MSFS 2024 needs 50 GB on PC, while Xbox size varies. Learn how much free space to keep for updates, cache, offline content and add-ons.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 officially requires 50 GB of storage on PC. On Xbox Series X|S, the installed size is not fixed: it changes with the game build, reserved space, rolling cache and optional content. Keep at least 50 GB free, and preferably 100 GB, before installing on either platform.
MSFS 2024 storage requirements at a glance
| Platform | Published or reported size | Practical free space |
|---|---|---|
| PC | 50 GB official storage requirement | About 100 GB before installation |
| Xbox Series X|S | Varies by build and installed content | At least 50 GB; closer to 100 GB allows room for growth |
The 100 GB recommendation is headroom, not a claim that the base simulator always occupies that amount. It allows for installation files, updates, rolling cache, optional packages and add-ons. Our breakdown of the wider MSFS 2024 PC requirements explains how storage fits alongside memory, processor and graphics requirements.
Why can the MSFS 2024 download be smaller than 50 GB?
The initial MSFS 2024 download can be much smaller because the simulator streams a large proportion of its world and aircraft content instead of storing everything locally. Compression also means download size, installed size and required free space are three different figures.
A small storefront or download figure does not mean the complete simulator will always use that little space. Our explanation of why the MSFS 2024 initial download is so small covers the streaming system and why storage grows after installation.
What increases the installed size?
Optional content and locally cached data can make MSFS 2024 substantially larger than its base installation.
- Rolling cache: The simulator reserves local storage for streamed scenery so frequently visited areas do not need to be downloaded repeatedly.
- Offline content: Any world data or packages stored for use without a reliable connection add to the local total.
- Aircraft and airports: Marketplace packages and other installed add-ons remain on the drive rather than being counted as part of the base game.
- PC Community content: Mods in the Community folder consume additional space and may not appear in the launcher's reported game size.
- Updates: An update may need temporary working space while files are downloaded, unpacked and replaced.
A rolling cache is useful with a slower or capped connection, but setting an unnecessarily large cache wastes storage. See our rolling-cache size and configuration advice before allocating tens of gigabytes to it.
How much free space should you leave?
For a mostly stock, streaming-based installation, starting with roughly 100 GB free is the sensible choice. The official 50 GB PC figure is the lower requirement, not an ideal long-term allowance.
- Choose about 50 GB only if space is tight, you use little optional content and you are prepared to manage the cache closely.
- Choose 100 GB or more if you install aircraft, detailed airports, offline packages or a sizeable rolling cache.
- Keep spare space after installation rather than filling the drive completely; large simulator updates may need temporary room beyond their final installed size.
On Xbox, the figure shown under Manage game and add-ons is more useful than an old download size quoted elsewhere. It reflects the build and components assigned to that console.
Can Xbox run MSFS 2024 from a USB drive?
MSFS 2024 is an Xbox Series X|S title and must run from storage that supports Series X|S games, such as the console's internal SSD or compatible expansion storage. A USB drive may be useful for archiving a game, but it cannot normally run this title directly.
How do you check the actual installed size?
- On PC: Check the installed-files view in the Xbox app, Microsoft Store installation or Steam, depending on where the simulator was installed.
- Include separate package folders: A launcher may not include a custom packages location, the Community folder or manually downloaded content in its displayed total.
- On Xbox: Open My games and apps, highlight Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, open the menu and select Manage game and add-ons.
- Check the simulator settings: Review the rolling-cache allocation and remove optional content you no longer use.
Do not delete Xbox saved data or reserved space simply because it looks large. Doing so can remove cached material or force content to be rebuilt and downloaded again.
What if an update says there is not enough space?
Free additional space on the drive holding the game, then restart the launcher or console and try the update again. Reducing the rolling cache and uninstalling unused optional packages are safer first steps than deleting saved data.
On PC, also check the system drive because an installer may use it for temporary files even when MSFS 2024 is installed elsewhere. For the full platform-specific process, follow our MSFS 2024 update instructions for PC and Xbox.