How to check storage on Windows

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for checking storage on Windows.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To check storage on Windows, users can utilize various built-in tools such as 'Settings', 'This PC', and 'Disk Management'. Each method provides insights into available and used storage space across different drives.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before checking your storage on Windows, ensure the following requirements are met.
  • •A computer running Windows 10 or Windows 11.
  • •Administrator or user permissions to access system settings.
  • •No additional software is required, as built-in tools are sufficient.
  • •Backup important data before making any changes to disk partitions or settings.

Method 1: Using Settings

This method is straightforward and provides a visual representation of storage usage across different drives.
  • •Step 1: Press 'Windows + I' to open the Settings app.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'System' from the menu.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Storage' from the left sidebar.
  • •Step 4: Review the storage usage displayed under 'Storage usage by drive'.
  • •Step 5: Click on each drive to see detailed usage information and recommendations for freeing up space.
  • •Step 6: If you don't see the expected information, ensure your drives are properly connected and recognized by the system.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 offers a refined interface for checking storage.
  • •Step 1: Click on the 'Start' button and select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to 'System' and then 'Storage'.
  • •Step 3: Observe the new visual indicators for storage usage, including a breakdown of categories like 'Apps', 'Documents', and 'Temporary files'.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 has a slightly different layout but similar functionality.
  • •Step 1: Right-click on the 'Start' button and select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'System' and then 'Storage'.
  • •Step 3: Check the storage usage overview and click on 'Show more categories' for detailed insights.

Method 2: Using This PC

This method is quick and provides a direct view of storage for each drive.
  • •Step 1: Open 'File Explorer' by pressing 'Windows + E'.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'This PC' in the left sidebar.
  • •Step 3: Observe the storage bar under each drive, which indicates used and free space.
  • •Step 4: Right-click on any drive and select 'Properties' for a detailed view of storage usage.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while checking storage, consider the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'Drive not recognized' - Solution: Check physical connections and ensure the drive is powered on.
  • •Issue: 'Storage settings not loading' - Fix: Restart your computer and try accessing the settings again.
  • •Problem: 'Incorrect storage information' - Workaround: Run 'Disk Cleanup' to refresh storage data.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your storage management skills with these tips.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Windows + R' - Opens the Run dialog for quick access to commands.
  • •Command line: 'wmic logicaldisk get size,freespace,caption' - Displays detailed storage information via Command Prompt.
  • •Hidden feature: 'Storage Sense' - Automatically frees up space by removing temporary files and content from the Recycle Bin.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regularly monitoring your storage can prevent performance degradation and data loss.