Eraser
Eraser: A capable free shredder for Windows, with scheduling and customizable overwrite methods. Ranked #5 of 26 in Secure File Shredding Software by our editors (6.9/10); pricing: Free plan; best for free users wanting scheduled open-source shredding.
At a glance
- Editor score6.9 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forFree users wanting scheduled open-source shredding
- Free planYes
- Paid fromNone
- Free-space shreddingYes
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Shreds files, folders, deleted data, free space, and recycle bins
- Supports recurring tasks and Windows Explorer context-menu integration
- Offers multiple overwrite standards and custom erasure methods
Where it doesn't
- Available only for Windows
- Focused on local desktop data erasure
- Multiple build types may require choosing between stable, beta, and nightly releases
Our verdict on Eraser
Eraser is a free, open-source utility for permanently removing sensitive data from Windows systems. It can securely overwrite files and folders, unused disk space, previously deleted data, and recycle-bin contents. The product is aimed at individuals and organizations that need local desktop file-shredding capabilities, particularly users who want scheduled erasure tasks without a paid plan. Windows Explorer context-menu integration also gives it a direct place in everyday file-management workflows.
Its feature coverage is broader than basic file deletion. Eraser supports recurring scheduled tasks, so users can configure repeated shredding rather than handling every operation manually. It also includes multiple overwrite standards, including DoD methods, alongside custom erasure methods. That combination gives users control over how erasure tasks are configured, while support for free-space and previously deleted data addresses data that is no longer visible in ordinary folders. The published stable build is version 6.2.0.2996, dated 2025-04-04, with beta and nightly builds also listed for download.
The main constraint is platform coverage: Eraser is a Windows utility and does not support macOS or Linux. That makes it a focused choice for Windows environments rather than a cross-platform shredding option. Users who need file, folder, free-space, deleted-data, or recycle-bin erasure with recurring scheduling should find its scope well matched to those needs. Users working across macOS or Linux, or those seeking a broader multi-platform data-erasure product, should choose an alternative with support for those operating systems.
Eraser pricing
Eraser fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | None |
| Free-space shredding | Yes |
| Folder shredding | Yes |
| Scheduled shredding | Yes |
| Shredding standards | Custom |
| Windows support | Yes |
| macOS support | No |
| Linux support | No |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | besteraser.com |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Eraser
- D-Secure File EraserA broad enterprise erasure toolkit with automation, APIs, certificates, and endpoint integrations.8.9
- BitRaser File EraserManaged, cross-platform erasure with scheduled wiping and signed reports.7.9
- SysTools File ShredderBroad desktop shredding for buyers who need file, drive, and free-space wiping.7.7
Eraser vs the competition
- Eraser vs D-Secure File Eraser
- Eraser vs BitRaser File Eraser
- Eraser vs SysTools File Shredder
- Eraser vs O&O SafeErase
- Eraser vs BCWipe Total WipeOut
- Eraser vs ASCOMP Secure Eraser
Compare Eraser with any tool side by side →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026
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