Quick Overview
- 1#1: Defraggler - A powerful disk defragmenter that allows defragmenting entire drives, individual files, or free space with boot-time optimization.
- 2#2: Auslogics Disk Defrag - Optimizes disk performance using advanced algorithms for faster defragmentation and boot-time cleaning.
- 3#3: Smart Defrag - Provides automated, scheduled defragmentation with game and system optimization for peak performance.
- 4#4: UltraDefrag - An open-source defragmenter supporting NTFS fully, with scripting and boot-time defrag capabilities.
- 5#5: O&O Defrag - Professional defragmentation tool with cluster optimization and detailed fragmentation analysis for SSDs and HDDs.
- 6#6: Diskeeper - Enterprise-grade real-time defragmentation that prevents fragmentation proactively without manual intervention.
- 7#7: Wise Disk Defrag - Free, lightweight defragmenter that supports fast defrag for HDDs, SSDs, and boot optimization.
- 8#8: Puran Defrag - Fast and free defragmenter with optimization for shortcuts, registry, and hibernation files.
- 9#9: Glary Disk Defrag - Integrated disk defragmenter within Glary Utilities suite for quick scans and one-click optimization.
- 10#10: MyDefrag - Scriptable open-source defragmenter offering customizable consolidation and optimization routines.
We ranked these tools based on critical factors including defragmentation speed, feature comprehensiveness (such as NTFS support or scripting capabilities), user interface intuitiveness, and overall value, ensuring a balanced guide for both casual users and tech-savvy professionals.
Comparison Table
Defrag software enhances system efficiency by organizing fragmented files, and this comparison table spotlights tools like Defraggler, Auslogics Disk Defrag, Smart Defrag, UltraDefrag, O&O Defrag, and more. Readers will gain insights into key features, performance, and usability to identify the ideal option for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Defraggler A powerful disk defragmenter that allows defragmenting entire drives, individual files, or free space with boot-time optimization. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 |
| 2 | Auslogics Disk Defrag Optimizes disk performance using advanced algorithms for faster defragmentation and boot-time cleaning. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Smart Defrag Provides automated, scheduled defragmentation with game and system optimization for peak performance. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 4 | UltraDefrag An open-source defragmenter supporting NTFS fully, with scripting and boot-time defrag capabilities. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 5 | O&O Defrag Professional defragmentation tool with cluster optimization and detailed fragmentation analysis for SSDs and HDDs. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 6 | Diskeeper Enterprise-grade real-time defragmentation that prevents fragmentation proactively without manual intervention. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | Wise Disk Defrag Free, lightweight defragmenter that supports fast defrag for HDDs, SSDs, and boot optimization. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 8 | Puran Defrag Fast and free defragmenter with optimization for shortcuts, registry, and hibernation files. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 9 | Glary Disk Defrag Integrated disk defragmenter within Glary Utilities suite for quick scans and one-click optimization. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 10 | MyDefrag Scriptable open-source defragmenter offering customizable consolidation and optimization routines. | specialized | 7.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 4.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
A powerful disk defragmenter that allows defragmenting entire drives, individual files, or free space with boot-time optimization.
Optimizes disk performance using advanced algorithms for faster defragmentation and boot-time cleaning.
Provides automated, scheduled defragmentation with game and system optimization for peak performance.
An open-source defragmenter supporting NTFS fully, with scripting and boot-time defrag capabilities.
Professional defragmentation tool with cluster optimization and detailed fragmentation analysis for SSDs and HDDs.
Enterprise-grade real-time defragmentation that prevents fragmentation proactively without manual intervention.
Free, lightweight defragmenter that supports fast defrag for HDDs, SSDs, and boot optimization.
Fast and free defragmenter with optimization for shortcuts, registry, and hibernation files.
Integrated disk defragmenter within Glary Utilities suite for quick scans and one-click optimization.
Scriptable open-source defragmenter offering customizable consolidation and optimization routines.
Defraggler
specializedA powerful disk defragmenter that allows defragmenting entire drives, individual files, or free space with boot-time optimization.
Granular defragmentation of specific files or folders, enabling quick fixes without defragging the entire drive
Defraggler is a highly efficient defragmentation tool from Piriform (makers of CCleaner) designed to optimize hard drives and SSDs by rearranging fragmented data files for improved system performance. It stands out with its unique ability to defragment entire drives, individual files, or specific folders, providing granular control not found in most competitors. The software includes advanced analysis tools with visual fragmentation maps and supports boot-time defrags for locked system files, making it a top choice for Windows users seeking precise disk optimization.
Pros
- Selective defragmentation of individual files or folders for targeted optimization
- Fast performance with detailed visual analysis and fragmentation maps
- Free version offers core functionality rivaling paid tools
Cons
- Limited to Windows operating systems only
- Advanced features like scheduling and boot-time defrag require Professional upgrade
- Interface feels slightly dated compared to modern apps
Best For
Windows power users and IT professionals who need precise, selective defragmentation control without full-drive scans.
Pricing
Free version available with core features; Professional edition at $24.95 one-time purchase for scheduling, boot-time defrag, and updates.
Auslogics Disk Defrag
specializedOptimizes disk performance using advanced algorithms for faster defragmentation and boot-time cleaning.
Proprietary defragmentation algorithms (e.g., Auslogics Fast, Optimize) tailored for specific drive types and usage scenarios
Auslogics Disk Defrag is a robust disk optimization utility for Windows that defragments HDDs and SSDs to boost read/write speeds and overall system performance. It features multiple proprietary algorithms, boot-time defragmentation for locked files, and automated scheduling to keep drives optimized. The free edition handles core tasks effectively, while the Pro version adds faster processing and advanced SSD-safe optimizations.
Pros
- Exceptionally fast defragmentation with multithreaded processing
- Safe SSD optimization without excessive writes
- Detailed drive analysis and visualization reports
Cons
- Free version includes upsell prompts for Pro features
- Pro upgrade required for full algorithm suite and priority support
- Occasional bundling of additional Auslogics tools during install
Best For
Home users and gamers seeking a reliable, no-fuss defrag tool for maintaining Windows PC performance without high costs.
Pricing
Free version with core features; Pro lifetime license at $29.95, or annual subscription options around $19.95.
Smart Defrag
specializedProvides automated, scheduled defragmentation with game and system optimization for peak performance.
Boot Time Defrag for optimizing locked Windows system files during startup
Smart Defrag by IObit is a disk optimization tool designed to defragment traditional HDDs and optimize SSDs, enhancing overall system performance by rearranging fragmented files. It features automated background defragmentation, boot-time defrag for locked system files, and specialized modes for games and large files. The software is available in a free edition with core functionality and a Pro version that unlocks advanced scheduling and faster algorithms.
Pros
- Fully functional free version with automatic defragmentation
- User-friendly interface suitable for beginners
- Boot-time defrag effectively handles system files
Cons
- Pro version required for advanced features like full scheduling
- Occasional upsell prompts in the free edition
- Less customizable than some premium competitors
Best For
Budget-conscious users seeking reliable, automated disk optimization without complex setup.
Pricing
Free version available; Pro starts at $19.99/year for one PC.
UltraDefrag
specializedAn open-source defragmenter supporting NTFS fully, with scripting and boot-time defrag capabilities.
Boot-time defragmentation, which optimizes OS-locked files inaccessible during normal operation.
UltraDefrag is a free, open-source disk defragmentation tool for Windows that optimizes HDD performance by rearranging fragmented files on NTFS and FAT volumes. It offers full, quick, and boot-time defragmentation modes, along with specialized optimizations for the Master File Table (MFT), pagefile, and registry hives. The software provides both a user-friendly GUI and a powerful command-line interface for scripting and automation.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no ads or limitations
- Boot-time defragmentation for locked system files
- Portable edition and detailed progress reports/logging
- Supports advanced optimizations like MFT and registry defrag
Cons
- Development stalled since 2018, missing modern updates
- Outdated interface that feels dated compared to contemporaries
- Limited SSD support; primarily optimized for traditional HDDs
- Windows-only, no cross-platform compatibility
Best For
Windows users with mechanical HDDs seeking a powerful, no-cost defragmenter with boot-time capabilities.
Pricing
100% free and open-source (no paid tiers or trials).
O&O Defrag
specializedProfessional defragmentation tool with cluster optimization and detailed fragmentation analysis for SSDs and HDDs.
ClusterBox visualization for precise file placement analysis on disk clusters
O&O Defrag is an advanced disk defragmentation and optimization software for Windows that surpasses the built-in tool with sophisticated algorithms like Optimize, Complete, and Quick modes. It provides detailed cluster visualization via ClusterBox, supports HDDs, SSDs with TRIM, and handles boot-time defragmentation for locked system files. The software includes scheduling, job management, performance reports, and optimizations for games and multi-core processors.
Pros
- Superior cluster visualization and analysis tools
- Comprehensive support for SSDs, HDDs, and boot files
- Flexible scheduling and automated optimization jobs
Cons
- Full features require paid Professional edition
- Interface can overwhelm casual users
- Limited to Windows operating systems
Best For
Power users, gamers, and IT admins needing detailed control and visualization for disk performance optimization.
Pricing
Free edition with basic features; Professional version €29.90 one-time per PC, with volume discounts.
Diskeeper
enterpriseEnterprise-grade real-time defragmentation that prevents fragmentation proactively without manual intervention.
InvisiTasking technology for seamless, always-on defragmentation without interrupting system resources
Diskeeper by Condusiv is a professional defragmentation and optimization software for Windows systems, focusing on real-time file placement to maintain peak disk performance. It employs patented InvisiTasking technology to defragment drives continuously in the background without slowing down the system or requiring scheduled reboots. Additionally, it supports SSDs with safe TRIM operations and includes I/O reduction features to cut unnecessary read/write activity, making it ideal for servers and heavy workloads.
Pros
- Real-time defragmentation with zero performance impact via InvisiTasking
- SSD-safe optimization including TRIM and wear-leveling protection
- Advanced I/O reduction and detailed performance analytics
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to free built-in Windows defrag
- Windows-only compatibility, no macOS or Linux support
- Overkill for casual home users with light workloads
Best For
IT administrators and server managers needing automated, continuous disk optimization in enterprise environments.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses starting at $49.95 per workstation; server editions and subscriptions up to $200+ per device.
Wise Disk Defrag
specializedFree, lightweight defragmenter that supports fast defrag for HDDs, SSDs, and boot optimization.
Boot-time defragmentation for optimizing locked system files
Wise Disk Defrag is a lightweight disk optimization tool designed to defragment HDDs and optimize SSDs, improving file access speeds and overall system performance. It provides quick analysis, defragmentation algorithms like Fast and Best, and boot-time defrag for locked system files. The software is available in a portable version and includes visual fragmentation reports for easy monitoring.
Pros
- Powerful free version with core defrag and SSD optimization
- Extremely lightweight and portable with low resource usage
- Intuitive interface suitable for beginners
Cons
- Limited advanced features like scheduling in free edition
- Basic customization options compared to premium competitors
- No mobile or multi-OS support
Best For
Budget-conscious Windows users seeking a simple, reliable defragmenter without complex setup.
Pricing
Free version with essential features; Pro upgrade at $19.95/year or $29.95 lifetime license.
Puran Defrag
specializedFast and free defragmenter with optimization for shortcuts, registry, and hibernation files.
Four specialized defrag algorithms (Default, Name, Size, Version) for customized optimization beyond standard tools
Puran Defrag is a lightweight, free disk defragmentation tool for Windows that reorganizes fragmented files on HDDs and SSDs to improve system performance and access speeds. It supports automated scheduling, boot-time defragmentation for locked system files, and optimization modes tailored for different drive types. The software includes a simple dashboard for monitoring fragmentation levels and quick one-click defrags.
Pros
- Completely free with no usage limits
- Fast defragmentation speeds and low resource usage
- Boot-time defrag for system files and scheduling options
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels outdated
- Advanced features like email notifications locked behind Pro upgrade
- Limited official support and documentation
Best For
Budget-conscious Windows users seeking a simple, no-frills defragmentation tool for personal desktops or laptops.
Pricing
Free forever; optional Pro upgrade (~$20 one-time) for extras like automatic updates and more optimizations.
Glary Disk Defrag
specializedIntegrated disk defragmenter within Glary Utilities suite for quick scans and one-click optimization.
Boot Time Defrag for optimizing Windows-locked files
Glary Disk Defrag is a free Windows utility from Glarysoft that optimizes hard drive performance by defragmenting fragmented files and free space on HDDs and SSDs. It provides quick analysis, standard defrag, and boot-time defragmentation for system files that can't be optimized while Windows is running. As part of the Glary Utilities suite, it offers a straightforward interface for scheduling and customizing defrag operations to boost overall system speed.
Pros
- Completely free with no core feature limitations
- Intuitive interface suitable for beginners
- Boot-time defrag for locked system files
Cons
- Lacks advanced algorithms found in premium tools
- Occasional prompts to upgrade to Pro suite
- Less effective on very large drives compared to top competitors
Best For
Ideal for casual Windows users needing a simple, no-cost defragmentation tool without advanced needs.
Pricing
Free; optional Glary Utilities Pro upgrade at $19.97/year for extras.
MyDefrag
specializedScriptable open-source defragmenter offering customizable consolidation and optimization routines.
Powerful scripting engine allowing fully customizable defragmentation and optimization scripts.
MyDefrag is a free, powerful defragmentation and disk optimization tool for Windows, serving as the successor to JkDefrag with advanced algorithms that not only defragment files but also sort them by access patterns for optimal performance. It supports extensive scripting for custom optimization routines, boot-time defragmentation, and various analysis modes. Though no longer actively developed since 2012, it remains effective for NTFS drives and appeals to advanced users seeking granular control.
Pros
- Completely free with no limitations
- Advanced scripting for custom optimizations
- Highly efficient with low resource usage
Cons
- Outdated and clunky graphical interface
- No active development or updates
- Steep learning curve for non-experts
Best For
Advanced users and IT professionals needing scriptable, precise defragmentation without ongoing costs.
Pricing
Entirely free (public domain software).
Conclusion
The reviewed defrag tools showcase varied strengths, with Defraggler leading as the top choice, noted for its powerful, versatile performance in defragmenting entire drives, individual files, or free space with boot-time optimization. Auslogics Disk Defrag and Smart Defrag follow closely, offering advanced algorithms and automated scheduling respectively, making them strong alternatives for those with specific needs. Together, they highlight the best options for maintaining and boosting disk health.
Don’t miss out—try Defraggler first to unlock its seamless, customizable defragmentation and let your drives run as efficiently as possible.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison