Optimized Storage helps free local disk space by keeping some full-size files or photo originals in iCloud while leaving smaller local versions or placeholders on the Mac. The files are not deleted; they download again when opened.
This guide applies to Macs signed in to iCloud on macOS Sierra or later.
Does This Affect You?
Use this if Storage settings suggest optimizing space and you want to know whether your files remain safe and accessible.
What Optimized Storage Does
- For Photos, full-resolution originals can live in iCloud while the Mac keeps smaller local versions.
- For Desktop and Documents through iCloud Drive, older or less-used files can remain in iCloud only and show a cloud icon locally.
- The feature does not permanently delete synced files.
- Optimized items need an internet connection before they can fully open if they are not stored locally.
- Only files covered by iCloud Drive or iCloud Photos are affected.
Turn It On or Check It
- Open System Settings > General > Storage.
- Review Recommendations for optimize-related options.
- For Photos, open Photos > Settings > iCloud and choose Optimize Mac Storage.
- For Desktop and Documents, open iCloud Drive settings and enable Desktop & Documents Folders if you want those folders included.
- Give macOS time to optimize gradually in the background.
Optimized Storage Notes
iCloud Space Required
The files still need to fit in your iCloud plan. The free 5 GB plan is often too small for a real photo library.
Turn It Off
Choose Download Originals to this Mac in Photos, or turn off Desktop and Documents syncing, if you want full local copies and have enough disk space.
Opening Can Take Time
A file or photo stored only in iCloud may pause while it downloads, especially on slow Wi-Fi.
Best Use Case
Optimized Storage is most useful on Macs with small internal drives and a paid iCloud+ plan large enough for Photos and Drive.
Sources
- Apple Support: Storage settings on your Mac
- Apple Support: Store files in iCloud Drive on Mac
- Apple Support: Optimize photo storage settings on Mac