• HOME
  • WHAT WE DO
    • Flat Rate Managed IT Services and Support
    • Cloud Solutions
    • Technology Consulting
    • Hardware and Software
    • Phone Systems
  • ABOUT
    • Why Singlesource IT?
    • News
    • Technology Partners
  • CONTACT US
  • Search

Mobile Menu

Call us today!

(614) 784-9738

  • Menu
  • Skip to right header navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Before Header

Call us today:  (614)784-9738

Client Login

Free Risk Report

Download Your Cyber Security Guide

Singlesource IT

Your Central Ohio IT Provider. Specializing in small and mid-sized business.

  • HOME
  • WHAT WE DO
    • Flat Rate Managed IT Services and Support
    • Cloud Solutions
    • Technology Consulting
    • Hardware and Software
    • Phone Systems
  • ABOUT
    • Why Singlesource IT?
    • News
    • Technology Partners
  • CONTACT US
  • Search

How Much Device Storage You Need: A Comprehensive Guide

Device storage decides how many applications, photos, and files you can retain on your device. When you run out of storage, it can affect your productivity and device performance. But finding the right storage amount isn’t always easy. 

We can underestimate what we need or get too much storage. This guide will help you figure out how much storage is actually needed. 

What is Device Storage?

Device storage refers to space on the phone, tablet, or computer. The device storage stores all your data such as apps, photos, videos, and documents. When you fill up your storage space, you can no longer save videos and documents. In that case, you would need to pay for additional storage or get a new device. 

There are two major types of storage:

  • Internal Storage: This is a built-in device. It can’t be removed, and is usually faster compared to external storage.
  • External Storage: This includes SD cards and USB drives, which can be added or removed. They give you more space but may be slower.

Different devices come with various storage options. Let’s look at some common ones:

  • Smartphones: Most smartphones start at 64GB. High-end models can have up to 1TB. iPhones don’t have SD card slots. Many Android phones do.
  • Tablets: Tablets typically range from 32GB to 256GB. Some have slots for memory cards if you need more space.
  • Laptops: Laptops tend to contain 128GB to 1TB of storage. You can generally upgrade that later.
  • Desktops: Desktop computers can have really large storage. 1TB to 4TB is common. You can easily add more if needed.

How Much Storage Do You Really Need?

It can be difficult to know how much storage you really need. Many people get too much or too little storage. Your storage needs depend on how you use your device. Let’s look at some common user types:

Basic users

If you mostly browse the web and use simple apps, 64GB might do the job. This is enough for: 

  • Email
  • Social media 
  • Light photo taking 

Average users

For people who take lots of photos and use many apps, 128GB to 256GB works best. This covers:

  • Many apps
  • Photo libraries
  • Some video storage

Power users

If you work with large files or store lots of media, you need 512GB or more. This is for:

  • Video editing
  • Large game libraries
  • Huge photo collections

Professional users

Some jobs need even more space. 1TB or more is common for:

  • 4K video production
  • Large datasets
  • Professional photo editing

How Can You Manage Device Storage Better?  

You can optimize your storage to avoid running out of space. Here are some tips; 

  • Use cloud storage: Services like Google Drive or iCloud can store your files online and save device space. 65.2% of people use cloud storage as their primary storage. 
  • Delete unused apps: Remove apps you don’t use. They take up space and might slow down your device.
  • Clear cache regularly: Many apps store temporary files. Clearing these can free up space.
  • Use streaming services: Stream music and videos rather than download them. That saves a lot of space.

What Takes Up the Most Storage?

Some things use more storage than others. Here are the biggest storage users:

  • Videos: Videos are space hungry. A 1-hour 4K video can take up 7GB or more.
  • Photos: Photos take less space compared to videos. However, they accumulate rather fast. 1000 high-quality photos may take up 5GB.
  • Games: Modern games are huge. Some can be over 100GB each.
  • Apps: Most apps are small. But some, like editing tools, can be very large.

What to Do If You Run Out of Storage?

If you run out of space, you can add more storage by using SD cards or an external drive. This is a great option instead of buying a new device. If possible, change your device for one with higher storage. An upgrade will give you more space internally. 

You can also put more files in the cloud with cloud storage solutions. Some popular options are Google Drive and Dropbox. This frees up more space on your device. 

How to Choose the Right Storage for Your Next Device

When buying a new device, keep in mind how many photos and videos you take, how many apps or games you download, and whether you work with big files. Choose a device that will have enough storage for your needs. It’s better to have too much than too little.

Now you are aware of much more about device storage. You can make a better choice for your next device. Your needs may change over time, so it’s usually wise to get more storage than you think you need.

Do you still have questions about device storage? Contact us for personalized advice. We are here to help you find the right device with just the right amount of storage.

—

Featured Image Credit

This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

We’re here to help!

Get in touch today to find out why Singlesource IT should be your partner in IT.

You May Also Be Interested In:

Free computer data digital vector

How Do Websites Use My Data? (Best Practices for Data Sharing)

Contact us Today to Schedule your Technology Business Review!

Free safe nature lock vector

Ultimate Guide to Safe Cloud Storage

Don’t Trust Airport USB Chargers or Wi-Fi! New Official Warning from the TSA

Free security pattern lock vector

Complete Guide to Strong Passwords and Authentication

Free password login sign vector

What is Password Spraying?

person using Windows 11 computer beside white ceramic mug on white table

10 Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Microsoft 365 Apps

Free cloud computing connection cloud vector

6 Best Cloud Storage Providers to Save Device Space

Free Stylish home office workspace featuring a computer setup with accessories. Stock Photo

10 Awesome Ways to Customize Your Desktop Layout

Previous Post: «Windows 11 - EOS Heads up! End of Support for Windows 10 is Approaching!
Next Post: Is It Time for a Device Upgrade? Check for These 7 Signs Free Aerial view of a sleek laptop keyboard on a clean, white surface, ideal for tech backgrounds. Stock Photo»

Primary Sidebar

Need IT?

We’ve partnered with the best. Find out why Singlesource IT should be your one source, one call technology solution.

GET IN TOUCH TODAY.

LATEST NEWS

Free computer data digital vector

How Do Websites Use My Data? (Best Practices for Data Sharing)

Websites store and use user data in many ways, usually to personalize content, show ads, and make …

Contact us Today to Schedule your Technology Business Review!

At Singlesource IT, we are committed to providing exceptional service and ensuring that our …

Free safe nature lock vector

Ultimate Guide to Safe Cloud Storage

Since we live in a digital world, cloud storage is an important tool for both personal and business …

Don’t Trust Airport USB Chargers or Wi-Fi! New Official Warning from the TSA

With the busy summer travel season underway, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is …

Free security pattern lock vector

Complete Guide to Strong Passwords and Authentication

Cyber risks are smarter than ever in today's digital world. People and companies can lose money, …

Footer

Contact Us

Singlesource IT
(614) 784-9738

148 N. High St.
Gahanna, OH 43230

Newsletter

Sign up to get free resources, tips, and news from Singlesource IT.

Thanks for signing up!

Copyright © 2025 · Singlesource IT