On Windows, get a detailed report that includes usage, capacity and battery life estimates. Open the command prompt by hitting the Start menu, then typing in cmd or cmd.exe in the Run command box. Press Enter. Now, smarty-pants, type or paste in the following: powercfg /batteryreport
How much free storage should you have on your computer?
If your computer is slow, check its hard drive. You may need to clear storage space to make your PC run more smoothly. Simply put, your device needs a certain amount of free space to work correctly.
How much free space your computer needs will depend on the brand and model. We’ll give you details in this tech tip. In the meantime, you should also look for signs that your hard drive is failing. Watch for things like strange sounds.
If you hear strange noises, it might be time for an upgrade. Tap or click here for six more ways to keep your device going strong. Scroll down for ways to make your computer high-performance again.
How much free hard drive space do you need?
Want to find out your drive’s capacity? We can help you see how much wiggle room you have.
Windows computers need at least 100 MB of free space
👍 This rule of thumb applies to computers running Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista and Windows XP.
🦖 Are you still running Windows 7? That’s dangerous! It doesn’t get patch updates. You’re making it easy for hackers to break into your computer.
🖥️ However, even 100 MB may not be enough. Your computer needs at least 10% of free space available to install updates, Dell reports.
Easy ways to clear storage space
One easy way to free up storage space is to use Disk Cleanup, a built-in tool that finds files to delete. You can also use OneDrive Files On-Demand.
If you’re feeling extra technical, you can use Windows command prompts. Tap or click here for a step-by-step guide to clearing storage space on your Windows computer.
Have an iPhone, iPad or Mac? Here's how to set up Apple's built-in storage
Regarding storage, two important factors must be considered: Capacity and security. You want enough space to store your files, and you want them stored safely.
Cloud storage is an excellent choice for storing photos. You don’t have to worry about cluttering and slowing down your phone, and you can access them from your computer, phone or other connected devices. We’ve broken down a few options for you. Tap or click here to check out our report on Google Photos vs. iCloud vs. IDrive.
Recall alert for BMW, Chrysler and Toyota: Affected 2019-2020 BMW models have a starter motor issue, the 2023 Dodge Challenger’s rear seat isn’t locking properly, and several 2023-2025 Toyotas have incorrect weight capacity labels. Contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417, Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403 and Toyota at 1-800-444-1074.
600 miles in 9 minutes
Charge capacity for Samsung’s new EV battery. Oh, and the solid-state battery has a 20-year lifespan. They say it’ll be ready for mass production by 2027. Luxury carmakers will be all over this.
A solid router option for homes up to 2,500 square feet: TP-Link AX3000
According to your answers, the TP-Link AX3000 Smart Wi-Fi Router is the ideal router for your home. It’s handles dozens of devices, is Wi-Fi 6 enabled and comes with advanced security features right out of the box.
Wi-Fi 6 technology offers up to three times faster speeds, four times higher capacity and 75% lower latency compared to Wi-Fi. Tap or click here to learn more about Wi-Fi 6 routers. Along with an Intel dual-core CPU, you can expect smooth, buffer-free streaming and gaming.
Review: Einova 63W universal power bank
Over the past few years, one tech accessory that’s evolved into something I don’t know what I would do without is a portable power bank — the backup battery that charges your phone or other gadgets on the go. I make sure to have at least one when traveling, especially when camping, as a way to keep my iPhone ready to use in case of emergency.
Pass to the future: You might not need to schlep to the post office to renew your passport. The U.S. Department of State is beta-testing an online renewal system. For now, the beta is only open during unspecified “midday hours” (Eastern time) and closes when it reaches capacity each day. You can try your luck here on their site.
🛰️ Get cheaper Starlink internet: Folks in one of the 28 U.S. states with “extra capacity” can get SpaceX’s Starlink dish for $200 off ($299, plus shipping and tax) and $90 a month for internet. That’s a huge discount — the dish is regularly $499 and the service is normally around $120 a month. If you’re considering Starlink, jump on it now.
This app could save the battery in your Android phone
Mobile phone batteries have undoubtedly gotten better over the years out of necessity. Complex circuitry and internal components often require bigger, more efficient power sources.
Phone batteries are designed to have a long lifespan, but user behavior can significantly reduce their performance. Tap or click here to see how you have been charging your phone wrong. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to over-charge the battery.
T-Mobile and Sprint join forces - here's what's coming
T-Mobile and Sprint have officially merged to create the New T-Mobile. The new supercharged Un-carrier will deliver a transformative 5G network, better products at low prices, and continue to be a brand consumers love.