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Windows does not have one universal cache to clear. To reclaim disk space, start with Settings > System > Storage and review the cleanup options. To troubleshoot a specific feature, reset only its cache—for example, use wsreset.exe for Microsoft Store. Clearing files may help when storage is low, but it is not a guaranteed way to make a PC faster.
First check whether low storage is the problem
Open File Explorer > This PC and check the free space on the Windows drive, usually C:. Microsoft notes that a PC running out of storage may become slower or have trouble installing Windows updates. If the drive has plenty of room, clearing temporary files might still help with a specific app or storage issue, but it may not produce a noticeable speed increase. See Microsoft’s guidance on freeing drive space.
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Which Windows cleanup method should you use?
| Method | Best for | How it runs | What to watch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary files or Cleanup recommendations | Reviewing Windows-identified files and choosing what to remove | Manual | Read the categories and select only what you intend to delete. |
| Storage Sense | Recurring cleanup of the system drive | Can run automatically | Check the rules for Downloads and cloud files before enabling scheduled cleanup. |
| Disk Cleanup | Choosing additional temporary or system-file categories | Manual | Review each category, especially system-file options. |
wsreset.exe |
Microsoft Store cache troubleshooting | Manual, targeted | It resets Store cache; it is not a general Windows cache cleaner. |
| Delivery Optimization Files in Disk Cleanup | Reclaiming space from update and content delivery files | Usually cleared automatically; manual option available | Microsoft says the cache clears itself after a short time or when it grows too large. |
Review and remove temporary files in Settings
- Open Settings > System > Storage.
- Open Temporary files and review the categories Windows lists.
- Select only the categories you want removed, then choose the on-screen remove or cleanup control.
Windows 11 may also show Cleanup recommendations, which can group temporary files, large or unused files, cloud-synced files, and unused apps. It displays space estimates for that device. Category names and navigation wording can vary by Windows release; use the descriptions shown on your PC before confirming removal. Microsoft’s Storage settings overview describes the available categories.
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Set up Storage Sense for recurring cleanup
Storage Sense can automatically remove unnecessary temporary files and Recycle Bin contents. Microsoft says it works on the system drive only, usually C:. With default settings, it runs when the device is low on disk space and cleans unnecessary temporary files. See Microsoft’s Storage Sense instructions for settings and behavior.
#1 Best Overall
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
- Go to Settings > System > Storage and open Storage Sense.
- Review the schedule and the rules for temporary files and the Recycle Bin.
- Check the Downloads and cloud-content options before turning on automatic cleanup or changing their rules.
- Turn Storage Sense on or run it manually using the control shown in Settings.
Downloads and cloud content are not automatically managed by default. If you configure cloud-file management, files marked Always keep on this device are exempt. Review the options carefully if you keep important files in Downloads or use cloud-synced folders.
Use Disk Cleanup for selected file categories
- Search Start for Disk Cleanup and open it.
- Choose the drive to clean, usually C:, and review the listed file categories and their descriptions.
- Select the categories you want removed and confirm.
- If you need additional system-file categories, select Clean up system files, choose the drive again if prompted, and review the expanded list before confirming.
Previous Windows installation files can affect your ability to return to a prior Windows installation. Do not remove them casually; first decide whether you may need that rollback option. For Microsoft’s instructions on Disk Cleanup and other cleanup choices, see Free up drive space in Windows.
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- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
Reset Microsoft Store cache only for a Store-specific issue
- Press Windows key + R to open Run.
- Enter
wsreset.exeand select OK. - A blank Command Prompt window should appear and close after about ten seconds; Microsoft says the Store then opens.
This command targets Microsoft Store cache. It is not a general-purpose Windows cache reset. Microsoft’s drive-space guidance includes the Store reset procedure.
Clear Delivery Optimization files only if you need the space
Delivery Optimization helps deliver Windows Update, Store, and other Microsoft content. Windows usually clears its cache automatically after a short time or when it occupies too much disk space. If you specifically need to reclaim that space, open Disk Cleanup, choose the Windows drive, and select Delivery Optimization Files if it appears. Microsoft explains the cache behavior and manual option in its Delivery Optimization documentation.
Rank #3
- WINDOWS 11 | STABLE PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 system, this laptop delivers stable performance for everyday computing tasks. It supports web browsing, online learning, document editing, email communication, and basic office work with optimized power efficiency, providing a practical and reliable experience for essential daily use for daily use.
- 15.6” FHD IPS DISPLAY: Features a 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display with narrow bezels, offering wider viewing angles and clearer image details compared to standard panels. The improved screen-to-body ratio enhances visual experience for study, reading, document work, and video playback, making it suitable for both productivity and entertainment use.
- 4GB DDR4 + 128GB eMMC STORAGE: Equipped with 4GB DDR4 memory and 128GB eMMC storage for everyday basics such as browsing, documents, email, and online learning platforms. The built-in TF card slot supports storage expansion up to 1TB, giving you more flexibility for files, photos, videos, and daily documents. TF card not included.
- CONNECTIVITY & PORTS: Includes 1× TF card slot, 2× USB 3.2 Gen1 ports, and 2× full-featured Type-C ports (USB 3.2 Gen1). The Type-C ports support data transfer, charging, and video output, enabling flexible connection with external devices such as monitors, storage, and peripherals for daily work and study use.
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN | ONLINE COMMUNICATION: Designed with a slim, portable profile, this laptop is easy to carry for school, commuting, and travel. A built-in 1MP front camera supports online classes, video meetings, remote communication, and everyday conferencing. The 3300mAh battery works with the low-power system design to support practical daily use, while thermal optimization helps maintain quieter operation during extended tasks.
If Windows is still slow after cleanup
Cache removal is one possible maintenance step, not a performance fix for every cause. Microsoft also identifies startup apps, outdated software, excessive open apps or browser tabs, background activity, malware, and hardware limits as factors that can affect performance. Check the likely cause rather than repeatedly deleting caches; an older PC may not improve significantly through cleanup alone. See Microsoft’s performance troubleshooting tips.
Quick Recap
- If the system drive is nearly full, review storage categories and remove files you recognize and no longer need.
- If one feature is misbehaving, use its specific troubleshooting steps rather than a blanket cleanup.
- If storage is not constrained, inspect startup apps, running programs, updates, and other performance factors.
- If you remain short on disk space, moving personal files to external storage is an option; it does not clear cache by itself or guarantee faster performance. Microsoft lists connecting external storage among its low-space remedies.
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