Should You Store ROMs on a Flash Drive? Exploring ROMS Storage

Using USB Sticks for Storing ROMs

Retro gaming is having a moment. These days, many people are downloading and storing digital versions of their old games, often called ROMs (read-only memory), so they can play them on modern devices, using a process called emulation. Once you have the ROM files, you need a place to store them, and the questions begin. Some people use an external hard drive or an SSD, while others use a flash drive, and some gaming devices rely on microSD cards.

Each option works differently, and each has its strengths. Flash drives are small, inexpensive, and easy to carry, but is it best to use a flash drive for ROMs? In this article, we'll help you decide which ROM storage solution is right for you. Let's review how each storage method works with today's retro games:

USB Flash Drives for ROM Storage

Flash drives are one of the easiest ways to store and move ROMs. They're small enough to fit on a keychain, cost very little compared to other storage devices, and work with almost any modern computer or gaming setup. For many retro systems, especially older, cartridge-based consoles like the NES, SNES, Genesis, or Game Boy, a flash drive offers more than enough speed and space. These games are tiny by today's standards, and most load instantly once they're selected.

USB drives reach their limitations with larger or more complex games that are often found on disc-based systems. Disc-based systems, such as the original PlayStation, PlayStation 2, GameCube, and Wii, use much larger files, which can push a flash drive to its limits. Flash drives also aren't designed for long-term archiving. They can wear down over time, and their lack of built-in health monitoring means they may fail without much warning.

For smaller, curated ROM libraries, especially collections built around classic 8- and 16-bit consoles, a USB for ROMs can be a simple and convenient option. High-quality drives with USB 3.0 or newer are the best drives for emulators. For larger libraries or gamers who want a single place to store everything, it's worth exploring other storage options.

SSDs and HDDs for ROM Storage

Solid-state drives (SSDs) and hard disk drives (HDDs) are two of the most common ways to store large amounts of data, and both can play useful roles in a ROM setup. Although they work differently (SSDs use flash-based memory, while external HDDs rely on spinning disks) they serve similar purposes when you're managing a bigger collection of games.

SSDs offer fast loading times and smooth performance, making them a strong choice for disc-based systems where games can be several gigabytes each. They're also more durable since they don't have moving parts, which helps if you access your ROMs frequently or move your drive between devices.

HDDs, on the other hand, focus on capacity. They're the most cost-effective way to store large libraries, especially if you're keeping full collections or backing up your entire ROM archive. While they're slower than SSDs and better suited for stationary use, they still load most retro titles without much trouble.

Some retro gamers use both: an SSD for the games they play regularly, and an HDD as a long-term home for everything else.

MicroSD Cards and NAS

MicroSD cards and network-attached storage (NAS) also play a role in ROM storage, especially for gamers who use handheld emulators or more advanced home setups. MicroSD cards are built into many portable devices, from retro handhelds to Raspberry Pi systems, and they offer a convenient, self-contained way to keep a library close at hand. They handle classic games without issue and make it easy to swap cards or update a collection. However, their durability and long-term reliability are similar to those of standard flash drives, so they're better for active use than long-term archiving.

NAS setups take a different approach by keeping your ROMs on your home network instead of on a single device. With a NAS, multiple computers or consoles can access the same library, which is useful if you play on several systems or want a central place to store everything. It's a flexible option for large collections, but it does require some networking know-how and a steady connection to work smoothly.

These storage types aren't necessary for most users, but they fill specific needs—microSD cards for compact, all-in-one devices, and NAS for households or setups where shared access matters.

Best Practices for Storing ROMs

No matter which storage method you choose, a few simple habits can help keep your ROMs organized and protected. The first is to use reliable, name-brand storage. Whether it’s a flash drive, SSD, HDD, or microSD card, choosing a reputable manufacturer reduces the chances of data loss or sudden failure.

It’s also important to keep backups! ROM libraries can grow over time, and if you’ve organized them carefully, you don’t want a single device failure to set you back. Many retro gamers keep their active library on a portable device and a full copy on a larger drive at home.

Another helpful step is to choose the right file system for your hardware. Some devices prefer FAT32, while others work best with exFAT. Formatting your drive correctly can prevent compatibility issues later (learn more about USB file systems here!)

Finally, if you’re using emulators that generate save files or save states, it's a good idea to keep those on your main device whenever possible. Storing your saves separately can help extend the life of your portable storage option.

Bottom Line: Should I Store ROMs On Flash Drive?

Flash drives can be a great option for storing ROMs, especially if your collection focuses on classic, cartridge-based games or if you want something small and portable. They're easy to use, inexpensive, and fast enough for most older systems. For many retro gamers, that makes them a practical everyday choice.

They're not regarded as the best storage for ROMs, though. Flash drives aren't designed for long-term archiving or for very large files, and they're not as durable as an SSD or as spacious as an HDD. If you're working with disc-based systems, balancing a large library, or building something you want to keep for years, SSDs or HDDs will serve you better.

In the end, the "best" place to store ROMs depends on how much you're storing and how you plan to use it. Flash drives work fine for smaller libraries and portable setups. SSDs offer speed and reliability for larger collections, while HDDs provide the most space at the lowest cost. With this knowledge, you should have no trouble building a storage system that fits your needs today and can grow with your collection.