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WinDirStat vs Microsoft PowerToys

The verdict

If you're a Windows user looking to reclaim disk space, go for WinDirStat. Its treemap feature helps you quickly identify large files, making it ideal for effective space management, especially on larger drives despite its dated interface and slow initial scans. It's perfect if you appreciate open-source software and are focused solely on decluttering your storage.

On the other hand, if you're a Windows power user wanting a suite of utilities to enhance your workflow, choose Microsoft PowerToys. It offers a collection of tools like FancyZones for window management and a rapid keyboard launcher, catering well to keyboard-driven users. However, it's less suitable if you're looking for a single-purpose application or if you're not using Windows.

Side-by-side comparison of WinDirStat, Microsoft PowerToys
WinDirStatMicrosoft PowerToys
PricingFreeFree
Platformswindowswindows
RatingNo reviewsNo reviews
AutomationNot supportedNative
Keyboard shortcutsNot supportedNative
Offline supportNativeNot supported
Open sourceNativeNative
Pros
  • Treemap makes large files instantly visible
  • Completely free and open source
  • Lightweight, no account or telemetry
  • Delete straight from the results
  • Many genuinely useful utilities in one install
  • FancyZones brings real tiling to Windows
  • PowerToys Run is a fast keyboard launcher
  • Free, open source, and maintained by Microsoft
Cons
  • Dated interface
  • Initial scan is slow on very large drives
  • Windows only
  • Windows only
  • Grab-bag of tools rather than one focused app
  • Some modules are more polished than others
Ideal for
  • windows_users_reclaiming_space
  • open_source_advocates
  • windows_power_users
  • keyboard_driven_workflows
  • open_source_advocates
Avoid if
  • want_a_modern_polished_ui
  • need_cross_platform
  • want_a_single_purpose_tool
  • not_on_windows
WinDirStat

See what's eating your disk space

Visit WinDirStat
Microsoft PowerToys

Power-user utilities Windows should ship with

Visit Microsoft PowerToys
Have a specific use case? Get a tailored recommendation