Clear your cache through Settings, then restart your console

The fastest way to clear your Xbox One cache is to go to Settings > System > Storage > Clear local saved games. This removes temporary files your console stores to run games and apps faster. After you select it, restart your Xbox One completely — unplug it for 10 seconds, then plug it back in. This full restart clears what's called the system cache, which is separate from the saved games cache.

You don't lose your game progress or account information when you do this. The cache is just temporary data — think of it like the browser history on your phone. Clearing it frees up storage space and can fix problems like games freezing, apps crashing, or your console running slowly.

Key Takeaways

  • Go to Settings > System > Storage > Clear local saved games to remove cached files without losing your game progress.
  • After clearing the cache, unplug your Xbox One for 10 seconds and plug it back in to complete a full restart.
  • Clearing cache frees up storage space and can fix freezing, crashes, or slow performance.
  • Your saved games, achievements, and account stay intact — only temporary files are removed.
  • If problems continue after clearing cache, try clearing the system cache by holding the power button for 10 seconds instead of unplugging.

What the cache actually stores on your Xbox

Your Xbox One creates cache files every time you play a game or use an app. These files contain things like textures that load faster the second time you play, temporary login information, and parts of games that the console pre-loads so they run smoother. The cache makes your experience faster, but over time it can get cluttered or corrupted.

There are actually two different caches on your Xbox. The local saved games cache is what you clear through Settings — it's the easiest one to access. The system cache is deeper in your console's memory and clears when you do a full power cycle (unplug and restart). If you're having persistent problems, clearing both usually solves them.

When you should clear your cache

Clear your cache if a game keeps freezing at the same point, an app crashes when you open it, or your console feels sluggish when launching games. You should also clear it if you're running low on storage space — the cache can take up several gigabytes depending on how many games you have installed.

Some people clear their cache once a month as routine maintenance, but you only really need to do it when you notice a problem. Clearing it won't hurt anything, so if you're not sure whether it will help, it's safe to try.

The difference between clearing cache and factory reset

Clearing cache removes only temporary files and keeps all your games, saves, and account information. A factory reset erases everything on your console and returns it to the state it was in when you first bought it. You should only do a factory reset if clearing the cache doesn't fix your problem, or if you're selling or giving away your Xbox.

If you do need a factory reset, go to Settings > System > Console info & updates > Reset console. You'll have the option to keep your games and apps or remove everything. Keeping them is faster if you plan to use the same console afterward.

Clearing cache on specific games

You can also clear the cache for just one game instead of your whole console. Go to Settings > System > Storage, select the game you want, and choose Manage. From there you can delete the local save data for that game only, which clears its cache without touching anything else.

This is useful if only one game is giving you trouble — you won't have to wait for your whole console to clear cache and restart. Your progress in that game stays saved to the cloud if you have Xbox Game Pass or an active Xbox Live subscription, so you won't lose anything.

What to do if clearing cache doesn't fix the problem

If your console still freezes or crashes after clearing the cache, try a full power cycle: hold the power button on the front of your Xbox for 10 seconds until it shuts down completely, then turn it back on. This is different from just putting it in sleep mode, and it clears the system cache more thoroughly than the Settings menu does.

If that doesn't work, check whether your console has the latest system update. Go to Settings > System > Console info & updates > Check for system updates. Updates sometimes fix bugs that cause crashes or freezing. If you've tried all of this and the problem continues, you may have a hardware issue and should contact Xbox Support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will clearing cache delete my saved games?

No. Clearing cache removes only temporary files. Your saved games stay on your console and in the cloud. If you're worried, your saves are backed up automatically if you have an Xbox Live subscription.

How much storage space does cache take up?

It varies depending on how many games you have and how often you play them. Cache can range from a few hundred megabytes to several gigabytes. Clearing it usually frees up at least 1 to 2 GB of space.

Do I need to clear cache regularly?

Only if you notice problems like freezing or slow performance. Clearing cache once a month is fine if you want routine maintenance, but it's not necessary unless something isn't working right.

What's the difference between unplugging and holding the power button?

Unplugging does a harder reset and clears more of the system cache. Holding the power button is gentler and clears most of it. Both work — unplugging is more thorough if you're having stubborn problems.

Can I clear cache while a game is running?

No. Close any games or apps first, then go to Settings. Your console needs to be in the home menu to clear cache safely.