Quick Overview
- 1#1: CCleaner - Cleans temporary files, optimizes the registry, and manages startup programs to boost PC performance.
- 2#2: Glary Utilities - All-in-one suite that cleans junk files, fixes registry issues, and optimizes system performance.
- 3#3: Advanced SystemCare - Comprehensive PC optimizer that removes junk, defrags disks, and provides real-time performance tuning.
- 4#4: Wise Care 365 - Free suite for cleaning disks, defragmenting registry, and protecting privacy with system monitoring.
- 5#5: AVG TuneUp - Automatically cleans junk files, hibernates unused apps, and updates software for optimal PC speed.
- 6#6: BleachBit - Open-source tool that securely deletes junk files, frees disk space, and wipes free disk space.
- 7#7: CleanMyPC - One-click Windows cleaner that removes junk, bloatware, and system caches while uninstalling apps safely.
- 8#8: Auslogics BoostSpeed - Multi-tool optimizer that cleans registries, removes junk, and accelerates internet and system speed.
- 9#9: PrivaZer - Deep cleaner that erases traces from free space, internet history, and registries with secure overwrite.
- 10#10: Ashampoo WinOptimizer - Suite of over 30 tools for cleaning, tuning, and securing Windows systems with benchmark testing.
Tools were ranked based on feature effectiveness, software quality, user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring they meet varied needs and deliver consistent, trusted results.
Comparison Table
Maintaining a computer's performance often benefits from reliable cleaning software, and with tools like CCleaner, Glary Utilities, Advanced SystemCare, Wise Care 365, AVG TuneUp, and more, selecting the right option can be challenging. This comparison table outlines key features, usability, and effectiveness to help readers find the software that best suits their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CCleaner Cleans temporary files, optimizes the registry, and manages startup programs to boost PC performance. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Glary Utilities All-in-one suite that cleans junk files, fixes registry issues, and optimizes system performance. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | Advanced SystemCare Comprehensive PC optimizer that removes junk, defrags disks, and provides real-time performance tuning. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 4 | Wise Care 365 Free suite for cleaning disks, defragmenting registry, and protecting privacy with system monitoring. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | AVG TuneUp Automatically cleans junk files, hibernates unused apps, and updates software for optimal PC speed. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | BleachBit Open-source tool that securely deletes junk files, frees disk space, and wipes free disk space. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 10/10 |
| 7 | CleanMyPC One-click Windows cleaner that removes junk, bloatware, and system caches while uninstalling apps safely. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 8 | Auslogics BoostSpeed Multi-tool optimizer that cleans registries, removes junk, and accelerates internet and system speed. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | PrivaZer Deep cleaner that erases traces from free space, internet history, and registries with secure overwrite. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 10 | Ashampoo WinOptimizer Suite of over 30 tools for cleaning, tuning, and securing Windows systems with benchmark testing. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.2/10 |
Cleans temporary files, optimizes the registry, and manages startup programs to boost PC performance.
All-in-one suite that cleans junk files, fixes registry issues, and optimizes system performance.
Comprehensive PC optimizer that removes junk, defrags disks, and provides real-time performance tuning.
Free suite for cleaning disks, defragmenting registry, and protecting privacy with system monitoring.
Automatically cleans junk files, hibernates unused apps, and updates software for optimal PC speed.
Open-source tool that securely deletes junk files, frees disk space, and wipes free disk space.
One-click Windows cleaner that removes junk, bloatware, and system caches while uninstalling apps safely.
Multi-tool optimizer that cleans registries, removes junk, and accelerates internet and system speed.
Deep cleaner that erases traces from free space, internet history, and registries with secure overwrite.
Suite of over 30 tools for cleaning, tuning, and securing Windows systems with benchmark testing.
CCleaner
specializedCleans temporary files, optimizes the registry, and manages startup programs to boost PC performance.
Customizable cleaning rules for precise control over what files and data are removed
CCleaner is a premier computer cleaning and optimization software that removes junk files, temporary data, browser caches, and invalid registry entries to free up disk space and boost performance. It includes tools for managing startup programs, uninstalling software, updating drivers, and finding duplicates. With support for hundreds of applications and Windows components, it offers both quick one-click cleans and customizable advanced scans.
Pros
- Highly effective junk file and registry cleaning
- Intuitive interface with one-click options
- Extensive app support and regular updates
Cons
- Some advanced features require Pro upgrade
- Registry cleaning carries minor risks if misused
- Parent company privacy concerns from past incidents
Best For
Windows users seeking a reliable, user-friendly tool for routine PC maintenance and performance optimization.
Pricing
Free version with core cleaning; Professional at $24.95 first year ($39.95 renew) per PC, with multi-device and family plans available.
Glary Utilities
specializedAll-in-one suite that cleans junk files, fixes registry issues, and optimizes system performance.
One-Click Maintenance for automated multi-issue scanning and repair
Glary Utilities is a versatile all-in-one PC optimization suite featuring over 20 tools for cleaning junk files, repairing registry errors, removing duplicates, managing startup items, and defragmenting disks. It helps improve system performance, free up space, and enhance privacy through features like track erasure and software updates. The intuitive interface includes a signature One-Click Maintenance for quick scans and fixes.
Pros
- Comprehensive suite of 20+ specialized tools for thorough cleaning and optimization
- One-Click Maintenance simplifies routine upkeep
- Free version is robust with frequent updates
Cons
- Free edition includes nag screens promoting Pro upgrade
- Some tools like registry cleaner carry minor risks if misused
- Installation may bundle optional third-party software
Best For
Intermediate users wanting a free, feature-packed toolset for ongoing PC maintenance and speedup.
Pricing
Free version available; Pro upgrade at $19.97/year or $39.97 lifetime for 3 PCs with advanced features.
Advanced SystemCare
specializedComprehensive PC optimizer that removes junk, defrags disks, and provides real-time performance tuning.
AI-Powered Optimization that automatically detects and prioritizes system issues for smarter, hands-off cleaning
Advanced SystemCare by IObit is an all-in-one PC optimization tool designed to clean junk files, repair registry errors, manage startup items, and boost overall system performance on Windows computers. It features one-click maintenance scans, real-time monitoring, privacy protection, and tools for internet speedup and disk defragmentation. The software comes in a free edition with basic functionality and a Pro version unlocking advanced features like full real-time protection.
Pros
- Comprehensive suite of cleaning and optimization tools in one app
- User-friendly interface with one-click operations
- Free version provides solid basic maintenance capabilities
Cons
- Aggressive upselling and pop-ups for Pro upgrade
- Some features can be overly aggressive, risking system stability
- Mixed effectiveness compared to specialized cleaners
Best For
Casual Windows users seeking an easy all-in-one solution for routine PC maintenance without deep technical knowledge.
Pricing
Free version available; Pro starts at $19.99/year for 1 PC, with discounts for multi-year or multi-device plans.
Wise Care 365
specializedFree suite for cleaning disks, defragmenting registry, and protecting privacy with system monitoring.
One-Click Maintenance for quick full-system scan and cleanup across junk files, registry, and privacy areas.
Wise Care 365 is an all-in-one PC optimization tool that cleans junk files, repairs registry errors, removes duplicates, and defragments disks to improve system performance. It also features startup management, privacy protection, and real-time monitoring to safeguard against threats and maintain cleanliness. With a one-click maintenance option, it simplifies routine upkeep for Windows users.
Pros
- Comprehensive cleaning and optimization tools in one suite
- User-friendly interface with one-click maintenance
- Free version available with solid core functionality
Cons
- Frequent upsell prompts in the free version
- Registry cleaner risks data loss without proper backups
- Some advanced features locked behind Pro paywall
Best For
Casual Windows users seeking an easy, affordable all-in-one solution for routine PC cleaning and speedup.
Pricing
Free version; Pro at $29.95/year or $49.95 lifetime per PC.
AVG TuneUp
specializedAutomatically cleans junk files, hibernates unused apps, and updates software for optimal PC speed.
Sleep Mode, which intelligently hibernates unused programs to reclaim RAM and boost speed automatically
AVG TuneUp is a comprehensive PC optimization suite designed to clean junk files, remove duplicates, fix registry issues, and manage startup programs for improved performance. It includes automated maintenance features like Sleep Mode, which hibernates unused apps to free up RAM, and tools for updating software and shortening large files. Primarily for Windows with some Mac support, it emphasizes one-click cleaning and scheduled optimizations to keep systems running smoothly without constant user intervention.
Pros
- Intuitive one-click cleaning and optimization
- Effective automatic maintenance and Sleep Mode for resource management
- Comprehensive tools including duplicate finder and disk space analyzer
Cons
- Requires paid subscription after 14-day trial
- Limited free functionality
- Bundled with Avast ecosystem may lead to upsells and privacy concerns
Best For
Busy Windows users seeking hands-off automated PC cleaning and performance tweaks without technical expertise.
Pricing
14-day free trial; $49.99/year for 1 PC, $69.99/year for 10 devices, with bundle discounts available.
BleachBit
specializedOpen-source tool that securely deletes junk files, frees disk space, and wipes free disk space.
Secure file shredder with customizable overwrite methods (e.g., Gutmann 35-pass) to make deleted data irrecoverable
BleachBit is a free, open-source disk cleaner and privacy manager that securely deletes temporary files, caches, logs, and browser data to free up space and protect user privacy. It supports Windows, Linux, and macOS, with cleaners for over 2,500 applications and system areas, allowing preview before deletion. Advanced features include file shredding with multiple overwrite passes to prevent data recovery.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no ads or upsells
- Comprehensive cleaners for thousands of apps and system areas
- Secure deletion options including file shredding and free space wiping
Cons
- Dated user interface that may feel clunky
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to extensive options
- Lacks built-in scheduling or real-time monitoring
Best For
Tech-savvy users seeking powerful, customizable privacy-focused cleaning without ongoing costs.
Pricing
Free (open-source, donations encouraged)
CleanMyPC
specializedOne-click Windows cleaner that removes junk, bloatware, and system caches while uninstalling apps safely.
Space Lens: an innovative, interactive visual map of disk usage that pinpoints large files and folders effortlessly
CleanMyPC by MacPaw is a Windows-focused optimization tool that cleans junk files, temporary data, and browser caches while optimizing the registry and managing startup programs for improved performance. It includes specialized modules for complete program uninstallation, disk space visualization via Space Lens, and quick automated cleanups. Designed with a polished, intuitive interface similar to CleanMyMac, it targets everyday users seeking hassle-free PC maintenance without advanced technical knowledge.
Pros
- Intuitive and visually appealing interface that's easy for beginners
- Effective junk file removal and registry optimization
- Space Lens provides unique, interactive disk usage visualization
Cons
- Subscription model with no standard perpetual license
- Lacks some advanced customization options found in free alternatives like CCleaner
- Scans can be somewhat resource-intensive on older hardware
Best For
Windows users who want a simple, all-in-one cleaning tool without needing command-line expertise or free alternatives.
Pricing
Starts at $39.95/year for 1 PC; multi-PC or multi-year plans offer discounts, with a 4-day free trial available.
Auslogics BoostSpeed
specializedMulti-tool optimizer that cleans registries, removes junk, and accelerates internet and system speed.
Smart Driver Updater that automatically detects and installs optimal drivers for hardware compatibility and performance
Auslogics BoostSpeed is a versatile PC optimization suite that cleans junk files, repairs registry errors, manages startup programs, and defragments disks to enhance system performance. It includes additional tools for privacy protection, internet optimization, and real-time performance monitoring. The software provides both automated one-click fixes and customizable scans for thorough maintenance.
Pros
- Comprehensive set of cleaning and optimization tools
- Intuitive interface with one-click operations
- Effective startup manager and disk defragmenter
Cons
- Aggressive upselling in the free version
- Some scans can be resource-intensive
- Limited free features compared to premium
Best For
Intermediate users who want an all-in-one tool for regular PC cleaning and performance tweaks without advanced technical knowledge.
Pricing
Free version available with core features; Premium edition starts at $59.95/year for 1 PC, with discounts for multi-PC licenses and lifetime options.
PrivaZer
specializedDeep cleaner that erases traces from free space, internet history, and registries with secure overwrite.
Upstream/downstream cleaning with up to 35-pass secure overwrite for forensic-level data destruction
PrivaZer is a powerful free Windows cleaning tool designed to remove junk files, internet traces, and residual data while prioritizing user privacy through secure deletion methods. It performs deep scans of free space, pagefile, registry, and browser histories, overwriting data multiple times to prevent recovery. Unlike basic cleaners, it offers customizable cleaning levels and supports both quick optimizations and forensic-level erasures.
Pros
- Exceptionally thorough cleaning including free space and registry
- Secure multi-pass data overwriting (up to 35 passes)
- Completely free with portable version available
Cons
- Interface feels dated and overwhelming for novices
- Deep scans can take hours on large drives
- Windows-only, no macOS or Linux support
Best For
Privacy-conscious Windows users needing deep, irrecoverable data cleaning and system optimization.
Pricing
Free (donor version unlocks minor extras; no subscriptions).
Ashampoo WinOptimizer
specializedSuite of over 30 tools for cleaning, tuning, and securing Windows systems with benchmark testing.
1-Click Optimizer that automates junk file removal, registry cleaning, and performance tweaks in a single action
Ashampoo WinOptimizer is a versatile Windows optimization suite that focuses on cleaning junk files, optimizing the registry, removing browser traces, and managing startup programs to improve system performance. It offers a wide range of modules including drive cleanup, privacy protection, and system tweaks for enhanced speed and security. While effective for routine maintenance, it includes additional benchmarking and tweaking tools beyond basic cleaning.
Pros
- Comprehensive set of cleaning tools including registry and privacy cleaners
- Intuitive one-click optimization for quick maintenance
- Regular updates with new features and Windows compatibility
Cons
- Free version is limited and pushes premium upgrades
- Some modules can be overly aggressive, risking system stability
- Interface feels cluttered with numerous tabs and upsells
Best For
Windows users seeking an all-in-one cleaning tool for regular PC maintenance without advanced technical knowledge.
Pricing
Free limited version; Premium license ~$30 one-time for 1 PC, with multi-license and subscription options.
Conclusion
The top 10 tools deliver essential cleaning and optimization, with CCleaner leading as the top choice—excellent for temporary file cleanup, registry management, and startup control. Glary Utilities and Advanced SystemCare follow closely, offering all-in-one suites and deep optimization respectively, ensuring users find strong alternatives tailored to their needs. Together, these tools highlight the importance of regular maintenance for peak PC performance.
Don’t let cluttered files slow you down—try CCleaner, the top-ranked tool, to refresh your system and enjoy smooth, efficient performance.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison