When and how to use clean app cache and clear app data

 Anyone who has ever had an app or software problem on Android may have been told to "clear app cache" or "clear app data." These two techniques are frequently regarded as Android miracle cures, but what distinguishes these seemingly identical operations? That is exactly what we are attempting to convey in this essay.

What exactly is cache?

Before we dive into the specifics of app cache, let's define the term "cache." The cache, in its most basic form, is a reserved storage area that holds temporary data. This information is generally used to assist programmes, browsers, and websites in loading quicker. Another way to think of caching is as a tool for speeding up and providing a speedier experience. Aside from providing a quicker, smoother user experience, the cache also assists you in reducing the quantity of data processed and consumed.

Let me use an example to help you understand.

Have you ever noticed how sluggish your camera app is to launch after restarting your phone, yet each following try is faster? This cached data is responsible for the boost in performance following the initial startup of an app. Similarly, you may notice that webpages load quicker on subsequent visits. This is because things like photos have previously been saved in the cache.

What does the phrase 'Clear app cache' mean?

Now that you know what a 'cache' is, you may better comprehend the expression 'clean app cache.' When you complete this step, you are effectively deleting any temporary data associated with an app.

On Android devices, there is often no need to manually manage cached data because the system is quite capable of doing so on its own without you even noticing. However, if an app begins to misbehave or cease operating, you may be compelled to do this step as part of the debugging process.

Clearing an app's cached data removes the temporary files that have been stored there, and you'd be amazed how often this simple procedure works. However, it should be noted that it does not guarantee improved speed, and the programme may even be momentarily slower the next time it is used.

What does it mean to 'clean app data' or 'clear app storage'?

If you haven't already noticed, 'clear app cache' and 'clear app data' ('clear app storage' on newer phones) are two separate tasks. However, you should be aware that wiping app data is a more serious procedure. While deleting the cache poses no danger to app settings, preferences, and stored states, wiping the app data completely deletes/removes them.

Clearing data effectively restores an app to its original state: it causes your programme to behave as it did when you initially downloaded and installed it. Assume you make adjustments to your preferred fitness app's settings. You may customise the length of the workouts as well as the sound settings.

These stored settings will not be affected if the cache is cleared. Clearing saved data may, and most likely will, help.

When should you use them?

There are a few reasons why you might want to remove app or cached data.

First and foremost, to conserve storage space. Some programmes can save many gigabytes of data that you no longer require (podcast apps are often guilty of this). You may choose to clear their data in this situation.

The other, more usual, purpose is to restore a programme to its original form if it has become troublesome, buggy, or otherwise disruptive.

How do you delete app data or cached data?

To remove app data or cached data on Android 11 and later, follow these instructions.

Launch the Settings app.

Select Storage.

Choose Apps or Other Apps.

This will provide a list of all the apps that are presently installed on your phone. By default, it will prioritise the apps that use the most data. On previous Android versions, you may also sort the applications by size.

Choose the programme for which you wish to remove the cache/data.

There are two alternatives available: Clear storage and Clear cache.

Choose one of these alternatives depending on your objective.

Please keep in mind that 'delete app data' or 'clear app storage' is the more extreme of the two options and should only be used if you are having serious problems with an app or are running out of storage space.

If you're using an earlier version of Android, you can erase all cached files with a single click. To accomplish this, navigate to Settings > Storage > Cached data and select Clear Cache. This feature has been removed from subsequent Android versions, including Android 10 and 11.

A note about "performance-enhancing" applications

Many apps claim to "improve device performance," but this isn't always the case. Many of these applications only offer a one-touch option for terminating processes and emptying the cache, both of which are completely superfluous on today's Android platform.

You may and should do this manually if necessary, but don't make it a habit.

So, while deleting your app when your phone is operating slowly or the memory is full may seem like the greatest solution in the short run, it may have long-term effects, which is why you shouldn't do it too frequently.

Last thoughts

When it comes to cleaning the cache and app data, there is no "better" or "worse" choice. Both procedures have a function.

Clearing the cache should be your first step in resolving a broken app because it is the least intrusive way for swiftly fixing applications. If that fails, or if you want to free up more storage space, delete the files. Just keep in mind that anything stored or saved in the programme, including music, video, or image files, will be deleted as well.

Has that allayed your fears about app data and cached data? If not, please let us know in the comments.