If your OnePlus phone storage is filling up faster than expected, you are not alone. Many OnePlus users notice that system storage keeps increasing, leaving very little space for apps, photos, and videos.
This issue is common, especially after multiple software updates and long-term usage. The good news is that it can be fixed without harming your personal data, as long as you follow the right steps.
In this guide, you will learn safe and proven methods to manage and reduce system storage on your OnePlus phone, while following best Android practices.
How to Reduce System Storage on OnePlus Phone
Follow these safe and proven steps to reduce system storage on your OnePlus phone without deleting personal data or affecting performance.
- Restart Your OnePlus Phone
Restarting your OnePlus phone clears temporary system files and background processes that may be consuming extra storage space.
- Clear App Cache from Storage Settings
Open Settings, go to Storage, select Apps, and clear cached data for apps that are using excessive storage without deleting app data.
- Remove Unused Apps and Files
Uninstall apps you no longer use and delete old files, downloads, or media that are taking up unnecessary storage on your device.
- Move Media to Cloud or External Storage
Back up photos and videos to cloud services or transfer them to an external device to free up internal storage safely.
- Update System Apps and OxygenOS
Keeping your system apps and OxygenOS updated helps remove bugs and optimizes system storage usage on your OnePlus phone.
- Reset Phone as a Last Resort
If system storage remains full, back up your data and perform a factory reset to restore normal storage allocation.
What Is System Storage on OnePlus Phones?
System storage on a OnePlus phone includes:
- Android operating system files
- OxygenOS system components
- Temporary system cache
- App logs and background data
These files are essential for your phone to function properly. However, over time, cached files, update leftovers, and logs can grow larger than needed. This causes your OnePlus phone storage to appear almost full even when you haven’t installed many apps.
Why OnePlus Phone Storage Keeps Increasing
The most common reasons include:
- Repeated system updates
- App cache buildup
- Temporary system logs
- Unused apps storing background data
- Messaging apps storing media automatically
Understanding this helps you clean storage safely without deleting important data.
Method 1: Clear System Cache Using Recovery Mode
Clearing system cache removes temporary files only and does not affect your personal data.
Steps to Clear System Cache
- Turn off your OnePlus phone
- Press and hold Power + Volume Down together
- Release buttons when the OnePlus logo appears
- Enter Recovery Mode
- Select Wipe Cache
- Restart your phone
This method is one of the safest ways to reduce OnePlus system storage.
Method 2: Remove Unused Files and Apps

Image Credits: blog.en.uptodown
If wiping the cache does not resolve, Unused apps and large files often consume hidden storage.
Unused apps can quietly take up storage in the background, so learning how to manage Android apps efficiently can make it easier to identify and remove apps you no longer need.
How to Clean Storage
- Go to Settings → Storage
- Review which apps and files use the most space
- Delete unnecessary videos, documents, and downloads
- Uninstall apps you no longer use
You can also use Files by Google, which is a trusted and ad-safe app recommended by Google.
Method 3: Keep Your OnePlus Software Updated

Image Credits: onsitego
Keeping your OnePlus phone up-to-date is crucial in preventing storage-related issues. Software updates not only bring new features but often include bug fixes that improve storage OnePlus regularly improves storage management through updates.
Update Your Phone
- Go to Settings → System → Software Update
- Download and install available updates
- Restart your device
Updated software often fixes system storage bugs and improves performance.
Method 4: Use Trusted Cleaner Apps (With Care)
Third-party cleaner apps can help, but only if they are reliable and well-reviewed.
Recommended Practices
- Download only from the Google Play Store
- Avoid apps that promise “extreme cleaning”
- Review files before deleting anything
Apps like Files by Google or SD Maid (basic features) are generally safe when used responsibly.
Method 5: Factory Reset (Last Option)
If nothing works, a factory reset can fully restore your OnePlus phone storage.
⚠️ Important: This will erase all data.
Before Reset
- Backup photos, contacts, and files
- Sync your Google account
Factory Reset Steps
- Go to Settings → System → Reset Options
- Select Erase All Data (Factory Reset)
- Confirm and wait for reboot
After reset, system storage usually returns to normal size.
Additional Tips to Manage OnePlus Phone Storage
Use Cloud Storage: Store photos and videos on Google Drive
Clear App Cache Regularly: Especially social and messaging apps
Limit Auto Media Downloads: WhatsApp and Telegram store large files
Monitor Storage Monthly: Early cleanup prevents major issues
💡Recommendation: If you plan to switch phones or back up large files, it helps to transfer data securely from Android so your OnePlus phone storage stays under control.
FAQ’s:
System updates, cached files, and app data gradually increase storage usage over time.
Yes. Clearing cache removes temporary files only and does not delete personal data.
Basic cleaning once a month is enough for most users.
Yes, but it should be used only as a last option after backing up your data.
Conclusion
When OnePlus phone storage fills up due to system files, it can slow down your device and limit usability. By clearing cache, removing unused apps, keeping software updated, and managing files wisely, you can regain storage space safely.
A factory reset should only be used if all other solutions fail.
If storage limits continue to be an issue, you may also consider smartphones with better storage options that are designed for long-term use.
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Hi, I’m Aditya Rathod, a tech content creator and the founder of Zynicon.com.
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