What clearing cache actually does
Cache is temporary data your Samsung device stores to make apps and websites load faster the next time you use them. When you clear cache, you delete those stored files, but you keep your passwords, photos, messages, and anything else that matters. Think of it like emptying your browser's memory without throwing away your files.
Clearing cache can free up storage space, fix an app that is acting slow or frozen, or remove data from websites you visited. It does not delete your account information or sign you out of apps — that is a separate action called clearing data, which you should avoid unless you have a specific reason.
Most people clear cache once every few months, or when an app starts misbehaving. You can clear cache for one app at a time, or for your entire device in one action.
Key Takeaways
- Clearing cache removes temporary files that apps and websites store, which can free up storage and fix slow apps without deleting your passwords or photos.
- You can clear cache for a single app through Settings > Apps, or clear all cache at once through Settings > Storage.
- Clearing cache is safe and reversible — the files will rebuild themselves as you use your apps and browser.
- Do not confuse clearing cache with clearing data, which deletes your passwords and account information for that app.
Clear cache for one app at a time
Open Settings on your Samsung device. Scroll down and tap Apps (on some Samsung phones this is called process Manager).
Find the app you want to clear cache for — you can scroll through the list or use the search icon at the top. Tap the app name. You will see buttons for Force Stop, Storage, and other options. Tap Storage.
You will see two buttons: Clear Cache and Clear Data. Tap only Clear Cache. Do not tap Clear Data unless you want to erase your login information for that app. A message will confirm the cache was cleared.
Close Settings and open the app — it will work normally, and any cache will rebuild as you use it.
Clear all cache at once
Open Settings and tap Storage (on some Samsung devices this is under Device Care > Storage). You will see how much space is used and what is taking it up.
Look for an option called Cached Data or Cache — the exact name varies by Samsung model and Android version. Tap it, then tap Delete or Clear. A confirmation message will appear.
This removes cache from every app on your device at once. It is safe and will not affect your photos, messages, or login information. Your device may take a moment to respond as apps rebuild their cache files over the next few days.
Clear cache in your web browser
If you use Samsung Internet (the default browser on most Samsung phones), open the app and tap the three-line menu icon in the bottom right corner. Tap Settings, then Privacy.
Tap Delete Browsing Data. A menu will appear with options like Cookies, Cached Images, and Cached Files. Make sure Cached Images and Files is checked, then tap Delete.
If you use Chrome instead, open the app and tap the three-dot menu in the top right. Tap Settings > Privacy and Security > Delete Browsing Data. Check Cached Images and Files, then tap Delete.
When to clear cache and when not to
Clear cache if an app is running slowly, freezing, or crashing. Clear cache if you are running low on storage space — cache files can add up over time. Clear cache if you want to remove browsing history from a website you visited.
Do not clear cache if your device is running fine and you have plenty of storage. Clearing cache makes apps take slightly longer to load the first time you open them after clearing, because they have to rebuild their temporary files. For most people this delay is not noticeable, but there is no reason to clear cache on a schedule if nothing is wrong.
Never clear cache as a way to delete your passwords or account information — that requires clearing data instead, which is a different action. If you want to sign out of an app without deleting its data, look for a Sign Out or Log Out button inside the app itself.
What happens after you clear cache
Your device will have more free storage space, usually between 100 megabytes and several gigabytes depending on how many apps you use and how long it has been since you last cleared cache. Apps will rebuild their cache files automatically as you use them, so you will not see any permanent change in how they work.
Websites may load slightly slower the first time you visit them after clearing cache, because your browser has to read images and files again instead of loading them from storage. This is usually not noticeable on a fast internet connection.
You can clear cache as often as you want without harming your device. There is no downside to clearing cache regularly, though most people only need to do it when they notice a problem or when storage is full.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will clearing cache delete my photos or messages?
No. Cache is only temporary files that apps and websites store. Your photos, messages, contacts, and all personal data stay on your device. Clearing cache only removes the temporary copies that speed up loading.
What is the difference between clearing cache and clearing data?
Clearing cache removes temporary files. Clearing data removes everything the app has stored, including your login information, settings, and saved preferences. Always clear cache, not data, unless you want to completely reset an app.
Do I need to clear cache on my Samsung phone regularly?
Only if you notice an app running slowly or your storage is full. There is no benefit to clearing cache on a schedule if everything is working fine. Most people clear cache once every few months or when a problem appears.
Will clearing cache sign me out of my apps?
No. Clearing cache keeps your passwords and login information. You will stay signed in to all your apps. If you want to sign out, look for a Sign Out button inside the app itself.
Can I clear cache for just one app without clearing it for others?
Yes. Go to Settings > Apps, find the app you want, tap Storage, and tap Clear Cache. This clears cache only for that app. You can also clear all cache at once through Settings > Storage if you prefer.