CloneMaster 5.07

Overview

CloneMaster is the one and only program you need to take care of any duplicate files you have in your computer. In contrast to other software of this kind, it doesn’t search for files with the same filename, size, date last modified, CRC checksum and other properties, but it performs a byte-by-byte comparison. Normally, this would be a time consuming task, but CloneMaster has a fast and new algorithm implemented that finishes this operation quickly. Files with zero-byte length (empty files) and empty folders are also found and listed along with the rest of the duplicates, all of which can then be deleted. Let’s find out more.

Installation

No need to worry about the installation process as it is very short and easy to complete. Apart from the typical installation settings (installation directory, shortcuts etc.) there is nothing else to configure. It is 100% clean from viruses/malware/spyware and other kinds of software, like toolbars.

It runs smoothly under Windows XP, Vista and 7 (both 32 and 64-bit editions supported).

Interface

The interface is clean and neat. The toolbar at the top has 4 buttons: Scan Settings, Duplicate Files, Zero Byte Files and Empty Folders. Each one will take you to the screen with the corresponding features and functions. From the first one you can start a scan after settings the scan options (such as selecting the locations you want scanned) and the other 3 tabs will list different kinds of found items.

There is an “About” button as well, which has useful links and information about the product. You can also check for updates from there.

Pros

It is very easy to use the program, just choose the folders or drives you want to be included in the scan and click the Start button. Additional options include entering wildcards for specific file types you want to include/exclude in the scan, scan for hidden files/folders and also scan only for empty folders. You can pause the task and resume it at a later time.

You can see a list of Duplicate files, Zero Byte Files and Empty folders after the scan is complete by clicking on the buttons in the toolbar.

All files can be scanned, regardless of size or location. A byte-by-byte comparison is performed in order to find the truly identical files and not false positives.

A context menu entry is added when you install the program, allowing you to preview selected files, view their properties etc.

The duplicates list can be exported in .txt or HTML format, which can then be printed.

Cons

Very accurate program and no bugs whatsoever.

Alternatives

Duplicate Cleaner (paid and free) is a great tool to search and find duplicate files on your computer. It has many features and scan options, and with its stable functionality it deserves a spot in the top dupe-cleaning software. Other decent programs are CloneSpy (free) and DupKiller (free). For Linux, FSlint (free) is recommended.

Conclusion

With this software you can rest assured that your drive will stay clean from duplicates. Most people are not aware of how many duplicates they have that consume a lot of disk space, however CloneMaster can successfully find them and let you free up the space wasted.