Find out how much storage Counter-Strike 2 requires to download, install, and run smoothly. Get key system requirements and tips to manage disk space effectively.
If you’re planning to jump into Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), one of the first questions on your mind might be: How big is CS2? With modern games often requiring significant storage space, it’s important to know what to expect before hitting the download button. This guide will walk you everything from the initial download size to the total storage needed after installation, and provide tips for managing your CS2 files effectively, helping you prepare your system for the best gaming experience.
Counter-Strike 2 requires around 36 GB of download size as the game files are compressed, but once unpacked and fully installed, the total space used can exceed 50 GB. This includes core files, updates, and additional content. To install and run properly, it’s recommended to have at least 85 GB of free space available.
If you're upgrading from CS:GO, some files may already exist on your system and make CS2 take up more space than expected. To clean everything, uninstall the game in Steam and then delete the install folder before reinstalling.
Before installing Counter-Strike 2, make sure your system meets the minimum and recommended specifications for a smooth gameplay experience.
Component | Minimum Requirements | Recommended Requirements |
| OS | Windows 10 (64-bit) | Windows 10/11 (64-bit) |
| Processor | 4 hardware CPU threads – Intel® Core™ i5 2500k or AMD FX-6300 | Intel Core i5-7500 / AMD Ryzen 5 1600 or better |
| Memory | 8 GB RAM | 16 GB RAM |
| Graphics | Video card with 1 GB VRAM – NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 or AMD Radeon HD 7850 | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 / AMD RX 580 or better |
| DirectX | Version 11 | Version 12 |
Keeping your storage optimized is key to enjoying Counter-Strike 2 at its best without unexpected slowdowns or crashes.
Uninstall CS:GO if you upgraded from the previous version, as leftover files can take up unnecessary disk space.
It’s recommended to install CS2 on your system drive (usually drive C) for faster access speed and more stable performance.
Use an SSD instead of an HDD to improve loading times and ensure smoother gameplay.
Clean up your PC regularly by deleting temporary files, browser cache, and unused downloads to free up storage space.
Keep at least 15–20 GB of free space after installing the game to ensure it has enough room for temporary files and stable operation.
Check your disk space after every update, as CS2 often adds new features or maps that increase the overall storage size.
Now you know how many GB CS2 takes: around 30–40 GB to download, and at least 85 GB of free space to install and run smoothly. As the game evolves with new features and updates, its storage needs may grow. Keeping an eye on your available space and cleaning up unnecessary files will help you maintain a smooth, uninterrupted experience.
Counter Strike 2
