If your computer has multiple partitions that you no longer need, deleting one can free up space and simplify storage management. Whether you want to remove an old recovery partition, merge partitions, or clean up unused drives, Windows 11 makes the process straightforward.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you different ways to delete a partition in Windows 11 safely.
What Is a Partition in Windows 11?
A partition is a section of your hard drive or SSD that’s divided into separate storage areas. For example, your PC may have:
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C: drive – for system files and programs.
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D: drive or E: drive – for personal data, recovery, or OEM tools.
Sometimes partitions become unnecessary—like after installing a new drive or upgrading your OS. Deleting them helps reclaim storage space.
Important Things to Know Before Deleting a Partition
Before you proceed, keep these points in mind:
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Back up data – Deleting a partition erases all files stored on it.
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System partitions – You cannot delete the main system (C:) partition while Windows is running.
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Recovery partitions – Removing these may prevent you from restoring your PC to factory settings.
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Unallocated space – After deletion, the space becomes unallocated and can be merged with other partitions.
Method 1: Delete a Partition Using Disk Management
Disk Management is the built-in tool for managing partitions in Windows 11.
Steps:
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Press Windows + X and select Disk Management.
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In the list of drives, locate the partition you want to delete.
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Right-click on the partition → Select Delete Volume.
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A warning will appear. Click Yes to confirm.
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The space will now show as Unallocated.
💡 You can right-click on another partition and choose Extend Volume to merge the unallocated space.
Method 2: Delete a Partition Using Command Prompt (Diskpart)
If Disk Management doesn’t work, you can use the command-line tool Diskpart.
Steps:
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Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as Administrator.
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Type the following commands one by one:
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Replace X with your disk number.
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Replace Y with the partition number.
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The partition will be deleted instantly.
⚠️ Be careful when using Diskpart—it deletes partitions permanently.
Method 3: Delete a Partition During Windows 11 Installation
If you’re reinstalling Windows 11, you can delete partitions during setup.
Steps:
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Boot your PC from the Windows 11 installation USB.
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On the Where do you want to install Windows? screen, you’ll see all partitions.
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Select the partition you want to delete → Click Delete.
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Confirm when prompted.
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Choose the unallocated space for installation or create new partitions.
Method 4: Use Third-Party Partition Tools
If Windows tools are limited, third-party software like EaseUS Partition Master, MiniTool Partition Wizard, or AOMEI Partition Assistant can help. These tools provide:
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Easier UI for managing partitions.
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Options to merge, resize, or clone partitions.
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Safer handling for complex drive setups.
What to Do After Deleting a Partition
Once you’ve deleted a partition, you have two main options:
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Merge it with another partition using Disk Management’s Extend Volume.
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Leave it as unallocated space and create a new partition later.
Common Issues and Fixes
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Can’t delete system partition? → You cannot remove the partition where Windows is installed. Use a clean install instead.
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Delete option is greyed out? → This often happens with OEM recovery partitions. Use Diskpart or a third-party tool.
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Accidentally deleted a partition? → Use recovery software like EaseUS Data Recovery to restore files (if not overwritten).
Final Thoughts
Deleting a partition in Windows 11 is easy with built-in tools like Disk Management and Diskpart. Just remember to back up your data before deleting anything, since all files will be erased. Once deleted, you can use the freed space to extend another drive or create a new partition as needed.
FAQs
1. Can I delete the C: drive partition in Windows 11?
No, you cannot delete the system partition while Windows is running. You’d need a clean install from boot media.
2. Will deleting a partition speed up my PC?
Not directly, but it can free up space and simplify storage management.
3. Can I delete a recovery partition?
Yes, but you’ll lose factory reset options. Back up recovery files first.
4. What happens after deleting a partition?
It becomes unallocated space, which you can merge with another partition or leave unused.
5. Is it safe to use third-party partition software?
Yes, as long as you use trusted tools. They often provide more flexibility than Windows tools.