Use WhatsApp’s Storage and data > Manage storage screen to find and delete selected media while keeping the conversation. Back up your chats first, review files before removing them, and avoid the option to clear all messages if you want to preserve message history.
Check what is using WhatsApp storage
- Open WhatsApp and go to Settings. On iPhone, WhatsApp’s instructions start by tapping your profile picture; on Android, start in Settings.
- Tap Storage and data, then Manage storage. Menu wording can vary slightly by platform or app version.
- Check the amount shown at the top, then review large items and media grouped by chat. If a sort option is available, choose Largest to inspect the biggest files first. WhatsApp’s official walkthrough is in How to free up storage on WhatsApp.
Review the files before selecting them. Removing a file from WhatsApp does not necessarily remove every copy saved elsewhere on the phone, so the storage released may not match the file’s displayed size. WhatsApp and the phone’s operating system may also report different storage totals because they calculate usage differently.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Delete selected media, not the conversation
In Manage storage, select only the files you want to remove, then use the delete control shown in the app. You can also review media from an individual chat: open the chat, tap its name, and go to Media, Links, and Docs to select items. WhatsApp’s instructions for that view are at How to delete media.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsDeleting selected media removes those items from WhatsApp, but another saved copy may remain on the device. If storage does not fall as expected, check for duplicate copies in the phone’s photos or files apps and remove them separately if you no longer need them.
#1 Best Overall
- USB-C 2-in-1 storage OTG: The Lexar JumpDrive Dual Drive D40E features USB Type-A and Type-C connectors in a slim, portable form factor for easy device compatibility
- Transfer speeds up to 100MB/s: Based on internal testing, performance may vary depending upon the host device, interface, and usage conditions. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes
- Plug and Play: Widely compatible with USB Type-C smartphones, tablets, laptops, Macs, and traditional Type-A devices, no software installation required. The 360° swivel design allows for easy switching between connectors without the hassle of losing a cap
- Durable & Compact: The Lexar D40E USB memory stick features a metal enclosure, withstands temperatures from 0° to 50° C (32°F to 122°F), and is lightweight at 26g with dimensions of 70.4 x 16.9 x 11.7mm
- Security & Warranty: Securely protects files using an advanced security software solution with 256-bit AES encryption. Backed by a Lexar 3-year limited warranty
Clear a chat’s media while keeping its messages
If one conversation accounts for much of the space, use WhatsApp’s chat-clearing controls and choose the option that removes media only. Where offered, use the file-type selections to control what is cleared. Clearing a chat does not delete the chat from the Chats tab or remove you from a group.
Do not choose “Clear all messages” if your goal is to keep the conversation history. Clearing messages and clearing media are different actions, and WhatsApp says it cannot recover deleted messages for you. See How to delete messages for WhatsApp’s deletion guidance.
Rank #2
- 2 in 1: USB C + USB 3.0, 32GB usb c flash drive has dual ports, usb 3.0 port is applied to all devices which have usb 3.0 interface and usb c port is widely used in all Android smartphones with OTG function
- High Speed USB 3.0: Read speed up to 90 MB/s, Write speed up to 30 MB/s, the speed of USB 3.0 interface is faster than USB 2.0, save time to wait, increases work productivity. Note: Speed will be limited if you use the USB key in the USB 2.0 interface
- Large Compatibility: The USB 3.0 Connector is compatible with USB 3.0 & USB 2.0 backward USB 1.1 devices, such as Laptop, Desktop, Car Audio, Tablet, TV, Speakers, Projector. USB-C port is compatible with all Android Smartphones
- Expand Storage: Good performance in storing, transferring and sharing digital data with families, friends, colleagues, customers. It can expand the capacity of smartphone, you can watch movies or share pictures when you go on vacation with your family
- Note: Make sure your smartphone is equipped with OTG function and need to open OTG function in Settings when you plug memory stick, then you can transfer easily data bewteen different devices
Back up before deleting, then check phone storage
Back up your chats before removing content. WhatsApp’s iPhone guidance recommends a backup before deleting; its Android instructions recommend backing up chats to a Google Account before removing phone content. A backup is a precaution, not a guarantee that every deleted item can be restored.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
After cleanup, check available space in your phone’s storage settings. When the phone is critically low on free space, WhatsApp may not work properly and may ask you to free storage. If Manage storage is not enough, remove old or unused media from the device itself or clear the WhatsApp cache using the phone’s app-storage controls. WhatsApp lists these as troubleshooting steps in Fixing issues on WhatsApp. Do not clear WhatsApp app data as a substitute for cache cleanup.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- USB-C STORAGE ON THE GO: This sleek drive is supported by Samsung NAND flash and is incredibly compact to fit in the palm of your hand; Count on reliable performance and fast transfer speeds while staying compact
- PERFORMANCE WITH SPEED: No need to choose between performance and reliability; Experience a fast, powerful flash drive that transfers 4GB files in just 11 seconds with up to 400MB/s USB 3.2 Gen 1 read speeds and is backward compatible with USB 3.0/2.0
- MODERN MEETS ICONIC: The ultra-sleek USB-C drive looks as good as it performs; Featuring a reversible plug, the Type-C inserts into your devices seamlessly every time; Transfer large files with style and ease
- ALWAYS CONNECTED: USB-C is compatible across devices, including laptops, tablets, phones and cameras, with enough space for 63,730 photos or maximum 12 hours of 4K video; With up to 256GB of storage space, this pocket-sized thumb drive comes in handy wherever you go
- TOUGH & TRUSTED: Files stay secure, no matter the terrain; Samsung's flash memory technology makes the Type-C a trustworthy drive to store your valuable data; It's waterproof, shock-proof, magnet-proof, temperature-proof, and X-ray-proof body, plus it's backed by a 5-year limited warranty
Rank #4
- 2-in-1 Dual Design: Features both USB-C and USB-A connectors, making it compatible with phones, tablets, MacBooks, PCs, and laptops-no adapter needed
- Wide Compatibility: Works seamlessly with USB A and USB C devices, ensuring reliable file transfers across smartphones, computers, and more
- Ample Storage Options: Available in 16GB/32GB/64GB/128GB providing plenty of space for photos, videos, music, and documents
- Portable & Lightweight: Compact and durable design for travel, school, or daily use-take your files anywhere
- Plug-and-Play Convenience: No software or drivers required; simply insert into USB-C or USB-A ports and start transferring files instantly
Rank #3
- USB-C 2-in-1 storage OTG: The Lexar JumpDrive Dual Drive D40E features USB Type-A and Type-C connectors in a slim, portable form factor for easy device compatibility
- Transfer speeds up to 100MB/s: Based on internal testing, performance may vary depending upon the host device, interface, and usage conditions. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes
- Plug and Play: Widely compatible with USB Type-C smartphones, tablets, laptops, Macs, and traditional Type-A devices, no software installation required. The 360° swivel design allows for easy switching between connectors without the hassle of losing a cap
- Durable & Compact: The Lexar D40E USB memory stick features a metal enclosure, withstands temperatures from 0° to 50° C (32°F to 122°F), and is lightweight at 26g with dimensions of 70.4 x 16.9 x 11.7mm
- Security & Warranty: Securely protects files using an advanced security software solution with 256-bit AES encryption. Backed by a Lexar 3-year limited warranty
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.
