Best CCleaner Alternatives (2025 Edition)

Why Look Beyond CCleaner?

CCleaner was once the go-to utility for Windows cleanup. But recent years haven’t been kind.

• Privacy issues: Avast’s telemetry raised alarm bells
• Bundled software: Extra installs annoy users
• Annoying popups: Even in paid versions
• Aggressive registry cleaning: Can cause more harm than help

That’s why many users now seek safer, faster, and lighter CCleaner alternatives.

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Key Features to Look For

When choosing a system cleaner, focus on:

• Junk and temp file cleaning
• Registry fix (light use only)
• Startup manager
• Privacy erasers (browser/cache/history)
• Secure delete/wipe tools
• No background bloat or tracking

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Top CCleaner Alternatives Reviewed

1. BleachBit

Features:
Open-source cleaner that erases cache, cookies, logs, and unused files.

Pros:

• Free and open-source
• Linux + Windows support
• Strong privacy options

Cons:

• Interface feels basic
• No scheduling

Best for: Tech-savvy users wanting a lightweight and transparent tool

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2. Glary Utilities

Features:
One-click maintenance with over 20 tools including registry cleaning, disk analysis, and RAM booster.

Pros:

• All-in-one utility
• Easy for beginners
• Free version available

Cons:

• Ads in the free version
• Some tools feel redundant

Best for: Casual Windows users needing easy cleanup

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3. Wise Disk Cleaner

Features:
Fast junk file scanner and disk defragmenter with SSD support.

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Quick scanning
• Simple UI

Cons:

• Lacks deeper privacy tools

Best for: Lightweight file cleanup

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4. PrivaZer

Features:
Deep scan for privacy traces and secure deletion.

Pros:

• Detailed scan reports
• Secure erase with multiple standards
• Free for personal use

Cons:

• Slower scanning
• UI feels dated

Best for: Privacy-focused users and digital hygiene

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5. Cleanmgr+

Features:
Modern replacement for Microsoft’s deprecated Disk Cleanup tool.

Pros:

• Portable, no install
• Modern interface
• No ads or popups

Cons:

• Limited features vs full suites
• Windows-only

Best for: Fans of Microsoft’s Disk Cleanup utility

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6. Advanced SystemCare

Features:
One-click scan for junk files, RAM, startup apps, and spyware.

Pros:

• Polished UI
• Optional AI mode
• Extra tools (defrag, driver updater, etc.)

Cons:

• Some features behind paywall
• May push unrelated software

Best for: Beginners looking for an all-in-one PC care tool

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7. CCleaner

Features:
Basic cleaning, app uninstaller, browser cleaner, registry fix.

Pros:

• Recognizable brand
• Some features still solid
• Scheduled cleaning

Cons:

• Privacy issues in past
• Ads and background processes

Best for: Long-time users who don’t mind ads and limitations

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Comparison Table

Tool	Free	Registry Clean	Secure Wipe	OS Support	Best For
BleachBit	✅	No	✅	Win/Linux	Open-source, privacy
Glary Utilities	✅	✅	✅	Windows	All-in-one cleanup
Wise Disk Cleaner	✅	❌	❌	Windows	Simple, fast cleaning
PrivaZer	✅	✅	✅	Windows	Deep privacy scrubbing
Cleanmgr+	✅	❌	❌	Windows	Lightweight use
Advanced SystemCare	✅	✅	✅	Windows	Beginners
CCleaner	❌/✅	✅	✅	Windows/macOS	Long-term fans

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Best Free CCleaner Replacements

• BleachBit – open-source, transparent
• PrivaZer – secure file wiping and traces
• Cleanmgr+ – ultra-light alternative to Disk Cleanup

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Best Paid System Optimizers

• Glary Utilities Pro – added features, no ads
• Advanced SystemCare Pro – extra modules
• CCleaner Pro – subscription-based with monitoring

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Privacy and Security Tools

Tool	Secure Delete	Auto-Cleanup	Browser Privacy
BleachBit	✅	Partial	✅
PrivaZer	✅	✅	✅
CCleaner	✅	✅	✅
Advanced SystemCare	✅	✅	✅

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FAQs – Choosing the Right PC Cleaner

1. What’s the best free CCleaner alternative?
BleachBit is a top open-source option. For privacy, go with PrivaZer.

2. Is registry cleaning necessary?
Rarely. Use it with caution, or skip it entirely.

3. Does CCleaner still collect user data?
Some background activity and telemetry were reported; always check settings.

4. What’s the safest system cleaner?
Cleanmgr+ and BleachBit don’t overreach or bundle extras.

5. Can I clean SSDs with these tools?
Yes—but avoid defrag. Stick to junk cleaning and secure wipe features.

6. Are these safe to use on Windows 11?
Yes—all tools listed are compatible with Windows 11.

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Final Verdict – Which One’s Best for You?

You don’t need CCleaner to maintain your system anymore. Whether you prefer privacy (PrivaZer), open source (BleachBit), or a full suite (Glary Utilities)—2025 has cleaner, lighter, and safer alternatives.

If you’re still using CCleaner out of habit, it might be time to upgrade—without paying a cent.