Mac storage basics · Developer tools
Why do virtual machines take up so much space, and how do I shrink them?
Short answer: A VM image contains a whole operating system, and snapshots add copies of changes. Delete unneeded snapshots, use the app's reclaim/compact option, or keep VMs on an external SSD.
A virtual machine's disk image holds a whole operating system plus its apps and files, and VM snapshots keep extra copies of changed data. Images also tend to grow and not shrink on their own.
To reclaim space: delete snapshots you don't need inside the VM app, delete files inside the guest system, then use the app's reclaim or compact option; remove VMs you no longer use; or keep VMs on a fast external SSD. Exclude VM files from Time Machine if they make backups huge.