How to find large files on Windows

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

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

Quick Answer

To find large files on Windows, you can use File Explorer's built-in search feature, the Storage Settings tool, or third-party applications. Each method allows users to identify files that consume significant disk space, helping to manage storage effectively.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you begin searching for large files on Windows, ensure you have the following:
  • •Windows 10 or Windows 11 installed on your computer.
  • •Administrator or sufficient user permissions to access all files.
  • •No special software is required, but third-party tools may enhance functionality.
  • •Consider backing up important data to avoid accidental deletion.

Method 1: Using File Explorer Search

This method is ideal for users who want a quick way to find large files without additional software.
  • •Step 1: Open File Explorer by pressing Windows + E.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'This PC' in the left sidebar to search your entire computer.
  • •Step 3: In the search box at the top right, type 'size:>1GB' (replace '1GB' with your desired size) and press Enter.
  • •Step 4: Wait for the search results to populate. You should see a list of files larger than the specified size.
  • •Step 5: To verify, right-click on a file, select 'Properties', and check the file size.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 users can take advantage of the updated File Explorer interface.
  • •Step 1: Open File Explorer using Windows + E.
  • •Step 2: Select 'This PC' from the left panel.
  • •Step 3: Click on the search box and type 'size:>1GB', then hit Enter.
  • •Step 4: Use the 'Sort by' option in the toolbar to organize results by size.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users can follow similar steps with slight interface differences.
  • •Step 1: Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'This PC' in the left sidebar.
  • •Step 3: In the search box, type 'size:>1GB' and press Enter.
  • •Step 4: Right-click on any file to check its properties for size confirmation.

Method 2: Using Storage Settings

This method is useful for users who prefer a graphical interface to manage storage.
  • •Step 1: Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'System', then select 'Storage' from the left menu.
  • •Step 3: Under 'Storage', click on 'Show more categories' to expand options.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Large files' to view a list of files that take up significant space.
  • •Step 5: Review the files and delete any unnecessary ones.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while searching for large files, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'No results found' - Solution: Ensure you are searching in the correct location and using the correct size filter.
  • •Issue: File Explorer crashes - Fix: Restart your computer and try again. Ensure your Windows is updated.
  • •Problem: Search results are incomplete - Workaround: Use the 'Indexing Options' in Control Panel to rebuild the search index.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your file searching efficiency with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + N - Creates a new folder quickly.
  • •Command line: 'dir /S /O:-S' - Lists files in the current directory and subdirectories sorted by size.
  • •Hidden feature: 'Storage Sense' - Automatically frees up space by deleting temporary files.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regularly monitoring your storage can prevent performance issues and ensure efficient use of disk space.