May 2026 preload
12.9 GB
Compressed size pulled by the Steam client during the pre-launch preload window.
Install prep
Subnautica 2 Download Size
Check your current installer for the download and installed size. The May 2026 Steam preload figures below are historical; later Early Access updates can change the package.
Allow 50 GB of available PC storage. This is the official PC requirement. The May 2026 Steam preload was recorded as 12.9 GB downloaded and 14.56 GB installed; those launch figures do not describe every later patch or platform.
May 2026 installed size
14.56 GB
Archived PC footprint after unpacking the launch preload.
Steam page requirement
50 GB
Available storage listed in the official PC requirements. Leave additional room if the current updater requests it.
By storefront
Steam
The install dialog and download queue show the current package size. The archived May 2026 preload was 12.9 GB.
Epic Games Store
Use the Epic launcher installation dialog for the current package size and required free space.
Xbox (console)
Use the console game-management and install screens for the current package size. Console and PC packages can differ.
PC Game Pass
Install through the Xbox app with a qualifying subscription. Use its displayed storage requirement for the current PC package.
Will this number change?
Subnautica 2 is in Early Access. Each patch can add biomes, creatures, or assets, so the install size will grow over time. The 50 GB Steam buffer is a sensible amount to keep free if you plan to follow the Early Access roadmap all the way to v1.0.
Leave room for the updater as well as the final installed game. Preserve dated save backups separately when making storage space.
Other install-day questions
Storage is one decision. These cover the rest.