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Copy vs Xcopy vs Robocopy: What’s The Difference?

Among the three robocopy is the most advanced

4 min. read

Updated onAugust 16, 2024

updated onAugust 16, 2024

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When it comes to copying files in Windows, users often find themselves choosing between copy, xcopy, and robocopy. Each tool has its unique strengths and is suitable for different scenarios. Let’s dive into the ultimate guide for these file-copying tools.

Copy vs xcopy vs robocopy, which one should I use?

1. Using the copy command

This is a basic command and it can copy only one file or multiple files using a wildcard. It doesn’t support directories or subdirectories and other advanced features such as error handling, logging, or resuming.

2. Using the xcopy command

Unlike copy, xcopy allows you to copy directories and subdirectories, and thanks to the various options it can copy hidden files, exclude files, copy changed files, and more.

Keep in mind that this command can encounter issues, and several users reportedxcopy access denied messageon their PCs.

3. Using the robocopy command

Other robocopy options:

Robocopy is perfect for large-scale and complex copying tasks. It offers robust monitoring, retry mechanisms, and advanced options like multithreading and mirroring.

You can even use it toback up your files using Command Prompt, and we have a guide that will show you how to do that.

If we encounter any issues with robocopy, you might want to check our dedicated article and see what to do ifrobocopy is not copying files, so don’t miss it.

Which is better, xcopy or robocopy?

Robocopy offers more features, and as such is a better option than xcopy. If you’re performing simple tasks, then xcopy might be a better choice if you’re already familiar with it, but in terms of functionality, robocopy is a better choice.

Is xcopy obsolete?

Yes, xcopy is deprecated and replaced by robocopy. While you can still use xcopy, the latter offers better functionality.

What are the disadvantages Robocopy?

Robocopy has issues with larger files and it can’t handle them properly. Windows has limited memory that it can allocate to Robocopy, and if it uses all the memory issues will occur.

Should I use copy or xcopy?

Copy is a basic tool, and it doesn’t even copy directories, as such it offers extremely limited functionality, and it shouldn’t be used except for copying individual files.

If you’re looking for an advanced tool, you might want to learnwhat is rsyncand how to use it properly.

Understanding the strengths of each command can help you choose the right tool for your specific needs, and you can even use them totransfer data from one disk to another.

Regularly updating your backup routines and using the appropriate commands can save you from data loss and ensure smooth file management.

Copy vs Xcopy vs Robocopy: What’s The Difference?#

Copy vs xcopy vs robocopy, which one should I use?#

1. Using the copy command#

2. Using the xcopy command#

3. Using the robocopy command#

Which is better, xcopy or robocopy?#

Is xcopy obsolete?#

What are the disadvantages Robocopy?#

Should I use copy or xcopy?#