Windows · Guide
How to Find Large Files on Windows 11
Short answer
Open Settings > System > Storage for a category breakdown, or install Everything and search size:>1gb to list every large file on your drives instantly.
Requirements
- Windows 11 or Windows 10
- Optional: Everything for instant results
- Administrator rights to index all volumes
Steps
1. Start with Storage settings
Settings > System > Storage shows what is consuming space by category and includes cleanup recommendations for temporary files.
2. Install Everything for detail
Storage settings summarize; Everything lists actual files. Install it from voidtools.com.
3. Search by size
Type size:>1gb in Everything to list every file over a gigabyte, then sort by the size column.
4. Narrow by type
Combine filters, for example size:>500mb ext:mp4;mkv;iso, to find the media and disk images that usually dominate.
5. Delete deliberately
Check the folder path before deleting. Large files inside application or system folders may be required.
6. Empty the Recycle Bin
Space is not returned until the Recycle Bin is emptied.
Alternative methods
1. Use File Explorer search
Type size:gigantic in the search box for files over 4 GB. It is slower and less precise than Everything.
2. Run Storage Sense
Enable Storage Sense to automatically clear temporary files and old Downloads content on a schedule.
Troubleshooting
Everything shows no results
Confirm the drive is indexed under Tools > Options > Indexes, and that the app is running with administrator rights.
Storage settings and File Explorer disagree
Storage settings include reserved and system areas that Explorer hides.
Space did not come back after deleting
Empty the Recycle Bin, and check whether a backup or sync client is retaining a local copy.
Frequently asked questions
What usually takes the most space?
Video files, game installs, disk images, virtual machines, and old Windows update backups.
Is it safe to delete Windows.old?
Yes, after you are certain you will not roll back to the previous Windows version. Use Storage settings rather than deleting the folder manually.