Showing folder size in Windows 10 can be a bit tricky, as the default settings do not display folder sizes directly in File Explorer. However, with a few tweaks and the right tools, you can easily see the size of any folder on your system. This guide will walk you through the steps to achieve this, including both built-in methods and third-party software options.
How to Show Folder Size in Windows 10
To start, you’ll need to know how to find out the size of a folder using Windows 10’s built-in features and some additional tools. These steps will make it easier to manage your disk space by showing you how much space each folder is taking up.
Step 1: Open File Explorer
The first step to showing folder size is to open File Explorer.
To do this, simply click on the folder icon in your taskbar or press the Windows key + E on your keyboard.
Step 2: Navigate to the Folder
Next, navigate to the folder whose size you want to check.
Just browse through your directories until you find the folder you’re interested in. You can double-click to open folders and navigate deeper into your file structure.
Step 3: Right-Click the Folder
Right-click on the folder you’re interested in.
This will bring up a context menu with various options. Make sure you right-click directly on the folder name.
Step 4: Select Properties
From the context menu, select "Properties."
This option is usually at the bottom of the menu. Clicking it will open a new window displaying various properties of the folder.
Step 5: View Folder Size
In the Properties window, look for the "Size" and "Size on disk" entries.
These entries will show you the total size of the folder and its contents. The size may take a moment to calculate, especially for larger folders.
After you’ve completed these steps, you’ll be able to see the size of the folder you selected. This can help you manage your storage more effectively by identifying large folders that may need to be cleaned up or moved.
Tips for Showing Folder Size in Windows 10
- Use third-party tools like WinDirStat or TreeSize Free for more detailed folder size information.
- Refresh the folder size periodically to ensure you have up-to-date information, especially if you’re adding or removing files.
- Create a habit of checking folder sizes to maintain a healthy amount of free space on your hard drive.
- If you often need to see folder sizes, consider adding a third-party tool that integrates directly with File Explorer.
- Use Disk Cleanup tools to help manage larger folders and free up space on your drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I show folder size directly in File Explorer?
By default, Windows 10 doesn’t show folder sizes in File Explorer. However, third-party tools can add this functionality.
What third-party tools can I use?
Popular tools for displaying folder size include WinDirStat and TreeSize Free, both of which offer detailed views of folder sizes.
How do these tools integrate with File Explorer?
Many third-party tools integrate seamlessly with File Explorer by adding context menu options and additional columns.
Is there a performance impact when using these tools?
Scanning large directories can take time and system resources, but most tools are optimized to minimize performance impact.
Can I automate folder size checks?
Some tools offer scheduling options, allowing you to automate regular checks of your folder sizes.
Summary
- Open File Explorer.
- Navigate to the folder.
- Right-click the folder.
- Select Properties.
- View folder size.
Conclusion
Managing your disk space effectively in Windows 10 requires knowing the sizes of your folders. While the operating system does not display folder sizes directly in File Explorer by default, you can easily find this information by using the Properties menu or third-party tools like WinDirStat and TreeSize Free.
Understanding how to show folder size in Windows 10 can help keep your system organized and running smoothly. Whether you use built-in features or additional software, these methods allow you to quickly identify and manage large folders, ensuring you always have enough free space.
If you’re interested in learning more about optimizing your Windows 10 experience, consider exploring other topics like disk cleanup and file management. And remember, being proactive about managing your storage can prevent a lot of headaches down the line. So, go ahead and start checking those folder sizes today!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.