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For routine Windows cleanup without installing anything, start with Storage Sense, the built-in option that can automatically remove selected temporary files and Recycle Bin contents. If you want a dedicated free and open source cleaner with controls for applications and browsers, try BleachBit, available for Windows and Linux. Neither is a one-for-one replacement for every Disk Cleanup task, so choose based on what you want removed and how much control you need.
Which Disk Cleanup alternative should you use?
| Option | Best fit | How cleanup works | Scope and control |
|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Sense | Windows users who want routine cleanup managed by Windows | Can run automatically according to configured settings; by default, it runs when the device is low on space | Works on the system drive. Selected categories and settings determine what is removed. |
| BleachBit | Users who want a free and open source cleaner with application-level choices | You select cleanup categories, preview the proposed deletions, then run the cleanup | Supports Windows and Linux and includes system, application, and browser-related cleaners. |
| Disk Cleanup | Users who prefer the existing Windows utility or need it for a particular task | Use it when available; Microsoft still includes it in support guidance for some circumstances | It has not been declared removed from every Windows version. |
Microsoft does not publish controlled comparisons establishing which option reclaims more space, makes a PC faster, or is safest across all configurations. The practical difference is how cleanup is selected and managed, not a proven performance ranking.
Use Storage Sense for automatic Windows cleanup
Storage Sense is the simplest place to start if you want Windows to manage routine cleanup rather than install another program. Microsoft describes it as a way to automatically free space by removing selected items such as temporary files and Recycle Bin contents. Its defaults and schedule matter: Storage Sense runs when the device is low on space by default, but you can configure when it runs and which categories it handles.
Storage Sense operates on the system drive. Downloads and OneDrive or other cloud files are not cleaned unless you configure those categories. Check these settings before enabling automation, especially the Recycle Bin retention period, so you do not lose files you expected to keep. See Microsoft’s Storage Sense setup and category guidance.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Microsoft Learn characterizes Storage Sense as a modern automated cleanup feature, in contrast with cleanmgr.exe. That makes it a natural first choice for Windows-managed maintenance, but it does not make Storage Sense identical to Disk Cleanup. For a comparison of Microsoft’s descriptions, see Configure Storage Sense in Windows.
Use BleachBit when you want to choose application cleaners
BleachBit is a free and open source system cleaner for Windows and Linux. Its documented cleanup targets include caches, cookies, logs, recent-file lists, and temporary files. It also provides cleaner choices for Windows applications, so its scope can extend beyond routine Windows storage categories. The available options depend on the software and cleaners presented in your installation; do not assume every listed category is appropriate for your needs.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Download BleachBit from its official Windows download page.
- Open the cleaner list and select only the categories you intend to remove. Read the descriptions, particularly for browser data and recent-file lists.
- Choose the preview function before cleaning. Review the items BleachBit proposes to delete and change your selections if the preview includes anything you want to retain.
- Run the cleanup only after you are satisfied with the selected categories and preview.
BleachBit also documents a command-line interface, custom cleaners, and the ability to wipe empty space. Those advanced features are separate from the basic preview-and-clean workflow; consult the official BleachBit documentation before using them. The documented features do not establish that BleachBit removes more space or improves performance compared with Disk Cleanup.
When Disk Cleanup still makes sense
This is a guide to alternatives, not a reason to assume Disk Cleanup has disappeared. Microsoft continues to mention Disk Cleanup in its instructions for freeing drive space, including for devices without Storage Sense. Check Microsoft’s Windows drive-space guidance if Storage Sense is unavailable or you specifically need the older utility.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Take particular care before deleting Windows.old. Microsoft warns that removing it also removes the option to return to a previous Windows version. If you recently upgraded and may need to roll back, keep that consequence in mind before choosing a cleanup action.
Choose by the kind of control you want
- Choose Storage Sense if you want a built-in Windows option that can run automatically and you are comfortable configuring its categories and schedule.
- Choose BleachBit if you want a free and open source tool with explicit application and browser-related cleanup choices, and you are willing to inspect selections and preview deletions.
- Keep Disk Cleanup in consideration if it is available on your system and better suits a particular cleanup task.
These are different workflows, not interchangeable guarantees. Review what a tool is set to delete before allowing it to remove files, and do not treat a cleanup utility as a promise of a faster PC or a specific amount of recovered storage.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
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