Do Nintendo Switch Games from Storage Run Faster Than Physical Cartridges?

When comparing digital games installed on the Nintendo Switch's internal storage or an external microSD card to those played from physical cartridges, the answer is generally yes. Games installed on the Switch's storage can often run faster, offering a smoother and more convenient gaming experience. Let's explore why this is the case.

Loading Times

Digital games have a significant advantage in terms of loading times. Accessing data from the internal storage or a microSD card is typically much quicker than reading from a physical cartridge. Modern digital storage technologies like the NVMe SSD (introduced in the latest models) allow for incredibly fast read speeds, which translates to shorter loading times. This is not just noticeable during initial boot-up but also during transitions between levels and loading critical scenes. The difference might be more noticeable in larger games with extensive worlds or storylines, where multiple assets must be loaded on the fly.

Performance

While the frame rates, graphics, and overall gameplay experience are primarily determined by the game's design and optimization, faster loading can enhance the overall performance. This is especially noticeable in open-world games where assets need to be loaded dynamically. The game can focus more on running at a stable frame rate once the loading is complete, rather than pausing while assets are loaded from a physical cartridge. Additionally, with digital installations, updates and patches can be applied quickly and seamlessly, ensuring you always have the latest performance improvements and bug fixes.

Game Updates and Patches

One significant advantage of digital games is the ease of updating and patching. Digital versions can be updated swiftly, allowing players to benefit from the latest improvements and bug fixes without the need to swap cartridges. Physical cartridges, on the other hand, require inserting and swapping, which can be time-consuming. This ease of update and patch does not just enhance the gameplay experience but also ensures that the game remains a polished product post-launch.

Convenience

Installing games on the internal storage or an external microSD card offers substantial convenience. Unlike physical cartridges, you don't need to physically change the game medium to start a different game. This is particularly beneficial for those who have a large library of games. The ease of accessing internal memory compared to an external device also makes the gaming experience smoother. For example, switching between games or adjusting your save points becomes a breeze.

Conclusion

While the difference in loading times and convenience might not be drastic for all games, installing them on the Nintendo Switch’s storage can certainly provide a better experience. Faster loading and smoother transitions contribute to a more enjoyable and immersive gaming experience.

However, it's worth noting that Nintendo does introduce some measures to limit access to the internal storage. For instance, certain services and features are restricted to use the encrypted NAND flash memory, which cannot be accessed by third-party storage devices. Despite these limitations, the overall performance and convenience of digital games on the Switch remain compelling.