Recommended Free Tools
You can reclaim Galaxy phone storage without uninstalling apps by reviewing large files, Downloads and duplicates, clearing selected app caches, or moving files you want to keep to compatible external storage. The 10 GB in the headline is an individual reported result, not a typical or guaranteed amount: the steps below do not have a fixed yield, and Samsung’s support instructions do not quantify how much a particular phone will recover.
How do I free up space on my Samsung Galaxy without deleting apps?
First check what is using space, then review files before deleting anything. Menu names vary by model and software version; Samsung’s US guidance describes the storage view under Device care or Battery and device care.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
- Inspect storage: Open Settings > Device care (or Battery and device care) > Storage. Review the categories and look for large or unnecessary items.
- Review files in My Files: Check Downloads and open Analyze storage > Duplicate files. Select duplicates only after confirming which copies you want to keep. Samsung says Duplicate files appears only when duplicates are present.
- Clear selected app caches: For an app where cached files may be expendable, go to Settings > Apps > [app] > Storage > Clear cache. This does not uninstall the app.
- Move files you want to retain: Use My Files to transfer large photos, videos or other files to compatible external storage or a computer. Confirm the destination copy is present and opens before deleting the internal copy.
- Check the result: Return to the same Storage screen and compare available space with your starting figure. That before-and-after change is the result for your phone; it should not be treated as a promise for another Galaxy.
Items deleted through My Files may go to Trash rather than being removed immediately. Depending on the model, they can remain there for up to 30 days. Check Trash if the available-space figure does not change as expected.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →What is Other storage on my Samsung phone?
“Other” is a category, not one folder of disposable files. Samsung says it can include app data, system files, cached data and temporary files, and that the category cannot be deleted directly as a whole. Samsung Support UK stated on 4 August 2026: “The data contained in the ‘Other’ storage category cannot be deleted directly from your device.”
#1 Best Overall
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
You may still reclaim some space by reviewing individual apps and files, but avoid trying to remove system items simply because they appear under Other.
How do I clear cache on a Galaxy phone?
Clear cache one app at a time: Settings > Apps > [app] > Storage > Clear cache. Samsung’s US instructions note that screens and steps can differ by software version and app. Choose an app selectively rather than assuming every cache needs to be cleared.
Rank #2
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Clear cache is not the same as Clear data
Cache consists of temporary files. Clear data resets the app and can remove its personal settings or saved app information; it may also sign you out or erase information stored only on the device. Read the app’s implications before choosing that control. Samsung says clearing cache for every app at once would require a factory reset, which is destructive and not a routine storage-cleanup method.
Can I move photos and videos from my Galaxy phone to external storage?
Yes, if your phone supports the connection and the destination has room. In My Files, select the items and use the available move or copy option to send them to connected external storage. Samsung also documents transferring files to a PC. SD-card support varies by Galaxy model; for a USB-C storage device, check that the connector and device support the transfer you need.
Rank #3
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
If you move rather than copy, verify the file at its destination and make sure it opens before removing the original. A connected drive or card only creates more available phone storage after files have actually been transferred off the phone.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which Device Care cleanup should I use?
Use Storage to inspect files and categories. Do not confuse it with Memory or Clean now: Samsung describes that function as stopping background apps to free RAM, not as reclaiming permanent file storage.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Rank #4
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
