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Disk Cleanup vs Defrag: Differences and Use Cases
Both improve the PCs performance but differ in a key aspect
4 min. read
Published onJuly 2, 2024
published onJuly 2, 2024
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Disk Cleanup and Disk Defragmentation(Defrag or Defragging)are two terms often used interchangeably when we talk about optimizing the PC’s performance. However, each has a specific purpose, quite different from another!
Disk Cleanup is a built-in utility that allows you to clear files on the PC and boost the available storage space. On the other hand, Disk Defrag reorganizes the data on the drive so that related files are stacked up close to one another, facilitating quick access.
What is the difference between Disk Cleanup vs Defrag?
What will happen if I do Disk Cleanup?
When you run Disk Cleanup, it will automatically list all the unnecessary files that can safely be removed and allow you to delete them, all within a matter of minutes!
When you select any file category from the list,Disk Cleanupshows a brief description, helping you identify which set of files may be useful.
Torun Disk Cleanup, pressWindows+Sto openSearch> typeDisk Cleanup> click on the relevant result > select the drive to clean > clickOK> tick checkboxes for the files to be deleted > clickOK> again run the utility and select the drive > chooseClean up system files> selectC:drive > similarly delete any unnecessary system files.
Is it good to defrag your computer?
Yes, periodically defragging the computer will remove fragmentation of data sets on the storage drive!
Todefragment a drive in Windows 11, pressWindows+Sto openSearch> typeDefragment and Optimize Drives> click the relevant result > select the drive to defragment > click onOptimize> wait for the process to complete.
You can alsoautomate disk defragmentation in Windows 11and set it to run automatically at a fixed interval.
Remember, fragmentation only occurs on HDDs in Windows PCs. As for SSDs and other operating systems like macOS, you don’t need to carry out defragmentation at all. Doing so won’t improve performance and can often prove counterproductive!
Should I Defrag or Disk Cleanup first?
You should first run Disk Cleanup and then defrag the drive. It will reduce the amount of data the OS has to defragment, reducing the time taken to complete the process.
Besides, for faster completion, scheduleDisk CleanupandDisk Defragto run when you are not actively using the computer.
Should I use third-party tools for Disk Cleanup and Disk Defrag?
Generally speaking, most of us don’t need third-party tools either to clear disk space or defrag the drive. Windows offers built-in utilities,Disk CleanupandOptimize drives, which can perform the function well!
However, if you want to perform advanced operations or modify the critical parameters, a third-party tool may come to aid. As for clearing disk space, take a look at ourtop picks forDisk Cleanupalternatives(includes free tools). Similarly, we have a curated list of thebest defrag software for Windows.
You now know all about Disk Cleanup vs Defrag, the key differences, applications, after-effects, benefits, and set up. With this information, you will be able tomake Windows 11 run faster than everand improve the disk’s performance and life span!
How frequently do you run Disk Defrag and Disk Cleanup? Share with our readers in the comments section.
More about the topics:Disk Cleanup,disk drive,Windows 11
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
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Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
