How to Check Folder Size in Windows 11: 3 Easy Methods (Step-by-Step Guide 2025)

Introduction

Windows 11 has enhanced the user experience with its new visual changes and features. But a common problem that every user faces is “how to check folder size in Windows 11.” File Explorer does not show the folder size by default, which makes it difficult to manage disk space efficiently.

If you know which folders are taking up the most space, you can optimize your storage by deleting or moving unnecessary files. This is especially useful for those with an SSD or a PC with limited storage.

In this guide, we’ll cover 3 easy methods that will help you check folder size:

1. File Explorer Properties—built-in and simple method
2. Storage Settings – category-wise disk usage overview
3. Third-Party Tools – graphical and fast scanning

Each method is explained step-by-step, accompanied by screenshots and tips and tricks to help you efficiently monitor and manage folder sizes.

Checking folder sizes allows you to:

• Efficiently manage disk space
• Identify and delete large folders
• Improve backup and storage planning
• Help with SSD/HDD optimization

Why Folder Size is Important in Windows 11

Checking folder size is important because it helps you manage storage and improve system performance. Windows 11 users often store videos, software, games, and large documents, which quickly fill up storage. If you don’t know the folder size, unnecessary data can slow down your system.

Benefits of knowing folder size:

• Managing storage efficiently
• Deleting unnecessary large folders
• Planning backup and cloud storage
• Improving system performance and speed

Method 1 – Using File Explorer Properties

The simplest method to check folder size in Windows 11 is File Explorer Properties. This is a built-in tool and is best for beginners.

Steps:

1. Open File Explorer (Win + E).
2. Navigate to the folder whose size you want to check.
3. Right-click on the folder → select Properties.
4. View Size and Size on disk in the Properties window. This shows the folder’s total space.
5. For multiple folders, select them and right-click → Properties → View total size.

Pros:

• Built-in tool, no need for extra software
• Accurate size information

Cons:

• Calculation may be slow for large folders.
• Graphical overview not given

Tips for Faster Calculation:

• Disable thumbnail previews
• Close unnecessary apps in the background.

Method 2 – Using Storage Settings

Storage Settings in Windows 11 provides a quick overview of which file categories and folders are taking up the most space. This is a simple and easy method for beginners.

Steps:

1. Open Settings → System → Storage.
2. Click Show more categories or Storage usage.
3. You’ll see folder sizes by category (Apps, Documents, Videos, etc.).
4. Click on any category to view detailed folder size information.

Pros:

• Quick overview
• Beginner-friendly
• Shows data by storage category

Cons:

• Less detailed for individual folders
• Hidden/system folders are not shown

Bonus Tips:

• Enables Storage Sense for automatic cleanup
• Delete large or temporary files regularly

Method 3 – Using Third-Party Tools

If you need a fast and graphical view, you can use third-party tools. Windows 11, by default, does not show folder sizes.

Popular Tools:

• WinDirStat
• TreeSize Free
• Folder Size Explorer

Steps:

1. Download the tool from the official website.
2. Install the tool on your Windows 11 PC.
3. Open the tool and select a drive/folder to scan.
4. A tool with a color-coded visual map will show folder sizes.

Pros:

• Fast scanning
• Graphical overview
• Advanced features like filtering & exporting

Cons:

• Will have to download extra software
• Admin rights may be required

Security Tips:

• Download it from official websites
• Pirated software should be avoided.

Tips & Tricks for Managing Folder Size

• Sort folders by size in File Explorer
• Archive old files to an external drive or cloud storage
• Delete duplicate files
• Clean Downloads and Temp folders regularly
• Use the Windows Disk Cleanup tool for automatic cleanup

Common Issues While Checking Folder Size

• Folder sizes are not updating (cache issue)
• Permissions issues
• Hidden/system files are not included
• Calculation may be slow for large folders

FAQs

Q1: Can I check the size of multiple folders at once?

Ans: Yes, using Properties or third-party tools like WinDirStat.

Q2: Does checking folder size slow down my PC?

Ans: It may take a while for large folders.

Q3: Are third-party tools safe?

Ans: Yes, downloading from official websites is safe.

Q4: Can I see the default folder size in File Explorer?

Ans: No, Windows 11 doesn’t show the default. Use Properties/Settings/Tools.

Q5: Can I automate folder size reports?

Ans: Yes, it’s possible with scripts or third-party tools.

Q6: Do I need admin rights to check folder size?

Ans: Yes, admin rights may be required to check the size of some system or protected folders.

Q7: Are hidden files included in the folder size?

Ans: No, by default, hidden files are not included. You can include them by enabling “Show hidden files” in Properties.

Q8: Is the folder size check process the same for both SSD and HDD?

Ans: Yes, the folder size check process in Windows 11 is the same for both SSD and HDD.

Q9: Can checking large folders cause the PC to freeze?

Ans: If the folder size is very large (GBs or TBs), the calculation may take some time and cause a temporary system slowdown.

Q10: Is it necessary to regularly monitor folder size?

Ans: Yes, regular monitoring allows you to manage disk space and optimize system performance by deleting unnecessary files.

Conclusion

There are 3 main methods to check folder size in Windows 11:

• File Explorer Properties – simple, accurate, best for beginners
• Storage Settings – quick overview, category-wise storage (Microsoft Official Guide)
• Third-Party Tools – fast, visual, advanced analysis

The method should be chosen according to your needs. Regular folder size monitoring makes disk space management, performance improvement, and organized storage possible.

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