---
id: mac-storage-basics.what-are-partial-download-files
url: https://storagestudio.us/faq/mac-storage-basics/what-are-partial-download-files
category: "Mac storage basics"
subcategory: "Finding big files, Downloads and the Trash"
question: "What are .download and .crdownload files, and can I delete them?"
alt_questions:
  - "crdownload file mac"
  - "safari .download file"
  - "incomplete download files mac"
  - "delete partial downloads"
  - "download file stuck in downloads"
short_answer: "They're unfinished Safari (.download) and Chrome (.crdownload) downloads. If nothing is downloading, delete them; Safari can sometimes resume one by double-clicking."
tags: ["downloads", "safari", "chrome"]
related: ["https://storagestudio.us/faq/mac-storage-basics/how-do-i-clean-up-my-downloads-folder"]
applies_to: "all"
last_reviewed: 2026-10-01
---

# What are .download and .crdownload files, and can I delete them?

They're **unfinished downloads**: Safari uses a .download package and Chrome a .crdownload file while a download is in progress. If a download failed or was cancelled, the partial file can stay behind and take space.

If nothing is downloading, delete them. Safari can sometimes resume a .download file if you double-click it.