Why and How to Clear Cache on Samsung Phones

Clearing cache removes temporary files your apps and browser store to load faster next time. On Samsung phones, this frees up storage space, can fix apps that are crashing or running slowly, and removes data from websites you've visited. You can clear cache for individual apps, for your browser, or for your entire phone at once.

The process takes less than a minute and does not delete your photos, messages, or login information. Your apps will straightforward take a moment longer to load the first time after you clear the cache, then return to normal speed.

Key Takeaways

  • Cache is temporary data stored by apps and your browser; clearing it frees storage and can fix slow or crashing apps without deleting your personal files.
  • You can clear cache for one app at a time through Settings > Apps, or clear all cached data at once through Settings > Storage.
  • Clearing browser cache in Samsung Internet or Chrome removes browsing history and stored website data, but does not log you out of accounts unless you also clear cookies.
  • If an app crashes or freezes after clearing cache, restart your phone and the app will rebuild its cache automatically.

Clear Cache for a Single App

Open Settings and tap Apps. Scroll to find the app you want to clear cache for — for example, Instagram, YouTube, or Gmail. Tap the app name, then tap Storage. You will see two buttons: Clear Cache and Clear Data. Tap Clear Cache only. This removes temporary files the app stored without deleting your account, messages, or saved content.

If you tap Clear Data instead, you will log out of the app and lose saved preferences. Stick to Clear Cache unless the app is severely broken and you are willing to set it up again from scratch.

Clear Cache for Your Browser

If you use Samsung Internet (the default browser on most Samsung phones), open the app and tap the three horizontal lines in the bottom right corner. Tap Settings, then Privacy. Tap Delete browsing data. A menu will appear with checkboxes for Browsing history, Cookies and site data, and Cached images and files. Leave the boxes checked as they are and tap Delete.

If you use Google Chrome instead, open Chrome and tap the three vertical dots in the top right corner. Tap Settings, then Privacy and security. Tap Clear browsing data. Make sure the time range at the top is set to All time, check the boxes for Cookies and site data and Cached images and files, and tap Clear data.

Clear All Cache at Once

Open Settings and tap Storage or Device care (the name varies by Samsung model). Look for an option called Storage, Manage storage, or Clean. Tap it, then look for Cached data or Cache. Tap the option and confirm. Your phone will clear cached files from all apps in one action.

On some Samsung models, you can also go to Settings > Apps > tap the three dots in the top right > Show system > scroll down and tap Storage > Clear Cache. This clears system cache as well as app cache.

What Happens After You Clear Cache

Your apps will work normally. The first time you open an app after clearing its cache, it may take a few extra seconds to load because it is rebuilding the temporary files it needs. After that, speed returns to normal. You will not be logged out of your accounts, and your photos, messages, and downloads remain untouched.

If an app crashes or behaves strangely after you clear cache, restart your phone. This allows the app to rebuild its cache properly. If the problem continues, you may need to uninstall and reinstall the app, but this is rare.

When to Clear Cache

Clear cache when your phone is running slowly, when an app keeps crashing, or when you are running low on storage space. You can also clear cache regularly — once a month is reasonable — to keep your phone running smoothly without any downside.

You do not need to clear cache before selling or giving away your phone. If you are doing that, use Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset instead, which wipes everything including cache, apps, and personal files.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will clearing cache delete my photos or messages?

No. Cache is temporary data only. Your photos, messages, contacts, and all personal files stay on your phone. Clearing cache removes only the temporary files apps use to load faster.

Can I clear cache without losing my passwords?

Yes. When you clear cache, your saved passwords remain. If you want to remove passwords, you must separately clear cookies and site data in your browser settings. Cache and passwords are stored separately.

What is the difference between clearing cache and clearing data?

Cache is temporary files; clearing it is safe and does not affect your account. Data includes your login information, settings, and saved content; clearing it logs you out and resets the app to its first-run state. Always clear cache, not data, unless the app is broken.

How often should I clear cache on my Samsung phone?

Once a month is a good routine, or whenever you notice your phone slowing down or an app crashing. There is no harm in clearing cache weekly. It takes less than a minute and has no downside.

Does clearing cache free up a lot of storage space?

It depends on how much cache has built up. Clearing cache typically frees 100 MB to 1 GB, which is helpful if you are running low on storage. If you need more space, uninstalling unused apps or deleting old photos will free much more.