Delete Duplicate Files in Windows(Full Guide for All Levels)

Just like carrying two umbrellas on a sunny day, keeping duplicate files is pointless. Here's how to clear duplicates out and keep your PC sharp. This guide offers a complete, structured overview of all effective methods, sorted by use case and technical comfort level.

Must-know about duplicated files

When duplicate files are created, their names typically remain the same as the original but include a number in parentheses before the file extension to differentiate them. 

For instance, a file named setup.exe may have duplicates like setup (1). exe, setup (2). exe; document. pdf: document (1). pdf, document (2). pdf, etc. They are often in the same folder, created by copying/downloading the same file multiple times, with the same size, same type, and same date modified. 

However, some duplicates may not be exact copies, they might have slight differences (e.g., edited versions). Identical names don't always mean identical content. You might delete the wrong version if you're unsure which one is the original or most up-to-date. Though iBoysoft Data Recovery can save them.

There are some safe practices before deleting: 

Spread these insights and help others delete duplicates in peace.

How to delete duplicate files in Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7

Duplicate files clutter our storage, waste disk space, and make it harder to manage documents, photos, or music. Whether using Windows 11, 10, 8, 8.1, or 7, there are many ways to detect and delete duplicate files.

Delete duplicates via File Explorer (manually)

This is simple and doesn't require extra tools, but it's slow for large folders. Best for small folders or obvious duplicates. 

Smart cleanup technique 1: Use Windows Libraries & Grouping

Then scan grouped files and delete extras.

Smart cleanup technique 2: Move-and-compare strategy 

Best for merging files from multiple drives or folders.

Delete duplicates through software solutions (smartly)

It may never occur to you that there are so many tools in the market that help you manage various kinds of files.

1. Use free duplicate file finders and removers

Best for general users with many duplicates across folders or drives. There are some choices for your reference:

Most of these are free and easy to use.

2. Use file sync tools with duplicate detection 

Tools like FreeFileSync and SyncBackFree can compare folder contents and highlight duplicates. You can preview and delete unneeded copies. This is great for organizing backup folders or syncing across drives.

3. Media-specific tools (photos, music, and videos) 

There are some photo and music management apps which is best for those who have large libraries of media files.

Ideal if your clutter is mostly media-related.

4. Use file comparison tools 

Best for similar files with subtle changes.

Perfect when working with code, drafts, or similar revisions.

5. Cloud & sync-based solutions 

You can also use OneDrive duplicate handling, which is useful if you already use cloud storage via OneDrive. Just upload files to OneDrive, it auto-renames duplicates like file(1) .jpg.

Want to learn how to use Power Automate to delete duplicates? Share this!

Bonus tip: Use iBoysoft Data Recovery to retrieve duplicates

Normally, some files can be mistakenly removed, or it takes a long time to remind you of their necessity. Plus, with no trace of these files in the Recycle Bin. How to recover the deleted files or data? 

Luckily, iBoysoft Data Recovery can recover deleted or lost files, restore data from corrupted, RAW, or formatted partitions—including BitLocker-encrypted drives—and fix RAW partitions or recover lost partitions. Here's how to use it:

Step 1: Download, launch iBoysoft Data Recovery, and then choose the Data Recovery module.

Step 2: Select the partition where you lost files and click Next to continue.

Step 3: After the scan completes, lost files will be listed. (If there are some files missing after scanning, return to the Data Recovery module and try Deep scan to find more files.)

Step 4: Preview the found files you once accidentally deleted.

Step 5: Select the needed files and click Recover to start recovery. (You can choose "Only show deleted files" option from the bottom dropdown menu.)

Related articles:

Cloud Storage vs. External SSD/SD Storage: Which is Better 

How to Delete All Partitions in Diskpart 

How to Delete Files from an SD Card on Windows Without Limit

Memory.dmp File Unveiled: To Delete or not to Delete

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