Macos disk files size

Based on your description, it appears you've reinstalled macOS on your MacBook, and you're observing differences in how the disk space is being used and reported before and after the reinstallation. Let's break down what you're seeing:

First Installation (macOS 13.6.4):

• Macintosh HD - Data: This is typically where your personal data is stored. It's separate from the system files for added security and data management. The 2.83 GB used space suggests minimal personal data, which is expected after a fresh installation.
• Macintosh HD: This is the system volume. It contains macOS and its system files. The 9.33 GB used space is likely the core system files.
• Macintosh Volumes Total Used Space: The 12.17 GB total used space is the sum of the system and data volumes. This is normal for a clean macOS installation.

Second Installation (macOS 13.6.1):

• Only Macintosh HD Volumes Showing: After the second installation, you're noticing only one volume, but with 22.97 GB used. This might indicate that macOS is now combining the report for both the system and data volumes under a single "Macintosh HD" label.
• Increased Used Space: The increase in used space to 22.97 GB could be due to several factors such as system updates, additional system files, cache, or other temporary files created during the installation process.

Is This Okay?

• Normal Behavior: The behavior you're observing can be considered normal, especially if the second installation involved a different version or method of installing macOS.
• System Updates and Files: macOS installations can vary in size due to updates, additional components, and system file configurations. The reported sizes seem reasonable and don't indicate any immediate issues.

Recommendations

• Monitor Storage Usage: Keep an eye on your storage usage through the 'About This Mac' > 'Storage' tab. If you notice unusually high storage usage over time, you might want to investigate further.
• Cleanup: You can use built-in tools (found in 'About This Mac' > 'Storage' > 'Manage') to optimize storage, such as by removing unnecessary files, optimizing storage, and reducing clutter.
• Reindex Spotlight: If you feel the storage reporting is inaccurate, you can reindex Spotlight (as mentioned in a previous response) to see if it corrects the storage reporting.
• Disk Utility Check: If you're concerned about disk health or partitioning, use Disk Utility to verify disk health and structure.

As long as your MacBook is functioning properly and the storage usage seems to stabilize, there shouldn't be a problem. The variations you see are likely due to the different ways macOS versions manage and report storage, especially after fresh installations or updates.