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Two versions of OneDrive on Mac

Chris Hallsworth 20 Reputation points
2025-08-24T09:31:19.54+00:00

For some reason I have 2 versions of OneDrive on my Mac although there is only one icon in Launchpad's list of applications. One version is 34GB, the other is 2.4GB but there are unique files on each drive. Obviously my aim is to have just one version but with no loss oof data in the process.

If I follow the 'Learn about using 2 versions' in OneDrive it tells me to delete the version with a delete button in the header. In my case that's the version with the 2.5GB.

My question is whether, if I delete that version, what happens to the data, some of which might be unique and not duplicated on the other version?

Microsoft 365 and Office | OneDrive | Other | MacOS
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  1. Harold Milan 12,600 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-08-24T18:19:41.8866667+00:00

    Hi Chris,

    Thanks for reaching out! It’s totally understandable to feel a bit unsure when you see two versions of OneDrive on your Mac, especially when each one has different files and you're trying to avoid losing anything important. You're doing the right thing by asking before making any changes.

     

    Why You’re Seeing Two Versions

    This usually happens when both the Mac App Store version and the standalone version of OneDrive are installed. They can create separate folders and sync differently, which is why you’re seeing unique files in each.

     

    What Happens If You Delete One

    If you follow the prompt to delete the version with the banner (likely the smaller 2.4GB one), here’s what to keep in mind:

    Files that aren’t synced to OneDrive online might be deleted.

    Files that are already synced to the cloud will stay safe and accessible through the remaining OneDrive version or via the web.

    What You Can Do First

    To make sure nothing gets lost:

    Open both OneDrive folders and compare what’s inside.

    Move any unique files from the smaller version to the larger one—or just copy them to a safe folder outside OneDrive.

    Check your OneDrive online to confirm what’s already backed up.

    Back up anything you’re unsure about to an external drive or another cloud service.

    Once you’re confident everything’s safe, go ahead and delete the version with the banner.

     

    After That

    Restart your Mac, make sure the remaining OneDrive is syncing properly, and you’re good to go! If you want a fresh start, you can reinstall OneDrive from your preferred source App Store or OneDrive.com.

     

    Let me know if you’d like help comparing folders or setting up a backup checklist I’ve got your back!

     

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