Windows 10 does not show folder sizes in the File Explorer list, but there are quick ways to check. Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) now run until October 12, 2027. The same methods work in Windows 11.
Quick Answer
Right-click the folder, choose Properties and read Size on the General tab. You can also hover over a folder to see a tooltip with its size, if tooltips are on.
How to View the Size of a Folder in Windows 10
- Open File Explorer.
- Find the folder you want to check.
- Right-click it and choose Properties.
- On the General tab, read Size (the data) and Size on disk (space used on the drive).
- Wait a moment for large folders; the numbers climb while Windows counts.
- For an overview of the whole drive, open Settings, System, Storage.
Ways to Check Folder Size
| Method | Best for |
|---|---|
| Right-click, Properties | Exact size of one folder |
| Hover tooltip | Quick glance (small folders) |
| Select several folders, Properties | Total of a selection |
| Settings, System, Storage | Which categories use the most space |
| Details pane | Size of selected files, not folders |
Troubleshooting
- No tooltip: open View, Options, View tab and turn on Display file size information in folder tips.
- Size on disk differs from Size: files take up whole clusters on the drive, and compressed or cloud-only files can make it smaller.
- Access denied on system folders: some sizes cannot be fully counted without administrator rights.
- Need space back? See cleaning up Windows 10 and ways to free up storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does File Explorer not show a folder size column?
The Size column only shows file sizes. Calculating every folder would slow browsing.
What is the difference between Size and Size on disk?
Size is the actual data. Size on disk is the space it takes on the drive, which is often slightly larger.
Does it count hidden files?
Yes. Properties counts all files, including hidden ones.
Is it the same in Windows 11?
Yes. Right-click, Properties works the same way.
Summary
- Right-click the folder.
- Choose Properties.
- Read Size and Size on disk.
- Use tooltips for a quick look.
- Use Storage settings for a drive overview.
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.
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