Virtualization
Clear UTM Cache on Mac
To clear the UTM cache, quit the app first, then move only its cache-related folders to the Trash and leave your virtual machines alone. If the app offers a clear option in its own settings, use that before touching any folders by hand. The app rebuilds what it needs on the next start, which can take longer the first time.
Clear the UTM cache without guessing
UTM data usually takes 5 GB – 200 GB on a Mac. The free scan shows the exact size on your Mac before you change anything.
Free scan · No account · Nothing is deleted without your OK · Moves to the Trash first · macOS 14+
OptiClear is a Mac app. Copy this page's link and open it on your Mac.
Email me the link- Application
- UTM
- Typical data size
- 5 GB – 200 GB
- Category
- Virtualization
- File Location
~/Library/Containers/com.utmapp.UTM
UTM cache folders you can clear
UTM has no separate cache folder. Its folders hold settings and your own data, so there is nothing to clear safely by hand.
What the UTM cache holds and when clearing it helps
Specific to UTM
The cache-related folders hold settings and app data for the main app and for its QEMU helper process, which runs virtual machines separately. Virtual machines are a different matter: they are stored as .utm packages with their disk images and configuration, kept inside the app's container, which is why that container can reach 5 GB – 200 GB. Clearing the cache helps when the app starts oddly, keeps misbehaving after an update, or seems to hold on to old settings. It will not free much space if most of the total is your own virtual machines.
What happens after you clear the UTM cache
The app rebuilds its files the next time it opens, so the first start may be slower than usual. Your virtual machines stay where they are and should appear as before, because they are not part of the cache. Any cleared settings return to their defaults, so you may need to set a few preferences again. Keep the removed folders in the Trash until you have confirmed everything works, since they can be restored until the Trash is emptied.
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Try it without risk
- Download and scan for freeSee every UTM file and its size. No account needed.
- Clean free for 7 daysStart the 7-day free trial of the yearly plan inside the app.
- Keep it or cancelCancel in your App Store settings at least 24 hours before the trial ends and you won't be charged.
After the free trial, Pro costs $39.99 per year in your country's App Store; cancel any time.