Fix Not Enough Space to Install macOS Sequoia Quick & Safe

This year at WWDC 2024, Apple talks about the new Mac operating system, macOS Sequoia, and all its cool features and functions. But, upon installing it, many have faced the issue of handling storage space on their device. To address that, we have compiled this guide today, which is full of possible fixes that will solve the problem of not having enough space to install macOS Sequoia easily.

Fixes such as clearing your Downloads folder, using the native Storage Management toolkit to free up space, deleting backups, and more to free up space. Here are all the details you need to know about how to implement these fixes.

Part 1. How Much Space Needed to Install macOS Sequoia

The full installer of macOS Sequoia is about 14.7 GB. However, it requires additional space to install. To download and install the OS on your Mac, you need at least 30 GB of storage. To check your Mac's storage space, choose "System Settings > General > Storage (macOS Ventura and later) or About This Mac > Storage (macOS Monterey and below)".

Before installing, free space must be determined. If you don't have enough space, the installation procedure can halt. To prevent these complications, we recommend having at least 16-20 GB of free space. After determining your free space, continue to the following section to discover how to create space for a macOS Sequoia upgrade.

Part 2. How to Fix Not Enough Space TP Install macOS Sequoia 

You must verify your disc space after learning how much macOS Sequoia requires for the installation. If it's not enough, try these fixes one by one:

Fix 1. Clear the Downloads folder

The Downloads folder stores AirDrop and internet downloads. It will fill up and take up space if you don't clean it regularly. Go to Downloads and delete unnecessary files if your Mac is running out of space. The actions below will clean the garbage:

Step 1. First, open Finder and go to the folder called "Downloads."

Step 2. After that, click "Group" and then "Date Added."

Step 3. Last, go to the downloads that are the oldest. Select the files, right click and then click on "Move to Trash".

Fix 2. Use Native Storage Management Toolkit to Free up Space

Mac comes with a built-in storage management toolkit that lets you get rid of files and folders you don't need, though it takes more time and work. Follow these steps if you want to use this fix:

Step 1. Go to the Apple menu, select "System Settings," then "General," and click on "Storage."

Step 2. When you click on the Recommendations tab, you'll see four ways to free up space on your Macintosh HD:

• 🔴Store in iCloud – Click this button to save all your files and folders in iCloud.
• 🟠Optimize – If you need more space on your Mac, click this option to get rid of Apple TV movies and TV shows you've already watched and only keep recent email files.
• 🟡Erase Trash Automatically – Set your garbage to empty after 30 days to conserve space.
• 🟢Reduce Clutter – You can delete unnecessary files and other items from this Mac.

Fix 3. Delete iPhone or iPad Backups on Your Mac

Files for your iPad and iPhone can use up a lot of your disc space on Mac. Clearing these backup files can help you clear up the storage space to install MacOS Sequoia.

Here's how to get rid of those backup files:

Step 1. Connect your iPad or iPhone to your Mac.

Step 2. After that, open "Finder" and look for the device in the "Locations" tab.

Step 3. Now, as shown in the picture above, click "Manage Backups."

Step 4. Last, choose a backup file and click "Delete."

Fix 4. Uninstall Less Used Apps

You can also get some extra space by getting rid of old or useless apps. Getting rid of apps you don't use cannot only enhance your device's speed but also free up some space on your device. Here are the steps you can follow to uninstall relatively less-used applications:

Step 1. First, open "Finder" and click on "Applications" on the left side of the screen.

Step 2. Next, find any old or unused apps that you want to delete. Press the "Command + Del" button to uninstall the app. That's it! You now have more space on your Mac.

Part 3. Recover Accidentally Deleted or Lost Files During You Free Up Space 

Have you lost your important files while clearing up space on your Mac? No worries! EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard for Mac can help you quickly recover your accidentally deleted files.

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard for Mac is easy to use. No matter if the data is lost due to unintentional deletion, formatting, or other causes, it can be recovered easily. Even non-techies can use its straightforward interface to recover accidentally deleted data. The program stands out from the rest due to its deep scanning algorithm and preview functionality before retrieving files.

This data recovery software for Mac can retrieve files from internal storage, external storage drives, USB drives, fusion drives, and more. This tool from EaseUS can recover most files, including videos, images, documents, and emails.

Below are the step-by-step instructions for recovering lost data using EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard:

Step 1. Search for lost files

Select the disk location to search for lost files (it can be an internal HDD/SSD or a removable storage device) on macOS Sierra, High Sierra, Mojave, Catalina, Big Sur, Monterey, Ventura, and the latest Sonoma. Click the "Search for lost files" button.

Note: Before data recovery, you'd better click "Disk Backup" from the left sidebar to create a backup of your Mac to avoid further data loss. After backing up, the software can recover data from the Mac backup, and your computer can wirte new data again.

Step 2. Go through the scanning results

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard for Mac will immediately scan your selected disk volume and display the scanning results.

Step 3. Select the file(s) and recover

In the scan results, select the file(s) to preview and click the "Recover" button to have them back.

Conclusion

You can install macOS Sequoia easily if you prepare your Mac in terms of storage space. Make sure you have 30 GB of free space to prevent installation difficulties. Clearing your Downloads folder, using the Storage Management Toolbox, and removing backups can save up space. However, you can accidentally erase vital data while clearing up space.

Fortunately, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard helps restore lost data. Highly regarded and trustworthy, it supports several file types and storage media. Enjoy the new features of macOS Sequoia, knowing that EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard can effortlessly restore deleted data.

FAQs on Not Enough Space for macOS Sequoia

The following questions are the most searched questions by users related to not enough space for macOS Sequoia:

1. How do I install macOS if I have not enough space?

Delete unnecessary files, clear your Downloads folder, and use the Storage Management Toolbox to clear up space. Transfer huge files to an external disc or online storage. A smooth installation requires at least 30 GB of free space.

2. Why does my Mac keep saying not enough disk space when there is?

This issue might occur because hidden files, system caches, or Time Machine backups are taking up space. Use the Storage Management toolkit to identify and remove these files. Restart your Mac and recheck the storage to ensure accurate readings.

3. Why is macOS Sequoia not installing?

Insufficient disc space, damaged installer files, or compatibility difficulties can prevent installation. Make sure your Mac has 30 GB of free space and meets minimum system requirements. Redownload the installation and try. If issues continue, contact Apple Support.