Blog

How to Fix OneDrive Not Showing Photo Thumbnails in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

OneDrive is a popular cloud storage service that integrates seamlessly with Windows 11. It allows you to access your files, including photos, from anywhere. However, sometimes photo thumbnails in OneDrive may not display correctly. This can be frustrating when you want to quickly identify images without opening them.

Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to fix the issue of OneDrive not showing photo thumbnails. These solutions are easy to follow and do not require advanced technical knowledge. By following these instructions, you can restore the thumbnail previews and improve your overall experience.

The problem usually happens because of settings related to Windows Explorer or OneDrive itself. Fixing these settings often resolves the issue quickly. Let’s explore the best ways to get your photo thumbnails back.

Below, you will find step-by-step solutions starting with the easiest and moving to more detailed fixes. Each step is explained clearly to help you understand why it matters.

Quick Note Before You Start

  • Make sure your Windows 11 system and OneDrive app are updated to the latest versions.
  • Check that your photos are fully synced in OneDrive and available locally on your device.
  • Confirm that you have enough free disk space, as low space can affect thumbnail generation.
  • Close any open File Explorer windows before starting the fixes to avoid conflicts.

Step 1: Enable Thumbnail Previews in File Explorer

Windows may be set to show icons instead of thumbnails by default. Enabling thumbnails ensures images show previews instead of generic icons.

  1. Open File Explorer from the taskbar or by pressing Win + E.
  2. Click on the View menu at the top.
  3. Select Show and ensure File name extensions is checked (optional but helpful).
  4. Click Options on the right side to open Folder Options.
  5. Go to the View tab.
  6. Uncheck the box labeled Always show icons, never thumbnails.
  7. Click Apply, then OK.

This step tells Windows to display actual image previews instead of default icons, which is crucial for seeing photo thumbnails in OneDrive folders.

Step 2: Clear and Reset Thumbnail Cache

Sometimes, the thumbnail cache gets corrupted, causing thumbnails not to show. Clearing this cache forces Windows to rebuild it.

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type cleanmgr and press Enter to launch Disk Cleanup.
  3. Select your system drive (usually C:) and click OK.
  4. In the Disk Cleanup window, check the box for Thumbnails.
  5. Click OK and then Delete Files to clear the cache.
  6. Restart your computer to allow Windows to recreate the thumbnail cache.

Clearing the cache removes old or damaged thumbnail data, which can fix display problems in OneDrive and other folders.

Step 3: Check OneDrive Sync Settings and File Availability

OneDrive offers a feature called Files On-Demand that keeps files online-only to save space. Thumbnails might not show for files not stored locally.

  1. Click the OneDrive cloud icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner).
  2. Click Help & Settings (gear icon) and select Settings.
  3. In the Settings tab, make sure Save space and download files as you use them (Files On-Demand) is enabled.
  4. Go to your OneDrive folder in File Explorer.
  5. Right-click the photo files or folders with missing thumbnails.
  6. Select Always keep on this device to download the files locally.

Having files locally stored ensures thumbnails can be generated because Windows has direct access to the image data.

Step 4: Adjust Performance Settings in Windows

Windows has a performance option that affects visual effects, including thumbnails. Disabling certain optimizations may help.

  1. Press Win + S and type View advanced system settings, then open it.
  2. In the System Properties window, click the Advanced tab.
  3. Under Performance, click Settings.
  4. In the Visual Effects tab, ensure Show thumbnails instead of icons is checked.
  5. If it’s already checked, try selecting Adjust for best appearance and click Apply.
  6. Click OK to save changes.

These settings control how Windows renders file previews. Proper configuration helps thumbnails display correctly across all folders.

Step 5: Reset OneDrive

If thumbnails still don’t appear, resetting OneDrive can fix underlying sync or configuration issues.

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
 %localappdata%MicrosoftOneDriveonedrive.exe /reset
  1. Wait a few minutes while OneDrive resets. The OneDrive icon in the system tray may disappear and reappear.
  2. If the icon does not reappear after a few minutes, press Win + R again and enter:
 %localappdata%MicrosoftOneDriveonedrive.exe

Resetting OneDrive refreshes the app’s settings and can resolve sync problems that prevent thumbnails from loading.

Alternative: Use a Third-Party Thumbnail Viewer

If Windows still fails to show thumbnails in OneDrive, you might consider using a third-party file explorer or thumbnail viewer. These tools can bypass Windows’ limitations and offer better preview options.

Some popular choices include QuickLook or Seer, which allow instant thumbnail previews with a simple shortcut.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why are my OneDrive thumbnails not showing even after enabling thumbnails in File Explorer?

Files might be online-only due to Files On-Demand, or the thumbnail cache could be corrupted. Make sure files are downloaded locally and try clearing the thumbnail cache.

Does resetting OneDrive delete my files?

No, resetting OneDrive only refreshes the app’s settings. Your files remain safe in the cloud and on your device if they are synced locally.

Can low disk space affect thumbnail display?

Yes, if your system drive has very little free space, Windows might not create or display thumbnails properly. Freeing up space can help.

Are photo file formats a factor?

Windows supports common formats like JPG, PNG, and BMP. If your photos are in uncommon formats, thumbnails might not appear unless you install additional codecs.

How do I disable Files On-Demand?

In OneDrive settings under the Settings tab, uncheck Save space and download files as you use them. This will download all files locally but use more disk space.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions restore your OneDrive photo thumbnails, consider the following final options:

  • Update Windows 11: Check for system updates that may fix bugs affecting thumbnails.
  • Reinstall OneDrive: Uninstall and reinstall the OneDrive app from Microsoft Store or official website.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official OneDrive Support page for personalized help.
  • Use Windows Troubleshooter: Run the built-in File Explorer or System Maintenance troubleshooter via Settings → Update & Security → Troubleshoot.

Conclusion

Photo thumbnails not showing in OneDrive on Windows 11 is a common issue that can usually be fixed with simple adjustments. Ensuring thumbnails are enabled, clearing the thumbnail cache, and having files stored locally are key steps. Adjusting performance settings and resetting OneDrive can resolve more stubborn problems.

By following the step-by-step solutions outlined above, you should be able to restore your photo previews and enjoy a smoother OneDrive experience. Always keep your system and OneDrive updated for the best performance and support.

Leave a Reply