Before jumping into Counter-Strike 2 by downloading and playing it, players must first consider how much space the game takes up in their computer’s storage and hard drives. Ensuring your computer has enough space to hold the CS2 application is crucial to avoiding unwanted issues when playing the game. In this article, we’ll check out how much space CS2 takes to download and install.
Why Should You Know The File Size For CS2?
Being one of the most popular video games in the world, Counter-Strike 2, like other games, takes up a lot of storage space in a player’s computer. It is important to check whether the player has enough storage space to support the game so they can avoid installation problems.
It is also worth mentioning that games with large file sizes like CS2 might take a long time to download. Understanding the file size for the game can also help players come up with an estimated amount of time required to complete the entire download process based on their internet speed.
Finally, it is also crucial to have enough free space on your computer’s storage to run CS2 smoothly. A lack of space might cause the game to load slowly, lag in the middle of games, or simply crash without any notice.
What Is The File Size For CS2 In 2025?
When CS2 was first released, the initial file size of the game was around 34 GB. However, since then, the game has received updates and game changes which increases the file size of the game. In 2025, CS2’s file size is approximately 46 GB.
Compared to other Steam games, CS2’s file size isn’t that large. It is significantly smaller than popular titles such as Dota 2 and Marvel Rivals.
How Much Free Space Should You Have?
On the Counter-Strike 2 store page, Valve itself recommends players to have 85 GB of available storage space. However, as we’ve covered above, CS2 only takes up approximately 35 GB. So, why should we have an extra 50 GB of storage space?
Well, you must first understand that CS2’s file size isn’t set in stone at around 35GB. We must remember that the game is constantly receiving new updates and patches, meaning there is more game content.
With more updates being released over time, it won’t be too surprising if CS2’s file size continues to grow bigger and bigger, so having an avid amount of free storage space remaining ensures you won’t run into any storage issues in the future.
Should You Use SSD or HDD?
When looking to download CS2, you are given the option to store the game in your SSD or HDD. If this option is available to you, we highly suggest installing CS2 on a solid-state drive (SSD).
Storing CS2 in a SSD will result in faster loading times and an overall smoother gameplay experience. However, if you are only able to store it in HDD, it is completely fine, though you will miss out on some of the benefits stated above.
Managing CS2 Storage
If you’re having a difficult time managing your CS2 storage space in your hard drive, here are some things you can do:
Delete Unnecessary CS2 Files
If you’re a die-hard Counter-Strike fan, you have probably tried downloading some workshop maps or configs to enhance your gaming experience. Though these maps and configs can be fun and useful, the reality is that they take up space. If you are no longer using them, be sure to dive into your CS2 folder and delete some files you don’t use anymore.
Clear Your Game Cache Regularly
Just like your mobile phone and other applications, CS2 also rakes in cache files as you play the game. It never hurts to clear your CS2 cache files every once in a while – the process is extremely easy!
Here is how you can clear your cache files in CS2:
- Close Counter-Strike 2 and open your Steam desktop client.
- Next, click on the “Steam” button at the top-right corner and hit “Settings”.
- Navigate to the “Downloads” section.
- Look for “Clear Download Cache” and press the “Clear Cache” button.
- Steam will ask you to restart and login to it again. Confirm your actions if you’d like to proceed.
After following these simple steps, your Steam download cache, including CS2 cache files, will be cleared out. You’d be surprised to see how much storage space you can open up by doing this.
Uninstall Applications You Don’t Use
If you are lacking free storage for CS2, you can always escalate measures and begin uninstalling applications on your computer that you no longer use.
These applications can also include Steam games you no longer play. Games take up a ton of storage space, so make sure to uninstall the ones you have not used in a long time.
Files can also include pictures or videos. Instead of storing them on your computer, you can store them online instead and free up space for CS2.