If you are running Windows 10 or 11, you can use a more modern "CompactOS" feature. This specifically compresses operating system files, which can save several gigabytes without impacting general performance as much as full drive compression.
While modern SSDs handle compression well, constant writing/rewriting during the compression process technically contributes to drive wear. compress c drive
Your CPU has to work harder to decompress files every time you open a program. If you have an older processor, your computer will feel slower. If you are running Windows 10 or 11,
If you still need space after that, then compress only specific folders (e.g., C:\ProgramData\SomeOldApp ), not the entire system drive. Your future self, waiting for your PC to boot, will thank you. Your CPU has to work harder to decompress
Open the , type cmd , right-click it, and Run as Administrator .