Starfield preload times and file size

(Image credit: Bethesda)

You can get your Starfield preload started on every platform now in preparation for the game's early access release or full release. If you've pre-ordered the game and have it pre-installed, you'll be able to dive in as soon as it goes live on September 1 for the Starfield Early Access period. Otherwise, you'll need to wait a few more days for the full release day to play. Getting Starfield installed as early as possible is a good idea too because it's absolutely huge - over 100GB on Xbox Series X and PC - so you'll need plenty of time to get it installed. Here's everything you need to know to preload Starfield.

When can I preload Starfield?

Preloading Starfield is available on Xbox Series X and PC via the Microsoft Store and Steam right now! You can begin the pre-install if you've got Xbox or PC Game Pass, or if you've pre-ordered one of the game's special editions that grants you access to the early access period.

Starfield install size

The Starfield install size varies by platform, with the following download file sizes on Xbox Series X and PC:

Starfield Xbox Series X install size - 126.1 GB
Starfield PC install size - ~116GB

Obviously these are some huge files, and we recommend that you have at least 140GB of free space to be safe - the Microsoft Store lists the size of the game as ~140GB but the preload on Steam is thankfully a bit smaller than that. While you can pre-download it right now, you might need to prepare and clear some drive space first. Question is, which games are you clearing to make room?

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I'm GamesRadar's Managing Editor for guides. I also write reviews, previews and features, largely about horror, action adventure, FPS and open world games. I previously worked on Kotaku, and the Official PlayStation Magazine and website.

With contributions from

Will SawyerGuides Editor, GamesRadar+