Microsoft cuts M365 Family and Premium OneDrive cloud storage from 6TB to just 2TB what it means for your files
Microsoft has lowered the OneDrive cloud storage limit for Microsoft 365 Family and Premium subscribers from 6TB to 2TB. This means that if you relied on having up to 6TB of shared or individual storage, you now have significantly less space available to store your files online. This article explains exactly what changed, why Microsoft made this decision, how it affects your current storage and sharing, and what you can do if 2TB isn’t enough.
What has Microsoft changed about M365 Family and Premium OneDrive storage?
Microsoft has reduced the total OneDrive storage for Microsoft 365 Family and Premium plans from 6TB to 2TB. Previously, the Family plan offered up to 6TB total storage shared among up to six users, with each user getting 1TB. Now, the entire subscription only provides 2TB total, which is a significant cut. For individual Premium subscribers, the maximum storage has also been lowered to 2TB. This change reduces the amount of space you have to store documents, photos, videos, and backups in OneDrive. Within Family plans, this means each user’s available storage is also reduced since the total shared storage is smaller.
Why is Microsoft reducing OneDrive storage for these plans?
Microsoft says this reduction is to better match actual usage patterns and manage operational costs. According to Microsoft, many users don’t fully use the 6TB storage previously offered, so the company aims to streamline plans and allocate resources more efficiently. This adjustment also fits a broader strategy to encourage more efficient use of cloud storage and to guide users who need more space toward higher-tier or business plans. While some users see this as a way to push upgrades or reduce value, Microsoft describes it as a necessary change rather than a removal of features.
How does the storage cut affect my current files and shared storage?
If you currently use more than 2TB of OneDrive storage, you will exceed your new limit when the change takes effect. Microsoft usually gives a grace period before limiting new uploads or syncs, but eventually, you’ll need to reduce your storage to avoid disruptions. For Family plans, the total shared storage is now 2TB, so individual users may have less than the previous 1TB each, depending on how storage is divided. Files already stored won’t be deleted right away, but you won’t be able to add new files or sync changes until you reduce your usage below 2TB. Sharing options may also be affected if your storage exceeds the new limit, potentially restricting how you share or sync files.
What can I do if 2TB isn’t enough for my OneDrive needs?
If 2TB is not enough, you have several alternatives. You could upgrade to a Microsoft 365 business plan, which offers more storage per user. Another option is to use additional cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox to supplement your space. You can also archive old or rarely used files offline or compress large files to save space. For Family plans, managing shared storage carefully—such as distributing files between users or limiting some members’ usage—can help avoid hitting the cap. Regularly reviewing and deleting unnecessary files also helps keep your storage within limits.
How to check your OneDrive storage usage and prepare for the new limits
To check your current OneDrive storage and get ready for the change, follow these steps:
- Sign in to your Microsoft account at onedrive.live.com.
- Click the gear icon (Settings) in the upper-right corner.
- Select "Options" or "Manage storage" from the menu.
- Review the storage summary to see how much space you are using and your total allowance.
- For Family plans, try to check individual user usage to understand how storage is distributed.
Checking your storage regularly before the limit changes helps prevent unexpected issues.
To prepare, organize your files, delete duplicates or unneeded content, and back up important data locally or on other services. Setting alerts to notify you as you approach your storage limit can also help avoid surprises.
Conclusion
The reduction of OneDrive storage from 6TB to 2TB for Microsoft 365 Family and Premium plans means you should review your current storage use and understand how it affects your files. Take time to check your usage, clean up or archive files, and explore options if you need more storage. Acting proactively will help you avoid data loss or interruptions in access as the new limits take effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Microsoft delete my files if I exceed the new 2TB limit?
Microsoft does not delete your files immediately if you go over the new limit. However, you could lose the ability to upload new files or sync changes until you reduce your storage below 2TB.
Can I keep the old 6TB storage if I don’t upgrade or change plans?
No, the 2TB limit applies to all current and new Microsoft 365 Family and Premium subscribers. The 6TB option is no longer available under these plans.
Does this storage cut affect business or enterprise Microsoft 365 plans?
No, this change only applies to Family and Premium consumer plans. Business and enterprise plans have different storage amounts and are not necessarily affected by this reduction.