How to move the Steam library to another drive

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for moving your Steam library.

7-10 min read

Expert Verified

Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To move your Steam library to another drive, you can use the Steam client to create a new library folder on the desired drive and then transfer your games. This process ensures that your game files are correctly recognized by Steam after the move.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before moving your Steam library, ensure you have the following:

•A secondary drive with sufficient space for your games.
•Administrative permissions on your computer to modify file locations.
•The latest version of the Steam client installed.
•Backup important game save data to avoid any potential loss.

Method 1: Using Steam's Built-in Library Management

This method is the most straightforward and recommended way to move your Steam library.

•Step 1: Open the Steam client and click on 'Steam' in the top left corner.
•Step 2: Select 'Settings' from the dropdown menu.
•Step 3: In the Settings window, click on 'Downloads' from the left sidebar.
•Step 4: Click on the 'Steam Library Folders' button.
•Step 5: In the new window, click on 'Add Library Folder' and select the new drive where you want to move your library.
•Step 6: Once the new folder is created, close the settings window.
•Step 7: Right-click on the game you want to move in your library, select 'Properties', then go to the 'Local Files' tab and click 'Move Install Folder'.
•Step 8: Choose the new library folder you created and click 'Move Folder'.
•Step 9: Verify the game has moved by checking its properties again.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 users may notice a slightly different interface.

•Step 1: Click on the 'Start' menu and select 'Steam' from the list of apps.
•Step 2: The settings and library folder management steps remain the same as described above.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users will follow the same steps with minor interface differences.

•Step 1: Open the 'Start' menu and locate the 'Steam' application.
•Step 2: Follow the same steps as outlined for Method 1.

Method 2: Manual File Transfer

Use this method if you prefer to manually move game files without using Steam's built-in tools.

•Step 1: Close the Steam client completely.
•Step 2: Navigate to your current Steam library folder, typically located at 'C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common'.
•Step 3: Copy the entire folder of the game you want to move.
•Step 4: Paste the copied folder into the new drive's Steam library folder (create one if it doesn't exist).
•Step 5: Open the Steam client and go to 'Steam' > 'Settings' > 'Downloads' > 'Steam Library Folders'.
•Step 6: Add the new library folder if not already done.
•Step 7: Right-click on the game in your library and select 'Install'. Steam will recognize the existing files and verify them.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems during the move, consider the following solutions:

•Error: 'Game files are missing' - Solution: Ensure the game files were copied correctly and verify the integrity of game files through Steam.
•Issue: 'Steam cannot find the library folder' - Fix: Double-check that the new library folder was added correctly in the settings.
•Problem: 'Insufficient disk space' - Workaround: Free up space on the new drive or choose another drive with more available space.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your experience with these tips:

•Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + Esc - Opens Task Manager to quickly close Steam if needed.
•Command line: 'steam://install/APP_ID' - Use this command to install a game directly via its App ID.
•Hidden feature: Steam Backup and Restore - Use this feature to backup your games before moving them to avoid data loss.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Using Steam's built-in library management is the most reliable method for moving games without risking data loss.