typically enough for the operating system and a few games. If you have a large library of games, consider a 1TB SSD or an additional HDD for more storage.

Q5: Will adding more storage affect my PC’s performance?

Adding more storage, especially an SSD, can improve your PC’s performance by reducing load times and allowing smoother operation of large games. However, it’s important to choose the right type of storage based on your specific needs.

Q6: Do I need to reinstall Windows if I add a new storage drive?

No, you don’t need to reinstall Windows if you’re adding an additional drive. However, if you plan to replace your existing drive, you may need to clone your current drive to the new one or perform a fresh installation.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading your PC or laptop’s storage is vital to enhancing your gaming experience. Choosing the right combination of internal and external storage solutions ensures that your system runs smoothly, has enough space for your growing game library, and loads games quickly. Carefully selecting storage options, such as a fast SSD for your most-played games or a high-capacity HDD for storing larger files, will better equip you to handle the demands of modern gaming.

Effectively managing your storage means your setup will not only meet your current needs but also be ready for future gaming challenges. Whether you’re adding more space to a desktop or a gaming laptop, the steps in this guide on how to add more storage to your PC for gaming will walk you through the essential process, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Now is the perfect time to assess your storage needs, explore the options available, and make the necessary upgrades. With more storage, you can fully immerse yourself in your favorite games without worrying about running out of space. You’ll be ready to dive into new gaming worlds with confidence, knowing that your system is optimized and prepared for whatever comes next.

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David Matthews

David is the owner of OTSCR and has been building and fixing computers for over 20 years. Starting as a hobby, his expertise has evolved into a successful small business. He now shares his knowledge through blogging and continues to provide top-notch computer services.

HOW TO / GUIDE / GAMING PC How to Add More Storage to Your PC for Gaming: Boost Performance and Expand Your Library

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