Step-by-Step Guide to Checking Hard Drive Space

Windows 11 gives you several ways to check your storage — from simple to detailed. Let’s go through them one by one.

Table of Contents

Method 1: Using File Explorer (Quick and Easy)

This is the fastest way to see your available space.

Step 1: Open File Explorer

Press Windows + E on your keyboard.
Or click the File Explorer icon from the taskbar.

Step 2: Go to This PC

In the left sidebar, click This PC.

Step 3: Check Storage

You’ll see all your drives listed (C:, D:, etc.).
Under each drive, you’ll see a progress bar showing how much space is used and free.

Method 2: Using Windows 11 Settings (Detailed View)

Want more information and a breakdown of what’s using space?

Step 1: Open Settings

Press Windows + I to open Settings.

Step 2: Go to System > Storage

In the left menu, click System, then choose Storage.

Step 3: View Storage Breakdown

Here, you’ll see how much space is used and what’s taking up space — apps, documents, temporary files, etc.

Method 3: Using Disk Properties

Another quick way to check storage in detail.

Open File Explorer and go to This PC.
Right-click the drive you want to check (usually Local Disk (C:)).
Select Properties.
You’ll see a pie chart showing used and free space.

Method 4: Using Command Prompt or PowerShell (Advanced Users)

If you like using commands, here’s a quick method:

Press Windows + S, type cmd or PowerShell, and hit Enter.
Type:

Press Enter.
You’ll see free space and total size for all drives in bytes.

Tips to Free Up Space if You’re Running Low

If you discover your hard drive is almost full, here’s how to reclaim space:

Delete Temporary Files: Go to Settings > System > Storage > Temporary files and clean them.
Uninstall Unused Programs: Remove apps you no longer need.
Empty the Recycle Bin: Files still take up space until you empty it.
Move Large Files to External Drive: Store videos, photos, or backups elsewhere.
Use Storage Sense: Enable automatic cleanup in Settings > Storage Sense.

Why You Should Keep at Least 10–15% Free Space

Windows uses free space for system processes, paging files, and updates. If your drive is too full:

Your PC might feel sluggish.
Windows updates may fail to install.
Apps may crash unexpectedly.

Keeping at least 10–15% free is a good rule of thumb.

Conclusion

Checking your hard drive space in Windows 11 is simple — and it’s something you should do regularly. Whether you use File Explorer, Settings, or Command Prompt, knowing how much storage you have helps you avoid slowdowns and errors. And if space is running low, you now know how to free it up quickly.

FAQs

Q1: Can I check hard drive space without opening File Explorer?
Yes — you can use Settings (System > Storage) or Command Prompt for a quick check.

Q2: Does low disk space affect performance?
Absolutely. A full drive can make Windows slow and even prevent updates from installing.

Q3: How can I see which folders are taking up the most space?
Go to Settings > System > Storage, then click Show more categories for a detailed breakdown.

Q4: Can I add more storage to my Windows 11 PC?
Yes — you can add an external hard drive, replace your internal drive with a bigger one, or use cloud storage.

Q5: How do I set up automatic storage cleanup?
Enable Storage Sense under Settings > System > Storage and configure it to delete temporary files automatically.