If your Windows 11 computer is running out of space, the culprit might be those sneaky, oversized files taking up precious storage. Don’t worry—you don’t need to be a tech wizard to track them down. In this guide, I’ll walk you through different ways to find the biggest files on your PC, free up storage, and make your computer feel like new again.
Why You Need to Find Large Files in Windows 11
Running low on disk space can slow down your computer and even prevent updates from installing. Large files like movies, game installers, or hidden system logs can eat away at your storage without you even realizing it. By identifying these big files, you’ll be able to:
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Reclaim valuable storage space.
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Improve system performance.
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Keep your PC clutter-free.
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Delay the need for external storage or upgrades.
Method 1: Use File Explorer’s Built-In Search
The simplest way to hunt down those storage hogs is through File Explorer.
Step 1: Open File Explorer
Click the folder icon on your taskbar or press Windows + E.
Step 2: Select a Drive
Choose the drive you want to scan (usually the C: drive).
Step 3: Search by Size
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In the top-right search bar, type:
This shows files larger than 1GB. You can adjust the number depending on what you’re looking for.
Step 4: Sort Results
Click the Size column to sort from largest to smallest.
Method 2: Use Storage Settings in Windows 11
Windows 11 has a built-in Storage Settings feature that makes it super easy to spot space hogs.
Step 1: Open Settings
Press Windows + I, then click System > Storage.
Step 2: Analyze Storage
Windows automatically scans and categorizes your storage—documents, videos, apps, etc.
Step 3: Manage Large Files
Click on Show more categories to explore where the bulk of your space is going. From here, you can delete or move files.
Method 3: Use Command Prompt or PowerShell
For advanced users, the Command Prompt or PowerShell can quickly locate big files.
Command to Find Large Files
Open PowerShell and run:
This command lists the top 20 largest files on your C: drive.
Method 4: Use Third-Party Tools
Sometimes, built-in options aren’t enough. That’s where third-party apps shine.
Popular Tools for Finding Large Files
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WinDirStat – Visualizes storage with colorful charts.
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TreeSize Free – Shows folder sizes at a glance.
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SpaceSniffer – Uses blocks to represent file sizes.
These tools give you a clear picture of what’s clogging your drive.
Tips to Manage and Delete Large Files Safely
Finding big files is one thing—deleting them is another. Before you hit that Delete button, keep these tips in mind:
1. Double-Check Before Deleting
Some files may be system-related and deleting them could cause issues.
2. Move Files Instead
If the file is important (like videos or backups), move it to an external hard drive or cloud storage.
3. Empty the Recycle Bin
Deleting files doesn’t actually free up space until you empty the Recycle Bin.
Common Culprits of Large Files on Your PC
Not sure where to start? Here are a few file types that usually take up a ton of space:
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Videos and Movies – Especially in 4K.
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Game Installers – Some games are 100GB or more.
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ISO Files – Disk images from software installations.
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Old Backups – Windows restore points or outdated system backups.
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Temporary Files – Caches, logs, and temp system files.
Using Disk Cleanup for Quick Relief
Windows 11 still has the classic Disk Cleanup tool.
How to Run It
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Press Windows + S, type Disk Cleanup, and hit enter.
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Select your drive (usually C:).
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Check items like Temporary files, Recycle Bin, and Thumbnails.
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Click OK to free up space.
Set Up Storage Sense for Automatic Cleanup
If you’re tired of manually managing storage, let Storage Sense do the work.
How to Enable Storage Sense
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Go to Settings > System > Storage.
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Turn on Storage Sense.
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Set rules for deleting temporary files and emptying the Recycle Bin.
This keeps your PC clean without lifting a finger.
Organize Your Downloads Folder
The Downloads folder is often the biggest clutter zone. Old installers, documents, and videos pile up quickly. Make it a habit to:
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Sort by size and delete what you don’t need.
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Move important files to organized folders.
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Clear it out monthly.
Use OneDrive or Cloud Storage
Running low on space? Don’t delete everything—just move it to the cloud.
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OneDrive integrates seamlessly with Windows 11.
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Store photos, videos, and documents online.
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Access them anytime without hogging local storage.
Upgrade Your Storage (If Necessary)
Sometimes, no amount of deleting can fix the problem. If you constantly run out of space:
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Add an external hard drive for extra storage.
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Upgrade to a bigger SSD for faster performance.
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Use a NAS (Network Attached Storage) for backup and sharing.
Prevent Large File Clutter in the Future
Think of storage like your closet. If you keep piling stuff in without organizing, it’ll overflow. To prevent future headaches:
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Regularly clean up files.
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Delete apps you don’t use.
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Store media files on external drives.
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Enable automatic cleanup tools.
Final Thoughts
Finding the biggest files on your Windows 11 PC doesn’t have to be a chore. Whether you use File Explorer, Storage Settings, or third-party tools, you’ll quickly uncover what’s eating up your space. Once you free up room, your PC will run smoother, and you won’t have to stress about low storage warnings anymore.
FAQs
1. What’s the easiest way to find large files in Windows 11?
The quickest method is using File Explorer’s search function with the size: filter.
2. Can I delete all large files I find?
Not always—some might be system files. Stick to personal files like videos, games, or installers.
3. Are third-party tools safe to use?
Yes, as long as you download from official websites. Tools like WinDirStat and TreeSize are reliable.
4. How much free space should I keep on my PC?
Ideally, you should keep at least 10-15% of your drive free for smooth performance.
5. What if my storage keeps filling up?
If you’re constantly running out of space, consider upgrading your hard drive or moving files to external/cloud storage.