Why does my SD card show as full even though I’ve deleted most of the files?

I have a [size] GB SD card that I use with my [device type – e.g., camera, Android phone, Raspberry Pi]. I recently deleted a bunch of files, but the card still shows as nearly full. I’ve already emptied the recycle bin (if applicable), and tried checking it on a computer. Any idea what’s going on or how to fix it?

Tagged: SD card

SD card

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Kai Vortex

Participant

September 30, 2025 at 5:43 am

Thanks Kael,
That’s important too.

Kael Rowan

Participant

September 23, 2025 at 6:35 am

Check for hidden files on your computer — sometimes stuff doesn’t show up in the normal view.

Kai Vortex

Participant

August 29, 2025 at 11:08 am

Many devices move deleted files into hidden folders like .Trash, .Trashes, or LOST.DIR, so the files stay on the card until those are emptied.
On Android phones or certain cameras, there may also be a built-in “trash” or “recently deleted” folder that needs to be cleared manually. If the card was used in something like a Raspberry Pi, it could also have extra partitions that confuse how the storage is shown. To fix it, first check for hidden folders and delete them, then run a disk check (chkdsk on Windows or fsck on Mac/Linux) to repair any errors. If that doesn’t work, back up anything important and perform a full format using the official SD Card Formatter tool.

Viewing 3 replies - 1 through 3 (of 3 total)