Where are Balatro save files on Windows?

The common Windows Balatro save file location is %APPDATA%/Balatro. Open Run with Win+R, paste that path, and back up the folder before editing any .jkr file.

Where is the Balatro save location on Steam Deck?

On Steam Deck and Proton installs, look under the Balatro compatdata folder: [steam path]/compatdata/2379780/pfx/drive_c/users/steamuser/AppData/Roaming/Balatro/.

Which Balatro save files should I back up?

Back up the whole Balatro save folder when possible. If you only need one file, copy the relevant .jkr file such as profile.jkr, meta.jkr, settings.jkr, or a numbered save file before replacing it.

Balatro Save File Location

Balatro save file location by platform

If you need to back up a run, replace profile.jkr, inspect meta.jkr, or open a save in the editor, the first job is finding the right folder. This page keeps the common Balatro save file locations for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Steam Deck in one place.

Common save paths

Windows: %APPDATA%/Balatro

macOS: /Users/[user]/Library/Application Support/Balatro/

Linux / Steam Deck: [steam path]/compatdata/2379780/pfx/drive_c/users/steamuser/AppData/Roaming/Balatro/

The folder can contain files such as profile.jkr, meta.jkr, settings.jkr, and numbered save files. If you are using cloud sync, close Balatro before replacing anything so Steam does not overwrite your backup.

Quick checks by platform

Windows save folder

Press Win + R, paste %APPDATA%/Balatro, and copy the folder before opening any .jkr file in the save editor.

Steam Deck and Proton

Check the Steam library path that owns Balatro, then follow compatdata/2379780 into the Windows-style AppData folder. Editing a different prefix will not affect your live save.

macOS Library folder

If the Library folder is hidden, use Finder's Go to Folder command and paste ~/Library/Application Support/Balatro/.

When players usually need this page

Editing a save

You want to open a settings, meta, profile, or save file in the browser editor.

Backing up before mods

You are about to try a modded setup and want a rollback point before anything touches your saves.

Troubleshooting cross-device installs

You are moving between desktop, Linux, or Steam Deck and need to confirm you are editing the right compatdata path.

FAQ

Which Balatro file is my profile?

Your profile data is usually stored in profile.jkr. Back it up before using a Balatro save file editor or moving unlock data between installs.

What is `meta.jkr` used for?

meta.jkr is one of the common Balatro data files players inspect when troubleshooting account-level or progression-related state. Treat it as sensitive save data and keep an untouched copy.

Why can I not find the Steam Deck folder?

Steam Deck paths depend on the library where Balatro is installed. Search that library for compatdata/2379780, then continue into pfx/drive_c/users/steamuser/AppData/Roaming/Balatro/.