In the world of smartphones, free up space on internal memory Moving apps to an external SD card without rooting has become a key necessity for our Android devices, especially for mid-range and low-end phones with less storage capacity. If you're wondering how to move apps to an external SD card without root, here's a comprehensive, up-to-date guide with all the possible options, compiling experiences, tools, and methods so you can make the most of your Android phone's functionality, even if you're not an advanced user.
Why move apps to SD card?
The intensive use of apps, games, photos and videos makes the internal storage fills up quickly. Move apps to microSD card It's one of the most effective solutions for freeing up space while extending the lifespan and performance of your device. Some of the main reasons and benefits of doing so are:
- Free up space on internal memory: Apps and their data take up a lot of primary storage, slowing down the system and limiting the installation of new apps.
- Allows you to install large applications: Games and video editing apps can easily exceed several GB, so moving them to SD helps prevent running out of space.
- Facilitates the management and transfer of files: The SD card can be removed and used in other devices for convenient data transfer.
- Reduces the risk of data loss due to damage to the mobile phone: If the SD card is intact, you can recover your data even if the device stops working.
- Free up RAM and processor usage: By optimizing internal memory, the mobile responds faster.
Limitations and warnings when moving apps to SD
Before you jump into moving your apps, it's essential to understand the limitations and specifics of each phone and Android version. Keep in mind:
- Not all phones allow you to move applications to the SD (depends on the manufacturer and model).
- Some apps cannot be moved: System apps, security apps, widgets, and critical apps are often blocked.
- The speed of the SD card can affect the performance of the apps you move. A slow card will cause apps to open and run more slowly.
- SD cards have a limited lifespanMoving apps that generate a lot of data can accelerate wear and tear.
- Apps on the SD card may crash if you remove the card or if it becomes damaged..
- Experience may vary depending on Android version and the manufacturer's customization layer.
Does your phone support moving apps to SD?
The first thing you should do is Check if your Android device supports SD cards and if the system allows you to move apps to the SD card. To do this:
- Consult the user manual or technical sheet on your manufacturer's official website.
- Look on the SIM card tray to see if there is a microSD slot or a hybrid tray.
- In your device settings, go to “Storage” and see if the option to manage your SD card appears.
Some recent models, especially high-end ones, have eliminated the SD slot. in favor of expanded internal storage and the cloud, so if your phone can't find it, you'll have to resort to alternatives such as USB OTG storage, cloud services, or external adapters.
Preliminary considerations: format and compatibility
- Make sure the SD card is inserted correctly and recognizes its full capacity.On older phones, the limit is usually 32GB (microSDHC), while newer ones support microSDXC up to 256GB or more.
- The format is key: For cards up to 32 GB, FAT32 is the usual, for larger cards, exFAT.
- If you see errors like "card not recognized" or your phone doesn't detect its full capacity, format the card from your phone, first backing up your data.
Options to move apps to SD card without root
Android doesn't always allow you to move all your apps to the SD card by default, but there are several ways to do so, which vary depending on the operating system version. Let's take a closer look at each of them:
1. Native Android method (for recent versions)
Many modern versions of Android (from Marshmallow, version 6.0 onwards) offer an easy option in system settings to move apps to the SD.
- Open the app Settings.
- Sign in Applications o Apps.
- Select the app you want to move.
- Press on Storage.
- If the app allows it, you will see the button "Change" where you can choose the SD card as the destination.
- Confirm and wait for the process to complete (the app may not work during the transfer).
Warning: Not all apps will be able to move, and some brands modify this feature or hide it.. Additionally, transferred apps may not work properly if you remove the SD card.
2. Using third-party apps: AppMgr III and alternatives
When the system doesn't offer the option, you can turn to tools like AppMgr III (formerly App2SD), one of the most recommended managers for its ease of use and results:
- After installing the app, AppMgr III will show you a list of installed apps and which ones can be moved to the SD.
- Click on the application you want and select Move to SD card.
- The process may take a few moments depending on the size of the app and the speed of your microSD card.
AppMgr III is especially useful on mobile devices where native functionality is limited, and also allows you to manage, hide, and clear cache apps. Similar management alternatives include SD Maid (especially on Android 4.4.2 and older versions) and Link2SD (requires root only for advanced features).
3. Format the SD as internal storage
Some mobile phones allow Format the SD card as part of internal storageThis "merges" the internal and SD memory, allowing you to install apps and data without having to manually select the destination. The typical process is:
- Sign in Settings> Storage.
- Select the SD card and in the options menu choose Format as internal storage.
- Warning: All data on the SD will be lost., so please make a backup first.
- Once ready, Android will automatically manage the space, although you will no longer be able to use this SD card on other devices without formatting it again.
This feature depends heavily on the system version and brand, and while it's useful for phones with limited storage, keep in mind that a slow SD card can hinder overall performance.
4. Advanced Method: Force Transfer Using Commands (No Root)
For technically savvy users, it is possible force move apps to SD Using development tools, leveraging the Android SDK and ADB commands. To do this:
- Install the Android SDK on your PC and enable developer mode and USB debugging on your mobile.
- Connect your phone and open a command prompt window. Type:
- adb shell
- pm set-install-location 2
- This will set the SD card as the preferred installation location. After this, many more apps will allow the "move to SD" option.
Caution: Not all applications can be moved, and some may stop working or become unstable after the move. Don't make changes if you're unsure of what you're doing.
Apps you can, and can't, move to SD
En general, You can move user apps and games that do not require being in internal memory., which includes most games, multimedia apps, productivity apps, non-native messaging, etc. However, you won't be able to transfer:
- System apps (phone, messaging, settings, Play Store, system widgets…)
- Services that run in the background at a low level (notifications, synchronization)
- Security, antivirus, or encryption applications
- In many Android versions, you also won't be able to move apps that come pre-installed by the manufacturer.
- The Widgets become unavailable if you move the app that supplies them to the SD card..
A good practice is Move games, apps you use occasionally, document editors, photo and video appsFor high-use apps, messaging apps, or mission-critical apps, it's best to leave them on internal storage to avoid performance issues or loss of functionality.
Recommendations and precautions when selecting an SD card
- Always choose original and quality SD cards, with good read and write speed (class 10 or higher, ideal UHS-I or UHS-II).
- Avoid very old microSD cards, defective or low capacity.
- Regularly monitor the status of your microSD card with apps like SD Insight or from the system settings.
- Performs backup periodic backups of important files and data stored on the SD.
- If you experience slowness or error messages, consider replacing the card with a new, higher-capacity card.
What to do if you can't move apps to SD?
- Make sure the app is compatible. If you don't see the option, it's probably restricted by the developer or system.
- Check that the SD has enough space available.
- Restart your device after trying to move an app to resolve any crashes.
- On older versions of Android, you may sometimes need to uninstall updates for an app before you can move it.
- If none of the above options work, consider alternatives such as storing photos, videos, and large files on the SD card and limiting apps to internal storage.
Can I have all apps installed directly to the SD card?
By default, Android installs apps to the internal storage. If your phone allows it, you can change the default storage location in Settings> Storage by selecting the SD card. Otherwise, you can try the ADB method explained above. However, Not all apps will support this setting.
Format SD as portable storage vs. internal storage
Format the SD as internal storage It allows you to install applications and data, but that card will no longer be readable by other devices without reformatting it. If you want to use the SD to transfer files between phones, computers, etc., keep it as portable storage.
- portable storage: Ideal for photos, videos, music, and documents. Apps cannot be moved (in most cases).
- Internal storage: allows you to move and install apps, but it will only work on that device.
To reformat an SD card (and erase all its contents):
- Go to Settings > Storage > SD Card > Three-dot menu > Format as portable or internal.
- Confirm the action.
Remember to make a backup before formatting.
Wear and tear and risks when using apps on the SD card
SD cards are designed for limited write and erase cycles. Moving large apps or apps that require constant disk access can shorten their lifespan, causing errors or data corruption. Therefore:
- Avoid moving apps that constantly modify a lot of data (large games with frequent updates, video editing apps…)
- Monitor performance and replace the SD if you notice slowness or failures.
Troubleshooting common problems
- The system does not recognize the SD: Try removing it, cleaning the contacts, and reinserting it. If it still doesn't work, format it from your phone.
- The transferred apps have stopped working: Make sure you haven't removed the card. If it's damaged, replace it with a professional one.
- Mobile slows down after moving apps: This could be due to the slow speed of the SD card. Consider investing in a fast card from a well-known brand.
- I have little space even though I moved apps to the SD: Clear cache and temporary data from Settings or using a cleaning app.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Apps to SD
- Can all apps be moved to SD? No. The decision is up to the developer and the system. Critical apps and system services almost never allow this.
- Is SD better for internal or portable storage? If you prioritize installing large apps and games, opt for internal storage. If you prefer flexibility and using your SD card on other devices, choose portable storage.
- Can I lose data if I remove the SD card? Yes. Apps will stop working, and you may lose unsynced files. Avoid removing the card while your phone is on.
- Why do non-mobile apps keep appearing? It's common: many developers don't allow their apps to be moved to SD, for security or performance reasons.
- Can I use external adapters or USB OTG? Yes, if your phone supports it, you can connect USB flash drives or SD card readers using an OTG adapter to temporarily expand storage space.
AppMgr III Video
Below is an official video showing how AppMgr III works and how it can be used to move apps to the SD card:
Are there any other useful apps for moving apps?
- SD Maid: Recommended for deep cleaning and advanced management on older devices.
- Google Files: It helps free up space, although it doesn't move apps, it does manage heavy apps and cache.
- Link2SD: For root users, it allows you to manage apps flexibly, partitioning the SD (only recommended for advanced users).
Always remember to download the apps from the Google Play Store and check the ratings and opinions of other users.
Extra tips to free up space and optimize your Android
If you can't move many apps, you can free up space with these tips:
- Clear the cache of large apps in Settings > Storage > Apps.
- remove duplicate files and download only what is necessary.
- Uninstall apps you no longer use to free up internal memory.
- Use cloud storage (Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox) for photos and videos.
- Move large media files to SD instead of apps, when it is not possible to move apps.
- Avoid overloading your internal memory: always leave at least 20% free so your system runs smoothly.
Moving apps to SD is a An effective and safe solution to free up space, improve performance, and get the most out of your Android., as long as you follow the compatibility recommendations and use a quality microSD card. Consider which apps you move and keep your backup up to date to work safely. If you know other tools that help move apps to SD without root, tell us in the comments!