How to Move Microsoft Store Apps to Another Drive in Windows 11
You can move Microsoft Store apps to another drive in Windows 11 to free up space on your primary drive.
This process is essential when your C: drive is nearing capacity, allowing you to relocate these applications to a larger secondary drive, like a D: or E: drive.
Moving apps ensures your system drive, often designated as C:, maintains adequate free space, which is crucial for optimal Windows performance and stability. For example, insufficient space can lead to slower boot times and general sluggishness.
This capability is particularly useful for larger games and applications downloaded through the Microsoft Store.
Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features. Find the app, click the three dots, select Move, and choose your desired drive. Windows will automatically transfer the app files to the new location.
Why Move Apps to Another Drive?
- Free up space on your main system drive (C:)
- Help your PC run faster
- Use a larger or faster drive for your apps
What Kinds of Apps Can You Move?
You can move apps you get from the Microsoft Store, like games or helpful tools, to a different drive on your computer.
- Microsoft Store apps: Apps you get from the Microsoft Store (like games, utilities, or other programs). These can be moved to another drive.
- Standalone apps: Programs you install using their own installers (like Google Chrome or Spotify). These usually cannot be moved this way.
Where Are Microsoft Store Apps Stored?
By default, Microsoft Store apps are saved on your Windows (C:) drive inside special folders like WindowsApps and Packages. But you can move them to other drives. These can be internal drives or external drives like USB drives or SD cards. The drive must be formatted with NTFS.
How to Move Microsoft Store Apps to Another Drive in 🪟 Windows 11
Moving Microsoft Store apps to another drive in Windows 11 is easy using the Settings app.
- Open Settings
Click the Start button (Windows icon in the bottom-left corner) and then click Settings. Or press Windows key + I on your keyboard.
- Click Apps on the left menu
windows 11 settings apps on menu - Click Apps & features on the right
windows 11 apps and features tile - Find the app you want to move
Scroll or search the list for the Microsoft Store app you want to move.
- Click the three dots (⋮) next to the app, then select Move
windows 11 app move command to another drive - Choose the new drive
A small window will pop up. It tells you the app is currently on your C: drive. Click the drop-down menu. Pick the drive you want to move the app to. Then click Move.
windows 11 app move command to another drive select location - Wait for the app to move
Windows will create two folders named WindowsApps and WpSystem on the new drive. These folders will store your app files.
windows 11 store app moved to another drive
That’s it! Your app is now running from the new drive. This frees up space on your main drive.
Important Tips to Know
- You can only move apps installed from the Microsoft Store this way.
- External drives like USB sticks or SD cards must be NTFS format (not FAT32 or exFAT) to move apps to them.
- If you remove the drive with the moved app, the app will not work until you reconnect it.
Before you move Microsoft Store apps, know that only apps from the Store can be moved using the Settings app.
Summary
Moving Microsoft Store apps to another drive is a simple way to free up space on your main C: drive.
How do I move Microsoft Store apps to another drive?
Click on Apps & Features. Select the app you want to move. Click the Move button. Choose the new drive from the drop-down menu.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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