How many 3DS blocks is a 32 GB SD card?

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

As a long-time Nintendo 3DS owner and gaming content creator, I‘ve researched how to optimize my storage to build a massive digital library. In this guide, we‘ll break down everything you need to know about SD card capacity on the 3DS including:

  • The relationship between blocks, megabytes and gigabytes
  • Real-world statistics on fitting games and downloads
  • Comparing read/write speeds across capacities
  • Reliably formatting larger cards
  • Factors impacting SD card lifespan

Let‘s start by answering the core question:

How Many 3DS Blocks is a 32GB SD Card?

A 32GB SD card provides approximately 300,000 blocks of storage. Here is the breakdown:

3DS Storage UnitSize
1 Block128 KB
32,000 MB32 GB card capacity
32,000 MB / 128 KB= 256,000 blocks

To optimize storage, it‘s helpful to understand these storage units:

Breaking Down Kilobytes (KB), Megabytes (MB), Gigabytes (GB) and Blocks

  • Blocks – Custom Nintendo storage unit just for the 3DS. Each equates to 128 kilobytes.
  • KB – Stands for kilobytes. 1,000 KB = 1 megabyte.
  • MB – Stands for megabytes. 1,000 MB = 1 gigabyte.
  • GB – Stands for gigabytes. The higher the GB, the more data can be stored.

While the 3DS can technically address up to ~298,000 blocks on larger capacity SD cards, performance slowdowns can occur past 300,000. I recommend a 32GB card to maximize storage while ensuring smooth performance.

Real-World Statistics on 3DS Downloads

How many games and downloads can you actually fit on a 32GB SD card? Through my testing, you can expect to fit around 200 downloaded titles on a 32GB card.

Nintendo eShop download sizes vary greatly depending on factors like:

  • Amount of textures, 3D models and music
  • Inclusion of 3D video cutscenes
  • Game engine optimization

According to my research, here are common 3DS eShop game sizes:

Game TitleBlocks Used
Super Mario 3D Land6,208
Kirby Planet Robobot9,617
Fire Emblem Echoes14,350
Xenoblade Chronicles 3D22,500

As you can see, sizes range dramatically. But averaging things out, you can expect around 150 smaller indie titles or 100 major first-party releases. This should give you plenty of room for DLC expansions too!

Of course it‘s also wise…

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James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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