Improve your disk defragmentation
Defragmentation tools are a great way to keep your Windows computer running quickly and efficiently. If you have a Windows PC running Windows 7 or older and using a hard disk, definitely check disk defragmentation. While Windows provides a free defragmentation tool, that doesn’t mean it’s the only or the best option. As system defragmentation can take a painfully long time to run, it is important to make sure you’re using software with the highest performance. You don’t want your computer being unnecessarily slowed down by software that is supposed to be speeding it up!
A free alternative to the standard Windows defragmentation tool
Defraggler is a worthy alternative to the standard Windows defragmentation tool.
Defraggler is an all-round better option than the Windows defragmentation software which comes as standard. Not only is the speed of defragmentation significantly reduced, it also comes with more features and a more in-depth statistical analysis at the end. Defraggler does have a premium version but there’s no need to upgrade. There are no limitations or “trial periods” with their free version. While there is competing freeware (free software) to choose from, like Buzzsaw or Smart Defrag, there isn’t much of a contest between the premium version and free option. Do bear in mind that running disk defragmenter software on a solid-state drive (SSD) could be damaging if done too frequently.
The speed of the disk defragmentation can actually be reduced by up to 30% using Defraggler. In one case, the program took less than 6 hours for 1TB on Windows 7. You may have grown used to the amount of time the standard software takes, but quicker defragmentation means you don’t need to keep your computer on for days on end.
As far as the functionality of the software goes, Defraggler will feel like a premium version in comparison to Windows. The biggest improvement is the ability to select specific files to be defragmented. If you already know where you are being slowed down, being able to directly target the source of the problems saves you having to do an entire disk defragmentation. This is such an intuitive feature to include, it seems strange Windows hasn’t already implemented into its own software. Defraggler’s main rivals (such as Auslogic) have all opted to differentiate themselves from the Windows version because of gaping holes in the functionality such as these.
Defraggler also trumps the standard Windows version when it comes to statistical feedback. You’ll be given a much more detailed breakdown on the current state of your disk on an easy-to-understand, color-coded map. This may just sound like a satisfying extra to be able to see but it is also incredibly useful if you want to optimize your system disk further or get a better understanding of your disk. It also gives you detailed information about the overall health of your drive.
This software is practical and straight-forward to use. There are no gizmos or flashing lights to distract you. It has a clean, simple layout which makes it very user-friendly. In essence, it manages not to oversell itself as so much software sometimes does in order to try and make themselves stand out. Just as in the standard Windows version, less in regards to layout is certainly more! You are also able to choose between a quick or a full scan, as with the Windows defragmenter. This is a really great option which works and they haven’t been afraid to keep what’s working the same!
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Where can you run this program?
Defraggler is only available for Windows computers, specifically Windows 7, 8.1, 10, Vista, and XP. There are both 32-bit and 64-bit editions, but it is not supported on tablets.
If you have a Mac, there is software available which can “crack” this program and allow you to use it. While this may be a temptation, there are a few reasons why Mac users should look elsewhere. First, the software has not been designed for use on a Mac so exactly how effective or damaging it will be to your computer is unknown. Second, many of the sites which offer such “help” are often just trying to get you to download malicious software. Steer well clear if you can’t be sure of the software or of where it’s coming from!
Is there a better alternative?
Defraggler is not the only option when it comes to alternative disk defragmentation software. Its biggest freeware rivals include Buzzsaw, Ultra Defragmenter, Smart Defrag, and Auslogics.
Admittedly, it’s hard to choose between these. They are all excellent alternatives to Windows’ standard defragmentation software. They all have slightly different strengths and weaknesses. One weakness of Defraggler is its speed. Of course, relative to Windows’ version, it is fast. The reality is you can still be sat watching the same amount of “percentage complete” for minutes at a time. In this respect, Auslogics or Smart Defrag take the edge.
There is no lightning speed for this software yet, even with the premium version. Until one such program appears, the number one software is determined more by functionality and usability which Defraggler does quite well. It is widely considered to be one of the biggest and most efficient disk defragmenters.
Our take
It fares well against its competition and has been around for a while. All of this means there are likely to be updates and improvements on the way as well. Overall, this is an excellent disk defragmenter!
Should you download it?
If you have a hard disk, then using a disk defragmenter is highly recommended. Although disk defragmentation can come pre-installed on your computer, it’s recommended to look at another option like Defraggler that optimizes the process, free of charge.
