5 Ways to Expand Storage on your Phone and Tablet

Today, most phones and tablets run out of storage more easily due to better-quality games, photos and videos. Most popular games and editing apps can take up over 1GB, along with unwanted videos, pictures and other files.

It all starts with deleting unwanted videos, photos and other files. Sometimes, small videos can take up storage as they all add up eventually; These methods can help you save and expand your storage. 

1. Clear Cache Data

The cache is where data and other files are temporarily stored. Small amounts of storage across different apps are taken up by cache data. It's best to delete this cache every once in a while. 

On Android, go to the settings, then “Battery and device care” and click on “Optimize now” 

This will clear the cache data in your phone and various applications, which will free up storage.

2. Delete Unwanted Files and Applications 

Re-visit all of your videos, photos, and other documents. Take a look at older files, and decide if you still want them. In the settings in battery and device care, you can see what's taking up storage, then sort them by size and/or date. 

Whenever you delete an item, it goes to the trash; remember to empty it once you're sure you don't need the items.

If you use WhatsApp or any file and media sharing apps, there may be GIFs, videos and photos, that are taking up storage.

Also, check the apps and games you haven't used in months; chances are… there are apps or games you don't use anymore.

3. Delete App Data if necessary

Deleting data on apps will reset them, but it can free a lot of storage.  

However, any progress you have made in these apps and games will be gone. E.g. If you were at level 100 in a game, it would reset back to level 0. Before doing this, think about the app and game.

After a while, I usually clear data on my editing app, once I have finished editing the video and it's posted. 

You can clear data on apps if the progress is saved to your account or if all of your items are safely backed up.

Speaking of backing up, if you have a lot of videos, photos, documents and other files that you want but are taking up storage, there are 3 other ways that you can back up your files and expand your storage by spending extra.

Remember to always buy these products from trusted sources. 

4. Micro SD Card

A Micro SD Card is a storage device that you can insert into your phone or tablet to increase storage. 

However, there are different types of SD cards, make sure you check your device manual or research what card your device is compatible with.

I have used a Micro SD card on my tablet, and it worked well. However, FlashDrives tend to be cheaper, so I usually go with those. 

5. FlashDrive 

Flash Drives allow you to store your videos, photos, documents and other files. You can connect the USB Flash Drive to your phone or tablet using a USB to USB-C adapter, while a USB-C Flash Drive can connect directly to your device. 

In the files app, select the videos, photos, and other files you want. Click on “move” then go back to the “FlashDrive’s name”. In the flash drive, you can create a folder or just click on “move here”.

Flash Drive Recommendations:

Flash Drives:

SanDisk USB FlashDrive 

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This is a USB Flash Drive by SanDisk that is available in 16GB - 512GB; however, to use with a tablet or phone, you’ll need an adapter.

SanDisk USB-C FlashDrive 
 View on Amazon 

This one is a USB-C Flash Drive by SanDisk, also available in 16GB - 512GB; these one do not require an adapter because you can plug it into any device (phone or tablet) with a USB-C port.

I usually get flash drives from SanDisk, and they work well. These 2 are great and durable for long-lasting. Store them in a memorable place to not lose them.

Adapter Recommendations:

Adapter (4 Slots)
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I use an adapter with 4 slots so I can connect other things while using my tablet, like a keyboard and mouse, etc.  

Adapter (1 Slot)
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The one slot by Jefux adapter works for just plugging in the flash drive or any USB device to your USB-C phone or tablet. It also comes with an extra one.

5. Cloud Storage

With Cloud Storage, you can store your files online for a set price. This can be more expensive. However, some people use Cloud storage because it can't be lost or damaged.

If you choose the Google Photos or Google Drive free version, make sure you are not using the Google account for anything else, because that 15GB free storage is used for email and documents as well and can run out quickly if so. 

PCloud is also a good option. Cloud storage can be expensive to purchase but it's a great option if you are worried about losing or breaking the SD Card or FlashDrive.

Prices vary depending on the brand and amount you want. Make sure you create a strong password and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) as well, to Keep your data safe.

For more sensitive information like taxes, etc use something like Boxcryptor to help encrypt it before adding it to a cloud storage. Boxcrytor will allow you to add a password to sensitive files and documents, adding that extra layer. The free version should work for most of your needs.

Using these methods or a combination of them should help you save and expand your storage. Although it can take extra cost to expand, it can be very beneficial in the long term.

I usually make a lot of Minecraft YouTube videos on my tablet, which only has 64GB of storage, which runs out very quickly. I highly recommend if you make a lot of,videos or any type of content creation, I highly recommend a device with 128GB or more.

FTC Disclaimer: this article contains affiliate links which means I will earn a small commission if you make a purchase.