CleanMyMac offers junk removal, malware protection, speed boosts, and app management in one tool.

The new version 5 brings a fresh UI and brings back Space Lens for visual storage analysis.

Some overlap with built-in macOS tools, but more powerful and user-friendly.

It’s a paid tool from $39.95/year — you get 10% off with code THESWEETBITS.

It’s a popular myth that Macs don’t slow down. However, most people realize this idea is wrong after using a Mac for more than a year. Like other devices, macOS devices also slow down, and part of it is software. It’s really a let-down that you cannot easily upgrade your RAM or storage as this happens.

So, what do you do when you have an old, slowed-down Mac? CleanMyMac claims to deal with this issue.

About CleanMyMac

CleanMyMac from MacPaw is a fully-fledged Mac cleaning and optimization suite. It lets you get rid of junk and problematic elements from your Mac and speed up real-world performance.

You get multiple modules to manage different aspects of your Mac, such as Cleanup, Protection, Performance, Applications, etc.

This way, CleanMyMac aims to get your Mac working at full speed so that you can avoid a pricey upgrade.

Features Highlight:

• Detect and remove junk, temporary files, universal binaries, and other avoidable stuff from your Mac.
• Use the Moonlock engine to detect and remove malware from your Mac and schedule scans.
• Speed up your Mac, including the startup time and multitasking experience.
• Monitor, remove, and update the apps you installed on your Mac.
• Visualize how the storage space on your Mac is used through interactive methods.
• Get rid of large, duplicate, and unnecessary files from your SSD.
• Keep track of your Mac and its health, thanks to on-time notifications and quick overviews.

The Latest Version: CleanMyMac 5

CleanMyMac X became CleanMyMac in October 2024. This version offered a redesigned interface and added features like Duplicate Finder and Mac Health Score, but got rid of some, like File Shredder and Space Lens. It also made macOS 11 Big Sur the minimum required version to run the optimization suite.

As of June 2025, however, CleanMyMac 5.1 has reintroduced Space Lens, an interactive way to visualize how your Mac utilizes storage space. We loved this change and have been testing it out to see if it works better.

From the Founder

“Having developed macOS software for over 16 years, we’ve learned that every Mac holds a unique universe within. To help our users to gain more control over their digital world, we’ve transformed CleanMyMac into a comprehensive Mac care solution.

The new CleanMyMac 5 introduces the most significant change we’ve made in the last six years, offering a fresh, modern design more attuned to users’needs. This is more than just a visual refresh, though, it’s the foundation for the product’s future.”

– Oleksandr Kosovan, Founder & CEO of MacPaw

Our Hands-on CleanMyMac Review

MacPaw projects CleanMyMac as one of the must-have macOS apps for everyone. It is indeed so if you use your Mac for more than browsing the web and Word/PowerPoint.

We’re specializing in the Apple ecosystem, so we take full advantage of our MacBook Air for testing and multitasking. At any given time, we’re testing a number of apps that we have to write about. Among other things, this situation results in a lot of temporary files and junk. We often have to install apps that are not available on the App Store as well.

By these standards alone, our situation allows us to check whether all the modules on CleanMyMac work as they claim to. We can also help you understand the real-world impact of the tool by comparing how snappy our Mac is after using CleanMyMac 5 for weeks.

We’ll also tell you whether CleanMyMac can replace the many utilities you may need to speed up your Mac.

Installation and Setup

Installing and setting up CleanMyMac is a simple process for the most part. The installation is effortless, and the app does not ask for unnecessary permissions. Instead, individual modules will ask for respective system permissions when you open them. It’s a nice touch to see from a privacy standpoint. You also get to choose whether CleanMyMac runs in the background. You can also launch the app whenever necessary.

User Interface

CleanMyMac has had a great UI design from the beginning. However, the latest update has brought a sense of simplicity to the game. The entire app is easy to navigate, and the user does not have to choose between too many options. Instead, we felt the UI improved the overall workflow.

When you get started, you can either go for Smart Scan or choose a specific module. Either way, you would need to wait for a few seconds as CleanMyMac scans your Mac. After these scans, you get a bunch of steps that you can review and execute. As we said, you may need to provide the permissions or quit some apps.

Smart Scan is a great option when you want to do everything to speed up your Mac. You get an overview of actionable data through a single click. CleanMyMac lets you review every step, and this feature makes a lot of sense when you want to remove apps/files or control what changes are made. After the review, you can sit back and relax while CleanMyMac does its job.

In a few seconds, you will have a faster, cleaner Mac. We feel the UX design is as straightforward as it gets.

Core Features Evaluation

Here’s what we thought about the core features of CleanMyMac.

• Cleanup

The Cleanup module of CleanMyMac searches your entire Mac to find potential elements that slow down performance and take up storage space. It does not address user files. Instead, you get an idea about things like system junk, caches, trash bins, additional binaries, document versions, etc. CleanMyMac also gives you an estimate of how much space you can save with each element.

This module does a great job of shrinking the System Data folder, which you may have seen. It has been a space-saver from day one. Whenever we feel the storage space is low, we run the module, and it almost always lets us save a couple of GB of space.

• Protection

The Protection module on CleanMyMac can protect your Mac from malware consistently. You get to choose between three scanning modes: Quick, Balanced, and Deep. Your option depends on how effective you need the scan to be and the time you want to spend. But the Protection module does more than detect malware.

It conveniently provides data such as the number of apps with mic and camera access, temporary files, and recent items. You can easily revoke these permissions and restore your peace of mind. We cannot provide our experience here, as my Mac has remained malware-free most of the time.

However, given how Macs are becoming the new target of malware attacks, it does not hurt to scan your Mac once in a while. We loved the options to configure the Scan Mode, Scan options, and the preferences for malware monitoring.

We’re better off knowing that the malware monitoring system will be scanning the DMG files and attachments we come across.

• Performance

The Performance module essentially recommends maintenance tasks that can speed up your Mac and boost its multitasking performance. Sure, you can do all these tasks manually, but that process would take more than a few minutes. Instead, you can use the module to run maintenance tasks, select login items, and get rid of background items.

We always find the interface better than the macOS Preferences page. This module perhaps has the most significant role in speeding up your Mac. This module probably has the highest success in speeding up an old Mac.

• Applications

The Applications module of CleanMyMac will scan your Applications folder and suggest options for removal and updates. It can also help you remove unused applications and application leftovers. We use this feature the most because we end up installing too many apps but forget to remove them. This module offers a quick overview of what needs to be done.

It’s further impressive that you can update apps that you installed from non-App Store sources. This feature is a real time-saver for many. We often use this module to remove application leftovers and installation files that stay on our Mac.

• My Clutter

My Clutter is another super-useful module of CleanMyMac. This single module can help you get rid of large, duplicate, and similar files from your Mac. We recommend using this module more frequently if you deal with photos or other media formats. This core feature is quite effective in finding duplicates even if you have used different names and file sizes.

Overall, This module is great for reclaiming storage and tidying up scattered files.

• Space Lens

We found the newly re-introduced Space Lens to be better than previous versions. It integrates the new UI that CleanMyMac debuted in October 2024. Like other modules, Space Lens starts with a thorough scan of your Mac’s hard drive. You can also choose to scan a specific folder if you wish.

In a second, CleanMyMac will show a visual representation of how the storage space is used. On the right-hand side, you can see bubbles that represent directories and the space they consume. The left-hand side shows a list of folders based on their size.

You can click on these bubbles to explore subfolders and directories. This interactive method makes it easy to understand the storage space hogs on your Mac. For instance, our Application Support folder takes up lots of space, and we need to do something about it. It is easier since we can select and delete many folders at once.

During testing, Space Lens quickly flagged our Application Support and MobileSync/Backup folders as massive space hogs—these are areas even power users often forget. We appreciated how the zoomable map allowed us to drill down and remove unwanted device backups from long-gone iPhones.

A Word on CleanMyMac Menu

If you don’t want to shift back and forth between an app and CleanMyMac, you can have CleanMyMac run a menu bar widget. It’s called CleanMyMac Menu and offers quick access to common tasks, such as freeing up RAM and clearing up storage. It also provides some quick info, such as network speed, battery life, and a list of connected devices.

We recommend checking out this feature if you like a quick-and-easy way to keep track of your Mac’s specs as well as performance.

Performance Impact

As we mentioned, different modules of CleanMyMac have different impacts on the performance of your Mac.

It’s up to you whether you want to keep CleanMyMac running in the background. However, we have formed a habit of launching the app whenever we find our MacBook Air a little sluggish. Almost every time, a thorough scan using the app makes things better, too.

Countless reviews of CleanMyMac also reveal the same idea. This is particularly the case when you have an old and low-configuration Mac at your disposal. In these situations, you have a better chance of getting rid of junk and speeding up the performance.

In most cases, you’d notice the performance impact of CleanMyMac on your Mac. However, it may not be the case if your system has an overkill configuration with more than enough RAM and processing power.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Comprehensive cleaning tools effectively free up disk space.
• User-friendly interface accessible to all technical levels.
• Performance optimization enhances system responsiveness.
• Simplifies application uninstallation and updates.
• Privacy protection features maintain user confidentiality.

Cons:

• No real-time antivirus scanning like traditional security software.
• The performance boost may be minimal on newer Macs.
• Some tools overlap with what macOS already offers.

Pricing and Value

CleanMyMac is a paid tool, and you can get a license starting at $39.95 per year. A one-time payment option is also available for $119.95. MacPaw provides discounts when purchasing multiple licenses.

For TheSweetBits readers, MacPaw is offering an exclusive 10% discount. Simply use the coupon code THESWEETBITS at checkout here.

If you’d like to try the app first, a 7-day free trial is available, providing access to all features. MacPaw also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to request a refund if CleanMyMac doesn’t meet your expectations.

Alternatively, CleanMyMac is also available through a Setapp subscription, which includes over 200 other apps.

Value Proposition

Let’s say that you have a relatively older Mac. Of course, not everyone can upgrade to the latest chip when it is out. It means you need to find ways to salvage the best out of it. In such an instance, it makes sense to get a CleanMyMac license and use the app now and then.

Even if your Mac isn’t particularly slow, using this cleaner-optimizer utility can improve the experience with macOS. So, we’d say it offers pretty great value.

And if you’re wondering about the company behind it — MacPaw was named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies in 2025, a recognition that underscores the team’s dedication to building smart, user-focused software that stands the test of time.

Tech Specs

System Requirements:

• Operating System: macOS 11 Big Sur (or later)
• Processor:Intel or Apple Silicon processor
• Minimum Free Disk Space: 320 MB
• Minimum Display Resolution: 1280 x 800 pixels

Supported macOS Versions:

• Sequoia 15
• Sonoma 14
• Ventura 13
• Monterey 12
• Big Sur 11
• Catalina 10.15 (Not Supported)

Note Regarding Mac App Store Version

The Mac App Store version of CleanMyMac offers various cleaning and optimization tools, but it has limitations due to Apple’s App Store guidelines, which restrict certain features:

• Smart Scan: The Speed scanner is replaced with a Large & Old Files scanner.
• System Junk: Categories like Xcode Simulators, System Logs, and Language Files are unavailable.
• Privacy Features: Management of Wi-Fi Networks and Safari Cookies is restricted.
• Optimization Tools: You can view Launch Agents and Login Items, but enabling or disabling them is not permitted.
• Uninstaller Limitations: It cannot remove binaries of App Store applications but can reset them.
• CleanMyMac Menu: Certain hardware monitoring features and real-time malware monitoring are unavailable.

For full access to all features, consider purchasing CleanMyMac directly from the MacPaw Store or Setapp.

Security FAQs

Is CleanMyMac safe to download and use?

Absolutely. CleanMyMac is safe to download from reputable sources such as the MacPaw website or the Mac App Store. It has been verified by Apple and has a solid track record of reliability among users.

Is it safe to give CleanMyMac Full Disk Access?

Yes, granting CleanMyMac Full Disk Access is completely safe. The app is notarized by Apple, which ensures it is from a trusted developer and free from malicious code. This access allows CleanMyMac to perform essential cleanup tasks effectively while keeping your data secure.

What safeguards are in place during cleanup?

CleanMyMac employs a comprehensive Safety Database that contains rules and exceptions tailored to different macOS versions and applications. This database is continuously updated to prevent accidental data removal, ensuring that only unnecessary files are targeted during cleanup.

Can I trust CleanMyMac with my important files?

Yes, CleanMyMac is designed to keep your important files intact. By default, it only suggests removing automatically generated system or app-related data, ensuring no personal files are deleted unless you explicitly choose to do so.

How does CleanMyMac protect my privacy?

MacPaw respects user privacy and does not transfer personal data beyond your Mac. While it collects analytic data to improve the app, this is done in accordance with GDPR and a strict Privacy Policy. You can use the Protection module to erase unwanted traces of your online activity without affecting your actual files.

Is CleanMyMac effective against malware?

Yes, CleanMyMac features robust malware protection powered by the Moonlock Engine. This tool scans for various types of malware, including viruses and adware, ensuring your Mac remains secure. Regular updates to its malware database help protect against emerging threats.

Final Notes

While it has some minor shortcomings, CleanMyMac is a significant investment that all Mac users should use. As it combines the multiple aspects of performance optimization and protection, you don’t need to keep two apps running at the same time. We also like that the developers behind MacPaw keep adding new features to the package.

Explore more about CleanMyMac on the official Macpaw website.

<p>The post CleanMyMac: A Revamped Power Tool for Your Mac (2025 Review) first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

One such tool we came across – MacKeeper – a comprehensive app designed to keep your Mac both clean and secure. We’ve tested it extensively, and here’s what you need to know.

What is MacKeeper?

Developed by Clario Tech, MacKeeper is much more than just a Mac cleaning tool. It’s an all-in-one suite designed to improve your Mac’s performance while protecting your data and privacy. With its latest version, MacKeeper 7, it now boasts native support for Apple Silicon (M1+ chips) processors, ensuring optimized performance and energy efficiency for modern Macs.

As the Clario team puts it:

“Our purpose is to create a safe digital environment for Mac users and to help them get the most out of their hardware. In other words, we want people to enjoy their Macs without a single worry.”

Getting Started with MacKeeper

Installing MacKeeper is quick and straightforward. We downloaded it from the official website, and within minutes, we had the app up and running. Note that MacKeeper requires macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or later to function.

The setup is intuitive, and for most users, it’s a plug-and-play experience. It asks for only the necessary permissions—such as scanning important folders—making the setup process hassle-free. Once installed, the app works seamlessly in the background, sending you timely reminders to scan for issues or perform maintenance.

Beyond its intuitive interface, MacKeeper 7 delivers an even faster and more sustainable user experience, optimizing system resources to ensure smooth operation without draining your battery.

For instance, if you connect to a public Wi-Fi network, you’ll get a prompt to activate the built-in VPN. Scanning reminders are frequent, ensuring that your Mac stays free from threats like spyware and ransomware.

There’s also a menu-bar interface for quick access to the features you’ve enabled, allowing you to monitor your system’s health in real-time.

Our Experience with MacKeeper

We tested every feature of MacKeeper to see how it could improve the performance and security of our Mac. The app’s dashboard, called Find & Fix, is where everything starts. This section offers a one-click solution to scan your Mac for issues, and then allows you to fix those issues immediately.

The best part? It’s simple. With just one click, MacKeeper does the following:

• Enables antivirus protection to scan for malware.
• Cleans junk files and residual items to free up space.
• Optimizes the system for a noticeable performance boost.
• Checks for privacy issues like potential data breaches.

We love how this single button gives a quick overview of our Mac’s health and security. While exploring subsections in detail is great, the all-in-one dashboard does the job for most users.

# Security

When it comes to security, MacKeeper doesn’t cut corners. It offers two key features:

• Antivirus: You can manually scan for potential threats or enable real-time protection, which is designed to use minimal system resources—so your Mac won’t slow down.
• Adware Cleaner: We tested this by installing potential adware on our Mac, and it successfully removed the malicious apps without any issues.

The real-time antivirus protection is particularly valuable, as it keeps your Mac safe from malware without noticeable system lag.

# Cleaning

MacKeeper offers several utilities to help you declutter and optimize your Mac:

• Junk Cleaner: It scans for log files, caches, mail attachments, and other unnecessary files, including a new category of Installation Files (DMG, PKG, etc.), all of which can accumulate over time. We were surprised by how much junk it found, even after using other cleaning tools.
• Smart Uninstaller: Completely removes apps and their leftover files. This feature is handy for those who want to get rid of unwanted software without leaving any trace behind.
• Duplicate Finder: Frees up space by removing unnecessary duplicate files—whether images, documents, or videos. Going beyond macOS’s built-in photo management, it not only detects exact copies but also visually similar images, identifying duplicates based on content, not just file name or metadata. This helps you declutter while preserving the best versions.

# Performance

To ensure optimal performance, MacKeeper offers several performance utilities:

• Memory Cleaner: Instantly frees up memory by closing apps that are hogging RAM, helping speed up your system.
• Login Items Manager: Lets you control which apps start when you power on your Mac, improving boot-up speed.
• Update Tracker: Alerts you when apps installed from non-MAS sources need updating, with MacKeeper 7 offering a more varied and comprehensive app update tracker to help you stay on top of security updates and new features.

During our testing on an M4 MacBook Air, we noticed a significant performance improvement in both speed and system responsiveness.

# Privacy

MacKeeper goes beyond traditional cleaning tools with several features designed to protect your privacy:

• Private Connect (VPN): Built into the app, this VPN lets you browse securely on public networks. MacKeeper 7 features a redesigned Private Connect tool, offering an even more intuitive and personalized experience, providing peace of mind when connected to Wi-Fi hotspots.
• StopAd: An ad blocker that works across Safari and Chrome. While it might not be as powerful as some dedicated ad blockers, it gets the job done for basic protection.
• ID Theft Guard: This feature notifies you if your personal information has been involved in a data breach, keeping you aware of potential security threats.

These privacy features make MacKeeper stand out, providing an extra layer of protection that’s often overlooked in other Mac cleaners.

Customer Support

We were consistently impressed by MacKeeper’s customer support. You can reach their tech support team through multiple methods, including live chat and an international toll-free number. Crucially, you can be assured you’re talking to a real person at the other end – a fact we rigorously tested and confirmed.

Beyond standard support, MacKeeper offers a ‘Premium Services’ section within the app itself. If a ‘Find & Fix’ session doesn’t resolve your issue, this feature allows you to schedule a one-on-one appointment and get personalized solutions for your Mac.

We tried this, and MacKeeper’s tech support was remarkably quick to transfer our chat to a live technician. It’s impressive to chat with an expert directly from within the MacKeeper app. The expert also offered to set up a remote connection to analyze our Mac better and fix issues.

While the remote connection was helpful, we personally prefer the support team to listen to the user’s initial problem description more thoroughly before initiating a remote access request. However, the overall responsiveness and efficacy of the support were highly commendable.

Trustworthiness

Now, let’s address MacKeeper’s reputation, which is a slightly different story.

In the past, MacKeeper faced accusations of aggressive marketing and questionable practices regarding pricing and subscriptions. However, based on our weeks of extensive testing in 2025, we can confidently state that the current version of MacKeeper has shed this legacy.

The app is legitimately up-to-date, transparent, and designed with user privacy and security in mind. We also cross-referenced numerous other user and expert reviews, all of which corroborate that MacKeeper is now an entirely trustworthy and effective Mac optimization software utility.

So, if you’re asking whether MacKeeper is legit in 2025, the answer is a resounding Yes. It remains one of the most legitimate and effective ways to clean and secure your Mac. It’s truly time to move past its historical reputation and assess the tool based on its current performance.

Pricing and Subscriptions

MacKeeper offers a free plan with basic features, including malware scanning and real-time protection for one month. To access premium features like the VPN, ID Theft Guard, and priority support, you’ll need a paid plan.

Here’s a breakdown of the standard pricing:

• 1-month plan: $10.95
• 12-month plan: $5.95/month
• 12-month plan for 3 Macs: $7.45/month

And, don’t forget the MacKeeper Deal:

Right now, you can save up to 40% on MacKeeper’s premium plans with a special coupon code! This limited-time offer allows you to experience the full power of this all-in-one app at a significant discount. Time is running out, so grab this deal before it ends!

Even at its regular price, the value MacKeeper offers is reasonable. You get a well-rounded suite of tools for performance and privacy protection, which makes it a great deal for Mac users. The current special offer makes it an even more compelling choice.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• All-in-one solution for cleaning, optimization, and security.
• Easy setup and minimal system impact.
• Comprehensive privacy tools (VPN, ad blocker, ID theft protection).
• Affordable pricing for premium features.
• Responsive customer support with live chat and remote help.

Cons:

• Legacy reputation due to past controversies with pricing.
• No system info tracker in the menu bar (meaning you can’t quickly monitor live resource usage without opening the main app).

FAQs

Is MacKeeper safe to use?

Yes, MacKeeper is completely safe and highly trustworthy to use. Our extensive testing confirmed it poses no security risks to your Mac. To further back this up, MacKeeper boasts several key certifications and achievements, including notarization by Apple, and certifications from App Esteem and AV-TEST, ensuring it meets rigorous security and compliance standards for security apps.

Is MacKeeper a virus?

No, MacKeeper is not a virus. While it faced historical reputation challenges, it has undergone a significant transformation. MacKeeper’s code has never contained anything malicious designed to replicate or damage your system. Instead, it offers robust security features like real-time antivirus protection against actual viruses, malware, and adware. Its legitimacy is further confirmed by Apple’s notarization and certifications from independent labs

Does MacKeeper work? Do I really need it for my Mac?

Yes, MacKeeper works effectively. While macOS has built-in features, a dedicated tool like MacKeeper offers a more thorough and automated approach to maintenance. It saves you time and effort by efficiently finding and removing junk, optimizing performance, and providing essential security features. It’s not strictly “obligatory” in the sense that your Mac won’t function without it, but MacKeeper is a highly beneficial tool that makes keeping your Mac clean, fast, and secure significantly easier than manual efforts.

Final Words

MacKeeper is a powerful, all-in-one solution for keeping your Mac clean, fast, and secure. With robust privacy features like a VPN and ID Theft Guard, as well as effective cleaning and optimization tools, it’s a standout choice for Mac users in 2025.

Though it carries some baggage from its past, MacKeeper is now an up-to-date and legitimate Mac optimization tool. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to improve your Mac’s performance and protect your data, MacKeeper is definitely worth considering.

For more details, visit official MacKeeper site.

<p>The post MacKeeper: Features, Privacy, Price & Full Review (2025 Edition) first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

Why It’s Sweet

Hyperspace isn’t just another cleanup tool – it’s a storage savior that works its magic using APFS (Apple File System) technology. Here’re some sweet features:

• Smart Scanning: Hyperspace meticulously scans your selected folders, identifying files with identical content, even if they have different names or locations.
• APFS Cloning: Instead of deleting duplicate files, Hyperspace utilizes APFS cloning. This technique allows multiple files to share the same data blocks while maintaining separate metadata. As John Siracusa, the developer, notes, “The standard macOS file system, APFS, has the ability to create multiple files that each have their own metadata but that share a single copy of the data. Since data is usually much larger than metadata for any file of a nontrivial size, this saves disk space.”
• Space Reclamation: By consolidating identical data into a single shared block, Hyperspace frees up the space previously occupied by duplicates – all without altering your visible file structure.
• Seamless Access: Your files remain fully accessible and behave as if they’re independent, ensuring your workflow stays uninterrupted.
• Non-Destructive Process: Unlike traditional cleanup tools, Hyperspace doesn’t delete anything. It simply optimizes how your data is stored. Siracusa emphasizes this appeal: “Using APFS clones, my app could reclaim disk space without removing any files! As a digital pack rat, this appealed to me immensely.”
• Easy to Use: Simply download Hyperspace from the Mac App Store, point it at a folder, and let it analyze your storage. The app will report how much space can be reclaimed before you commit to unlocking its full functionality.
• Affordable and Flexible Pricing: You can try Hyperspace for free to see potential savings. Unlocking its full capabilities costs $9.99/month, $19.99/year, or $49.99 for a lifetime license.
• Optimized for APFS: Hyperspace works best on macOS volumes using APFS, making it ideal for users with large media libraries or older Macs that have accumulated redundant files over time.

How It Works

Getting started with Hyperspace is quick and straightforward, allowing you to reclaim disk space in just a few steps. You can download the app directly from the Mac App Store, and installation takes only a moment. Once installed, Hyperspace guides you through the process of selecting folders for analysis. You simply point the app toward the directories where you suspect duplicates or redundant data may be lurking.

After scanning, Hyperspace provides a detailed report of how much space can be reclaimed. This preview feature is incredibly helpful, as it allows you to see the potential savings before making any changes. If you’re satisfied with the results, you can unlock the full functionality of Hyperspace by choosing one of its flexible pricing plans—monthly, yearly, or lifetime options are available to suit your needs.

Once activated, Hyperspace uses Apple’s APFS technology to perform its magic. The app identifies files with identical data and consolidates them into a single shared block using APFS cloning. This process is entirely non-destructive—your files remain fully accessible and behave as if they are independent. Even better, Hyperspace works seamlessly in the background, ensuring that your workflow remains uninterrupted while it optimizes your storage.

As Siracusa explains, “If I could find files that had the same content but were not clones of each other, I could convert them into clones that all shared a single instance of the data on disk.” This realization led him to develop Hyperspace, which can reclaim dozens of gigabytes of space without removing any files.

Key Considerations

Some users may worry about safety when modifying file structures. Rest assured that Hyperspace is designed with reliability in mind:

• The app uses Apple’s native APFS technology, ensuring compatibility and safety.
• The process is entirely non-destructive—your original file structure remains intact.

It’s also important to note that Hyperspace won’t identify unused files or other types of clutter. For broader system optimization, consider pairing it with tools like DaisyDisk (for visualizing large files) or CleanMyMac (for removing junk and optimizing performance).

User Experience Example

As one user on TidBITS noted:

“I have been playing with Hyperspace and the documentation really is fabulous.

I started cautiously with some smaller folders but Hyperspace is so fast on my MacBook Pro, M3 Pro that I eventually just chose my entire user directory and it scanned it in under a minute. I have about 700GB on my 1TB internal SSD.

Initial savings were <2GB using the default settings but the trick is to add file types that are specific to your domain. When I added FileMaker and Vectorworks files, some of the largest, non-media files on my system, Hyperspace was able to find an additional 6GB of savings. I’ll keep sniffing around and see what else might be included.

The great thing about this is that I want those duplicated files where they are because of their asso’t have to waste space on them, back them up, etc. If they diverge later because of my edits, they are there.”

Hyperspace Pricing

Hyperspace offers flexible pricing options to suit every user:

• $9.99/month
• $19.99/year
• $49.99 for a lifetime license

You can try it for free to see how much space you can reclaim before committing to a plan.

In a Nutshell

Hyperspace is a new game-changer for Mac users struggling with limited storage. By reclaiming disk space without sacrificing files, it offers a non-destructive and efficient solution that feels almost magical. Whether you’re managing large media projects or just want to tidy up your disk space, Hyperspace is an essential tool worth exploring.

For more details, visit https://hypercritical.co/hyperspace/

<p>The post Hyperspace: A New Take on macOS Disk Space Reclaim first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

But you need more than a powerful recovery engine when you need to recover a variety of data types that you have deleted or lost from your Mac. Most importantly, you need an intuitive UI with additional utilities.

This is where Disk Drill enters the scene.

What does Disk Drill do?

Disk Drill is a complete data recovery solution designed for Mac and Windows. A product from Cleverfiles, it lets you recover data that you have deleted/lost/damaged from a variety of devices and drives. The Mac app is a great way to scan the macOS drive or your iPhone/Android smartphone.

Compared to the typical data recovery utilities we come across, Disk Drill offers a refined set of features. For starters, you get an intuitive UI that everyone can use without any prior experience.

Key features

You get a comprehensive set of features with Disk Drill for Mac. All these improve your chances of getting data back from a compatible device.

• Disk Drill for Mac lets you recover a variety of file formats, including documents, photos, music, video, compressed files, etc. It can scan for and reconstruct over 400 file formats.
• You can recover data from your Mac or external storage devices, including HDDs, SSDs, tablets, iPads, memory cards, digital cameras, and RAID arrays.
• A Scan and Preview option makes Disk Drill suitable for recovering specific files from an entire drive. It means you do not need to recover anything you don’t need.
• Thanks to session management and categorization options, Disk Drill for Mac can handle additional data recovery tasks easily.
• Disk Drill for Mac also ships with additional utilities such as Disk Health, Mac Cleanup, Data Backup, Data Protection, and Recovery Drive.

Key specs

• macOS 10.15.7–15.x (macOS Sequoia ready), with just 60.0 MB of space required. For older systems, use Disk Drill 1/2.x/3.x/4.x (compatible with OS X 10.5+).
• Supports recovery from internal and external storage devices, including iOS, iPadOS, Android, and sources with ReFS 3.14 file systems.
• Fully optimized for both Intel-based Macs and the latest Apple silicon, including M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips.
• Premier solution for recovering deleted data from external drives and system disks, even on Macs with Apple T2, M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips.
• Improved RAM allocation and more stable SSH connections for seamless operation.

Disk Drill review (TheSweetBits take)

Disk Drill claims reliable data recovery rates thanks to these features. At first look, this data recovery tool is a cut above the typical finds in the market. But we need to see how this performs in real life. So, we have been testing the latest version of Disk Drill for Mac for over a week.

During this time, we installed Disk Drill 5 on an M2 MacBook Air and tested the multiple options for recovery and disk management. In particular, we attempted to recover data from various devices like USB drives and external SSDs.

Based on this experience, we have added our insights into the following aspects.

Setup & getting started

Installing, setting up, and getting started with Disk Drill 5 is pretty effortless. Of course, you need to provide the app with permissions like Full Disk Access and Accessibility to ensure seamless functionalities. Once this part is done, you are good to go.

We noticed that Disk Drill 5 has minimal impact on the RAM/CPU power of the Mac. So, even when the data recovery utility is running in the background, you can multitask efficiently.

When you open Disk Drill 5 for the first time, you can see a list of connected devices. If you haven’t connected any external device, you will still see your Mac’s hard drive. You can also see a detailed sidebar on the left, which offers easy access to connected devices and features.

You will find this sidebar handy while handling multiple device types, such as smartphones, tablets, and USB storage drives. Because Disk Drill 5 lets you recover data from Time Machine backups and some other rare sources, those options are also present in the quick-access sidebar.

Overall, you don’t need any prior experience to get started with Disk Drill 5. Instead of worrying about tech-savvy terms or concepts, you can use the intuitive UI design to navigate between the options. In a minute or two, you can start the data recovery process.

The data recovery experience

You already know that Disk Drill 5 is primarily a data recovery tool. Therefore, the package contains multiple features that help you recover the most data from your Mac, removable drive, iPhone, or digital camera. To understand how effective the process is, we used Disk Drill 5 to recover data from a wider variety of devices that use different file systems.

Compatibility

The compatibility of Disk Drill 5 with devices and file systems is pretty impressive. For one, you can recover data from sources other than your Mac. It could be your smartphone, tablet, digital camera, or USB drive. It also lets you import Time Machine backups to recover data from them.

The sidebar helps you categorize all these options, too.

When it comes to file systems, Disk Drill 5 works with almost every option you can come across. The list has APFS, NTFS, ExFAT, HFS, HFS+, FAT, and EXT3/EXT4. So, even if you have a corrupted NTFS drive from a PC, you can use Disk Drill 5 to recover data from it on your Mac.

Performance

By the word performance, we refer to how well the data recovery process works. To begin the process, you need to select the device from available options and start the Scan. Disk Drill 5 provides ample information about the drive before you begin. Once you hit the Search for Lost Data button, the scan will begin.

An area where I found Disk Drill truly impressive is how it recognized a hard drive I believed to be corrupted. I had dropped this HDD and it was not getting detected on my PC. When I connected the same to my Mac, the Finder displayed the message ‘Drive not available’, but Disk Drill 5 recognized the drive despite it being an NTFS drive. I really loved how effective the scans were. However, it is something else that data recovery from that corrupted drive took a few hours. After about 80 minutes, I had 996K files recovered.

The app was able to scan for recoverable data on all the devices we tested. It conveniently shows multiple sections: Existing and Reconstructed. So, you get to know what is already in the drive and what Disk Drill 5 has recovered.

The data recovery success rate estimates from Disk Drill 5 were also accurate. For every file that appears, you can see the chance of recovery: High, Average, or Low. Files with a lower chance of recovery were not available for Preview. It offers a preview for other files. This feature helped me save time because I did not have to attempt to recover files that would not have worked anyway.

We loved how well-arranged the recovery process is. It offers options to recover data that were deleted by users or other applications.

Recovery Success Rates

Full disclosure: Ultimately, recovery success rates depend on many factors, including the status of the drive. You face a low recovery rate while attempting to recover data from corrupted drives or lost partitions.

So, what we share below is based on the drives/devices we tested.

In our testing, Disk Drill 5 showed impressive data recovery success rates. It was able to recover data from a removable drive as well as the Mac’s internal drive. In both cases, Disk Drill successfully provided an overview of recoverable files, which was around 90%.

However, as I said, the success rates and required time for corrupted drives were quite different. In the case of most corrupted/damaged drives, I had to wait more than a few hours for the scan to finish. Even so, Disk Drill 5 was able to recover only a fraction of the data.

However, only 70% of files were given a High chance of data recovery. The others had a Low rating, meaning that we were not able to recover those files. On the bright side, Disk Drill 5 was successful in recovering files that we had removed from the Trash, which itself makes it worthwhile.

We had a better chance of recovering data such as contacts and calendars. General data recovery tools for Mac often fail to deal with platform-specific files. However, Disk Drill 5 dealt with these files pretty well. But some advanced algorithms are available only with its premium version.

Overall, Disk Drill 5 does an incredible job of recovering data from various devices. But it offers more.

Additional utilities

Additional utilities built into Disk Drill 5 make it powerful enough to replace multiple apps. Here, you have an overview of what you get from the package.

• S.M.A.R.T. Monitoring lets you keep track of what happens on a storage device, including power cycle count, HDA temperature, SSD Life, etc. Disk Drill presents all this data in an easy-to-understand design as well.
• The Data Protection module offers you guaranteed data recovery even after deleting the files from a system. You can also go for Recovery Vault, which will retain the metadata of deleted files, thus offering better recovery rates.
• You also get a macOS Installer module, which lets you create a bootable drive that installs macOS on a system. The process is easy and wants you to locate the package, choose the destination, and wait for a few minutes.
• Byte-to-Byte Backup is another impressive function of Disk Drill 5. This feature makes use of patented algorithms to create an accurate clone of your drive/device. However, the options may differ based on whether your Mac has a T2 Security Chip.
• Erase Free Space is an interesting addition to the collection of utilities. It lets you delete free space from a drive so that others cannot recover deleted information. It works better than shredding since you cannot shred files that you’ve already deleted.
• Disk Drill 5 offers a super-useful Duplicate Finder utility as well. It works as great as the many other duplicate finders we have come across. You can choose between multiple options and use the sidebar to navigate through the options.

Overall, Disk Drill 5 can easily replace 5-6 separate apps you may need on your Mac. In particular, the cloning and duplicate finder utilities were impressive.

Pricing

You can download Disk Drill 5 for Mac for free, but it contains a limited set of features. For instance, the free version supports only entire-drive recovery, not single-file/folder recovery. Yet, you have full access to added features like duplicate finder, disk space eraser, and macOS installer.

If you need access to the full features, you need to get Disk Drill Pro, which costs $89. You can ensure lifetime upgrades by paying an additional $19. Disk Drill 5 also offers additional discounts if you are a student or if you are upgrading from a previous version. This single license allows up to 3 simultaneous activations.

You can also get Disk Drill through a Setapp subscription.

We want you to remember that you get at least six different utilities in this package. So, no matter how you look at it, Disk Drill 5 is a worthy investment for most.

FAQs

Is Disk Drill safe to use?

Disk Drill is generally considered safe to use. It’s developed by a reputable company, CleverFiles, and doesn’t contain any known malware. However, as with any software that accesses your hard drive, it’s always a good idea to download it from the official CleverFiles website or a trusted source like TheSweetBits to avoid potentially harmful modified versions.

How does Disk Drill work?

Disk Drill works by scanning your hard drive (or other storage devices) for lost or deleted files. It uses various scanning methods, including Quick Scan and Deep Scan, to locate recoverable data based on file signatures and remaining file system information. The success of data recovery can be affected by the condition of the disk.

Is Disk Drill really free?

Disk Drill offers a free version that allows you to recover up to 500MB of data. This is great for small file recoveries or for testing the software’s capabilities before committing to a paid license. For larger data recovery needs, you’ll need to upgrade to the Pro version.

How does Disk Drill compare to other data recovery tools?

Disk Drill offers a user-friendly interface, robust scanning capabilities, and extra features like data protection and disk health monitoring. For a detailed side-by-side comparison of Disk Drill with a popular alternative like EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, check out our in-depth analysis here.

<p>The post Disk Drill: Mac Data Recovery That Actually Works first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

CleanMyMac Business uses the same trusted technology that powers the consumer version, but with features tailored for SMBs and managed service providers (MSPs). It’s the new enterprise-grade tool to keep your Macs running smoothly, securely, and optimized for peak performance—without the need for a dedicated IT team.

Key Features

• Easy to use—no specialized IT knowledge required.
• Affordable with pricing based on the number of Macs, perfect for SMBs.
• Centralized dashboard for managing all your Macs from one place.
• Automates system cleanups and optimizes performance, without manual intervention.
• Built-in malware protection and device health monitoring.
• Real-time alerts to prevent downtime and ensure security.
• No heavy configuration—it integrates seamlessly with existing MDM platforms (if needed) or works as a standalone tool.

Key Benefits

• Tailored for teams of six or more without the overhead of enterprise-grade solutions.
• Designed to be user-friendly, accessibility for non-IT professionals.
• Provides essential features at a fraction of the cost of traditional MDM solutions, making it an affordable option for growing businesses.
• Enhanced productivity by automating routine tasks and providing real-time insights into device health, teams can focus on their core responsibilities instead of IT maintenance.
• A 14-day free trial allows organizations to evaluate the software’s fit within their workflow without any upfront commitment.

From MacPaw’s CEO

“We’ve seen firsthand how CleanMyMac significantly improves the performance and productivity of individual Macs. With CleanMyMac Business, we’re scaling that impact to entire organizations.”

“Beyond performance, this solution brings essential benefits like threat protection and streamlined software updates, helping companies strengthen their security posture and maintain compliance effortlessly. Our mission is to empower businesses to operate more efficiently and securely, ensuring their teams can focus on what truly matters.”

How It Works

1. Install the Tool: Download and install CleanMyMac Business on all the Macs in your organization.
2. Set Up Centralized Management: Admins can set up a central dashboard to manage and monitor all devices in the company.
3. Automate Maintenance Tasks: Schedule regular scans and cleanups to ensure every Mac stays optimized.
4. Receive Alerts: Stay on top of any performance issues with real-time notifications, ensuring quick fixes and minimal downtime.
5. Monitor Progress: View detailed reports and insights into the performance of your devices and how CleanMyMac Business is improving your system’s health.

How Does CMM Business Compare to MDM Solutions

Traditional MDM platforms are powerful, offering extensive control over device settings, app deployment, and security policies. However, they are typically designed for larger organizations with dedicated IT teams.

CleanMyMac Business (CMM Business), on the other hand, is designed specifically for SMBs that need essential device management features without the complexity of traditional MDM systems. It covers core capabilities like device monitoring, security settings, and app management, making it a simple and cost-effective solution for businesses that don’t need remote management or large-scale app deployment.

For larger organizations, CleanMyMac Business can seamlessly complement existing MDM platforms by adding malware protection, disk cleanup, and performance optimization. It helps Mac admins to enhance security and boost productivity without the need for a full-fledged enterprise solution.

Pavlo Bogachevskyi, Product Marketing Manager at MacPaw, says:

“Many traditional MDM tools run silently on devices, leaving users unaware of what actions admins could be taking on their devices.”

“CMM Business takes a different approach– it operates quietly in the background, but users can see any tasks or actions that administrators initiate. This fosters trust while enabling admins to communicate directly with users about how to properly care for their devices.”

Our suggestion: Choose an MDM solution if you require comprehensive device management capabilities for a large organization. Opt for CleanMyMac Business if you want a streamlined, affordable alternative to traditional MDMs.

Pricing & Availability

CleanMyMac Business is available now with flexible subscription options for businesses of all sizes.

• Free Trial: Test out CleanMyMac Business with a 2-week free trial—no credit card required. Onboard up to 30 Macs and experience the benefits firsthand.
• Subscription Plans: Pricing is based on the number of Macs in your fleet, from $24 per device/year (with volume discounts available). MacPaw offers different tiers to cater to both small teams and larger organizations.

Visit MacPaw’s website to learn more about CleanMyMac Business and start your free trial today.

<p>The post CleanMyMac Business: Simplified Mac Maintenance for SMBs first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

iStat Menus 7 aims to solve this problem by bringing system monitoring modules into your menu bar.

What is iStat Menus 7?

iStat Menus 7 is essentially a system monitoring tool for macOS. However, instead of displaying monitoring data in a complex window, iStat Menus makes it available in your menu bar. Depending on what you want to monitor on your Mac, you can set up the corresponding menu bar widget.

You should keep in mind that iStat Menus does more than show sensor data. The latest version, iStat Menus 7, also brings a full reboot, starting from design. More importantly, this system monitor seems to focus the most on customization.

“Our goal is still to show all the important stats in a well-made app. Even if a lot of the details have changed, that vision has remained constant.”

Marc Edwards, Founder and Designer of iStat Menus. Discover more in our interview.

Key Features

• iStat Menus 7 lets you access accurate system monitoring statistics right from the menu bar.
• Widgets for Weather, CPU & GPU, Memory, Disk Activity, Network, Sensor, and Battery and Power.
• Each of the menu bar entries is heavily customizable, including color, style, and behavior.
• iStat Menus 7 brings a revamped set of UI designs and combinations.
• Minimal software footprint, making it ideal for older, low-configuration Macs.

Key Specs

• macOS 11+ required.
• Support frequency monitoring on Apple Silicon Macs.
• Support for M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max MacBook Pros and iMacs.
• Support for early 2023 Mac Studio, MacBook Pro, Mac Pro, Mac minis and 15-inch MacBook Air.
• 14-day free trial.
• Fully localized for over 30 languages.

iStat Menu Review (TheSweetBits Take)

Understanding their impact on system resources is an integral part of reviewing apps. So, ever since I started testing macOS apps, I have been using Mac system monitoring utilities.

However, most of the tools I have used do not offer the convenience and integration I need. So, when I saw iStat Menus a couple of years back, I tried it. Since then, it has been my go-to choice to monitor and manage macOS system performance continuously.

I have been testing the latest version, iStat Menus 7, for a few months. Here’s what I have found.

Installation and Setup

You can download iStat Menus from three places: the official website, Mac App Store, and Setapp. No matter which method, the installation package is small, and the process does not take more than a few seconds.

When you first open iStat Menus 7, it might take a few seconds to load the components. But, depending on your menu bar preferences, you may see one or two active modules out there. Nothing to worry, though. It is all customizable.

I also noticed that iStat Menus doesn’t require many permissions. However, you may have to install a helper to enable data from sensors/components.

Interface and Experience

There are two components to the IStat Menus 7 User Interface design: menu bar items and the iStat Menus window.

As soon as you start the program, the enabled menu bar items will appear on the menu bar. You’d have an option to add, remove, or modify these entries. Each menu bar entry will expand into a pane, where you can find the required system monitoring data. You can easily rearrange the menu bar entries based on what you want to see where.

Then, we have the iStat Menus window. This is where all the magic happens, and you get maximum control over what appears where. The UI is pretty intuitive, and you can move between multiple modules, including Global, Rules, Weather, Processor, Disks, Network, Sensors, Power, and Combined.

The Global tab lets you customize the system accent color for iStat Menus 7. You can choose between many designs and also pick dark/light mode. More importantly, this tab lets you control how frequently the iStat Menus engine will update system data and choose between Normal and Compact menu bar spacing.

In the same way, you can customize the many system monitoring modules.

System Monitoring Modules

Let’s take a look at the core system monitoring modules of iStat Menus 7 and what they can do.

• CPU & GPU: You’ll find accurate sensor data, such as the clock speed, temperature, etc. There are dedicated sections to track processes, GPU performance, load, and uptime. All these metrics will help you identify heavy-duty apps and background processes on your Mac.
  
• Memory: Given the importance of RAM when it comes to multitasking, everyone will benefit from the Memory module of iStat Menus 7. You can use this menu bar entry to monitor the pressure, memory usage, processes, and SWAP usage.
• Disk: As the name suggests, you can use this module to get monitoring data from the disks on your Mac. You get to see the storage capacity, read/Write speed statistics, and see a list of processes using disk resources.
• Network: This module provides you with all the necessary network-related metrics. These include real-time download/upload speeds, Wi-Fi name, public IP addresses, Ping, and processes that take up network resources the most.
  
• Sensors: This module can provide real-time numbers from the many sensors on your Mac. You get to know the CPU temperature, fan speed, power input, voltage, and frequency.
• Power: In this module, you can find details such as the battery percentage, battery health, current energy mode, keyboard brightness, and apps using up significant energy.

In addition to these, iStat Menus 7 also brings a few useful menu bar entries.

• Weather: This one lets you find compact/detailed information about the weather in an area.
• Time: You can use this module to replace the conventional clock. It comes with a fully customizable calendar interface as well.

These modules are powerful enough to replace a few menu bar apps you may already have.

Rules & Controls: Beyond Monitoring

iStat Menus 7 does more than let you monitor the vital system statistics of your Mac. Instead, you get a few controls that can keep your Mac running at its finest.

First, we have Rules and Notifications. Rules are automation instances that track your Mac’s performance. It is easy to create and manage these rules, thanks to the dedicated tab. Here, you can either customize the existing ones.

For example, you can ask iStat Menus to notify you when the CPU usage is high or the sensor temperature has been through the roof for some time. I have also set up a few banners to track changes to the network. It is nice to customize the type of notification—Banner or Alert—based on the data.

iStat Menus 7 also brings adaptive fan controls to your Mac. You can use Rules to customize the fan speeds at specific instances. For instance, you can put the fans to full speed when the CPU temperature is overboard. The latest version also lets you set up custom fan curves to efficiently manage the system temperature.

These automation options, combined with rich notifications, make it easy to keep track of your Mac without opening the menu bar entries often.

The Customization Factor

iStat Menus 7 is not the first system monitor to provide in-depth data in easy-to-understand formats. Nor is it the only app with menu bar entries. So, what makes this system monitoring suite worth all the praise? It’s customization.

You get to customize almost every aspect of iStat Menus, starting with what appears on the menu bar. On the other hand, if you have less menu bar real estate, you can use the Combined module, which packs crucial stats from different modules. But this is only the tip of the iceberg.

You will understand the extent of customization potential when it comes to the different modules. As I said before, you can change the color scheme of the module and rearrange what appears where. Moreover, iStat Menus lets you add multiple menu bar icons (entries) from a module.

For instance, you can use one entry from CPU & GPU to show the CPU resource consumption percentage. At the same time, you can have separate entries to show the display FPS or system load average. You can also choose different ways—graphs or bars—to show the same metric.

Depending on the module, you may get advanced customization options too. For instance, the Time module lets you choose from calendar viewing options.

Accuracy and Performance Impact

The latest version, iStat Menus 7, brings many customizations exclusive to Apple Silicon Macs. If you got one of these, you would love the support for frequency monitoring and data from additional sensors. Its options for fan control have also become better by a long shot.

Accuracy and Speed of Updates

iStat Menus 7 might very well be the most accurate system monitor I have come across. I noticed the overall difference, but something more for specific modules like Network Activity. Since we get to control the update frequency, the menu bar entries reflect changes quicker than many alternatives I’ve tried.

In this particular case, I used to have an app called Bandwidth+ to show network statistics on the menu bar. Though I was pleased with what it did, the Network module of iStat Menus showed me the drastic change in speed.

Impact on System

This system monitoring app surprises me in terms of performance impact as well. Considering the countless customization options it provides, iStat Menus can reasonably consume much more system resources. But, interestingly enough, it doesn’t.

Even when it is set to update details as frequently as possible, iStat Menus 7 retains its minimal footprint. It means you only have to worry about the space on your menu bar.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• You get comprehensive system monitoring modules
• Entirely customizable, from the menu bar to each section
• Well-integrated with macOS and its workflows
• Minimal impact on system resources/performance
• Multiple purchase options (one-time and subscription)
• Excellent support and maintenance

Cons

• It may cause menu bar clutter based on usage
• Fewer options to take action/fix system issues

Pricing and Availability

You can get iStat Menus from the official website for $11.99 (Personal license) or $14.99 for the Family pack. Both these rates are pretty reasonable compared to other Mac system monitors. You can also get iStat Menu 7 and further upgrades through a Setapp subscription, which costs around $10 a month but also offers access to 250+ other apps.

A note on Mac App Store version limitations

The Mac App Store version of iStat Menus, while convenient, has some limitations:

• Lacks weather information
• Cannot control fan speeds
• Cannot show CPU frequency
• Requires the iStat Menus Helper for certain statistics

For the full feature set and customization options, getting iStat Menus directly from the official website or through a Setapp subscription is recommended. It can replace multiple individual apps, offering significant value for the price.

Safety and Security

Is iStat Menus safe to use?
Yes, iStat Menus is considered safe to use. It is developed by Bjango, a reputable company known for creating reliable software for macOS. The application does not require excessive permissions and is designed to run efficiently without compromising system security.

Does iStat Menus collect any personal data or send information to third parties?
No, iStat Menus does not collect any personal data or send information to third parties. All monitoring data is kept locally on your Mac, and the app operates without requiring an internet connection. Privacy is a key focus for the development of iStat Menus.

More FAQs

How does iStat Menus monitor CPU and GPU performance?
iStat Menus provides detailed real-time monitoring of both CPU and GPU performance. It tracks core usage, frequency, temperature, and other key metrics. For Apple Silicon Macs, the app includes advanced frequency monitoring, offering you insights into CPU performance under different load conditions, such as during idle or heavy tasks.

How customizable is iStat Menus?
iStat Menus is highly customizable. You can rearrange menu bar items, combine multiple metrics into single entries, and choose different display styles (graphs or bars). Additionally, you can set rules for notifications and adapt fan speeds based on CPU temperature.

Is iStat Menus a free or paid app? Can I use it on multiple Macs?
iStat Menus is a paid app, but it offers a 14-day free trial to let you explore its features before purchasing. Once the trial expires, you’ll need to purchase either a Standard License or a Family Pack License to continue using the app. The Standard license allows installation on up to 3 computers primarily used by the purchaser, or 1 computer if the computer has no primary user. Family license allows installation on up to 5 computers within a single residential household.

Final Notes

iStat Menus 7 doesn’t have a steep learning curve, even as it allows room for maximum customization.

And please note: on M3, M3 Pro, M3 Max, M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max Macs, fan control may not work correctly in situations where macOS has turned the fans off. The developer is currently investigating this issue.

<p>The post iStat Menus 7: A Deep Dive into Mac System Monitoring first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

Features highlights

• Onyx provides various maintenance tasks, including disk verification, system cleaning, and cache management.
• You can access hidden macOS settings and customize system behavior for a more personalized experience.
• You can also schedule regular maintenance tasks, making it easy to keep your system running smoothly with minimal effort.
• Onyx is completely free, and the developer regularly updates it to ensure compatibility with the latest macOS versions, including macOS Sequoia.
• While Onyx is great for maintenance, it doesn’t include a backup option, and some advanced features may be confusing for new users.

Onyx for Mac review

We’ve taken Onyx for a spin to see what it can really do, and here’s what OnyX has to offer:

Installation

Installing OnyX is straightforward: download the specific version compatible with your macOS, provide it with disk access, and you’re ready to go. The app even guides you through setting up Full Disk Access so you can start optimizing right away.

Interface & Customization

OnyX’s interface is minimalistic—its primary focus is on functionality. The toolbar gives you quick access to various features, and you can customize it by selecting View > Customize Toolbar. Unlike apps that clutter the UI with excess features, OnyX is refreshingly direct.

Our Take: It may not look modern, but OnyX’s no-frills approach prioritizes usability, making it easier to dive into essential maintenance tasks.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Under the Maintenance tab, you’ll find options for cleaning and verifying system integrity. Here’s what you can do:

• Verify Filesystem Structure: Diagnose disk issues and even delete APFS snapshots to speed up the process.
• System Cleanup: Clear caches, run maintenance scripts, delete unnecessary files, and free up space.
• Application Cleanup: Clean app caches, saved states, and archived files.

Our Take: These tasks can take time, especially without a progress indicator, but OnyX does a thorough job at maintaining your Mac’s health.

Advanced Utilities

OnyX’s Utilities tab offers deeper insights into your Mac:

• Filesystem Check: Quickly verify file structure without needing to restart.
• APFS Snapshots: Create or delete snapshots to manage system backups and data states.
• Process Accounting: Track commands and system activity, useful for auditing and monitoring.
• macOS Shortcuts: OnyX also provides shortcuts to built-in tools like Wireless Diagnostics, Directory Utility, and Display Calibration.

Our Take: Casual users might not need these tools, but for developers or IT professionals, OnyX offers a wealth of options that make Terminal commands more accessible.

File Management for Advanced Users

The Files tab lets advanced users manipulate files and directories that are often hidden. You can:

• Change File Visibility: Access hard-to-reach files or hide specific directories.
• Checksum Calculations: Compare files or locate packages by checksums.
• Permanent Deletion: Safely and permanently erase files beyond recovery.

Our Take: These powerful tools are ideal for developers or tech-savvy users who need quick access to file management without Terminal commands.

Security

OnyX includes a Security tab to manage and monitor basic security features:

• Check Security Settings: See the status of System Integrity Protection, Gatekeeper, and other macOS protections.
• Enable/Disable Features: Quickly toggle Gatekeeper or security response settings with ease.

Our Take: While limited, these options offer developers or advanced users a quicker alternative to command-line security adjustments.

File & System Search

The Find tab lets you use graphical alternatives to Terminal commands, ideal for users familiar with Terminal but wanting a simpler experience:

• Locate Database: Once set up, use the locate command to search your Mac for specific files.
• Spotlight Alternative: Use mdfind to refine searches based on Spotlight-like parameters.
• Quick File Search: For finding specific files in large directories, OnyX’s tools make the process more efficient.

Our Take: If Spotlight isn’t enough, OnyX’s search options can help find elusive files without diving into the Terminal.

Personalization with Parameters

The Parameters tab lets users customize macOS behaviors, including:

• Screenshot Format and Location: Save screenshots in different formats or customize their save location.
• Finder, Dock, and Safari Tweaks: Show hidden files, alter animations, and adjust application settings with ease.

Our Take: This section is particularly appealing for users who want to personalize macOS settings that Apple keeps locked down by default.

System Info and Monitoring

In the Info tab, OnyX provides detailed system statistics beyond what macOS’s built-in System Information shows:

• Memory & Volume Use: Check memory, swap usage, and more.
• Purge Swap File: Free up space by purging the swap file if needed.

Our Take: Most users may not need this, but it’s useful for those who like more granular control over their system’s memory and volume usage.

What users say?

“I’ve been using Onyx for many years, even before I started my privacy journey. I trust the developers of Onyx and have donated to them a few times. You’ve done the research, so you can decide for yourself if you trust them or you could first also check for some alternatives that might be even open-source for example.” – Yahhas

“I set all maintenance options to on except for browser history, saved forms and cookies. That’s all you need for a cleanup. It’s essentially a GUI for existing macOS functions that would otherwise require Terminal to use.” – Dry

Is Onyx safe?

Yes, Onyx is a safe tool for Mac. The app has been developed by Titanium Software, a well-respected name in the Mac utility space. It’s been around for many years, and its developer regularly updates the tool to stay compatible with the latest macOS versions. Onyx works by providing users with the ability to clean up junk files and tweak system settings, all of which can be done safely when used correctly. However, as with any tool that alters system settings, it’s important to read the instructions and use caution, especially when making more advanced changes.

Things to keep in mind:

While Onyx is generally safe to use, it’s always a good practice to back up your data before making any major system changes. For beginners, we recommend starting with the basic cleaning and optimization options and exploring the advanced features cautiously.

How OnyX compares to alternatives

OnyX faces stiff competition from other Mac cleaning and maintenance utilities like CleanMyMac and DaisyDisk. While these tools also offer powerful cleaning and optimization features, they come with a price tag. OnyX stands out because it provides the same functionality as paid alternatives—without any cost. However, it does lack the advanced real-time monitoring features found in CleanMyMac.

Is Onyx for Mac any good?

Despite being a free tool, Onyx offers a surprising array of features for optimizing and maintaining your Mac. We found it particularly useful for cleaning up clutter, managing storage space, and fine-tuning specific system settings.

Pros

• Completely Free: No subscriptions or hidden fees.
• Comprehensive Tools: Full suite of system maintenance and optimization tools.
• In-depth Customization: Change macOS settings usually restricted by Apple.
• Regular Updates: Frequent updates keep the program in sync with macOS improvements.

Cons

• Challenging for Novices: OnyX is built for users comfortable with system maintenance.
• Potential for Misconfiguration: Mishandling certain settings can lead to stability issues.
• Sparse Support: Limited resources for troubleshooting or beginner support.

Onyx may not be suitable for everyone—especially those who prefer simpler apps for basic maintenance tasks—but for users who enjoy customizing their Macs or need a tool for regular upkeep, Onyx is definitely worth a try.

Download Onyx: https://www.titanium-software.fr/en/onyx.html

<p>The post Onyx: A Free Tool for Maintaining and Tweaking macOS first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

About TG Pro

TG Pro is a Mac utility that lets you check the internal temperature of your device and control the fans speeds on your Mac. Its automation features also increase the productivity of your Mac by enabling smart cooling.

• Compatible with Intel & Apple Silicon
• Real-time temperature monitoring
• Full fan control + auto boost
• Smart logs and diagnostics
• Menu bar access for quick actions

From the developer

“I believe Mac users have always been interested in performance and making sure their hardware running at optimal speed and temperatures, especially with the introduction of the Apple silicon models, beginning with the M1 and now with the new M4 based models.” Read the story behind TG Pro here.

TG Pro review: our experience

Despite how complex it is, TG Pro employs a simple installation process. We completed the installation in a few minutes. Quite surprisingly, the TG Pro app does not demand many permissions on your Mac. It is also a relief that TG Pro is notarized by Apple.

That is, Apple has verified that TG Pro does not contain any type of malware.

Anyway, once you complete the installation, you can see the fully-fledged interface of TG Pro.

The interface

It’s one thing that TG Pro is an advanced utility. Surprisingly, the developers made sure that the overall interface of the tool doesn’t trouble much, even if you’re a beginner.

The main interface contains everything you need, from the temperature information to fan controls. A quick look at the left end will land you on a series of options. You can shift between sections and explore advanced information.

Overall, even if you have never used fan control tools before, TG Pro will be a piece of cake.

We shall now look at some of its unique features.

Smart diagnostics

Smart Diagnostics is one BIG reason to get TG Pro.

During testing, TG Pro even flagged a rare improper shutdown we hadn’t noticed—turns out, a spike in CPU temperature was to blame. That level of detail gives you real insight into what’s happening under the hood.

To be honest, we’re not the kind of guys who rush into things, and putting our Mac to sleep is no exception. For that matter of fact, TG Pro listing that one rare session explains how well it is optimized to do its job. In our case, a spike in CPU temperature was indeed the culprit behind the unexpected shutdown.

Moreover, the tool is capable of providing a normally functioning fan and sensor diagnostics. Its ability to create new logs for varied administrators is indeed a promising approach to regularizing the tasks. Here is how it might help you.

You cannot always keep an eye on the optimal temperature of your MacBook components. However, with the help of TG Pro, you can automate this process. The app will keep track of essential temperature sensors and tell you if there is a problem.

In this case, we’re notified that the CPU overheating was the reason for the shutdown.

Auto boost

Of all TG Pro’s standout features, Auto Boost might just be our favorite.

As the name suggests, turning on the feature will allow the tool to automatically tune up the speed of your Mac’s fan whenever the temperature reaches a certain level. And yes, you get to define what that “certain level” means—it’s fully customizable.

You can even use Auto Boost to test how different tools behave under load by observing fan responses. Well, we did the same, especially on those who weren’t working great for me before. So, if you have a basic idea about power-intensive tasks on your Mac, you can set up smart schedules for fan control.

One thing we can say is that the Auto Boost algorithm is far better than the automatic fan control decisions by macOS. macOS tends to throttle the performance when there is higher heat. On the other hand, TG Pro will optimize the fan speed to give you better performance without hardware damage.

Both Intel and Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3 & M4 series) Macs support

TG Pro is compatible with devices that operate on macOS 10.13 or higher (including macOS Sequoia), irrespective of its release date. In other words, whether it be the classic Mac from 2008 or the most powerful ones known to date, Apple silicon Mac, M2, M1 Ultra, M1, M1 Pro, and M1 Max, TG Pro should work great.

Your M2 MacBook Air doesn’t have a mechanical fan, so you can’t control fan speeds—but TG Pro still gives you deep insight into internal temperatures. But, having TG Pro by your side can help you understand when the temperatures go overboard.

Single view from macOS menu bar

The menu-bar utility of TG Pro also offers great convenience. A single click lets you quickly switch between System, Max, and Auto Max settings, for times when you need an instant cooling boost.

Apart from giving you a quick shortcut to the different fan speed control options, you also get a full-view display of temperatures at which the different components are operating.

Other uses for TG Pro

We must also mention how TG Pro can double as other utilities.

For instance, if you have a fan-less Mac, you won’t need fan controls. In these instances, you can use TG Pro to keep track of Mac temperature. Compared to system monitoring apps in the category, the calculations from TG Pro are accurate and reliable. It also goes the extra mile to provide temperature sensors from sub-sections.

On our M2 MacBook Air, which does not have a fan, we use TG Pro to keep track of overheating issues. That is, if an app slows down the entire system, we check whether it is shooting up the temperature sensors. It is an effective way to keep your Mac healthy.

As one of our editors put it: “TG Pro saved our Mac from constantly overheating during 4K editing sessions.” And we couldn’t agree more.

Minor Drawbacks

Learning curve

The information that the tool provides can be overwhelming for new users and some options are placed deep below various windows. Overclocking the fan speed without knowing what you’re doing is quite easy, but in most cases, this won’t cause any damage.

When it comes to slowing down the fan speed, there are multiple safeguards in place in the form of warning pop-ups, so there won’t be any critical hardware failure at any point. Unless you ignore these warnings, you will have a smooth journey.

Installation conflicts

Although not frequent, a handful of users have reported installation issues with TG Pro. As claimed by users, an attempt to download and install from the official website landed them an error message.

That said, we didn’t run into this issue during our review. We did notice that the TG app on the App Store is outdated, but you get upgraded to the latest version of TG Pro even if you purchase the older version.

However, we’d urge the developers to avoid these potential conflicts during installation.

TG Pro PROS & CONS

Pros

Real-time temperature monitoring across all Mac sensors
Fan control customization for better thermal management
Works with Intel and Apple Silicon Macs
Helps prevent thermal throttling and overheating
Sleek, Mac-native UI with menu bar integration
Email and notification alerts for overheating
Works great with external displays and clamshell mode

Cons

May be overkill for casual users or light workloads
No companion mobile app for remote monitoring
Fan settings need careful adjustment — not beginner-proof

Verdict: Is TG Pro worth it?

In the end, we love everything that TG Pro offers. The feature-set is impressive and you don’t need to be a geek to understand how the tool works.

In particular, we love the option to choose between intelligent automation and manual control over the fan speeds. It is handy for those who are learning the ways of optimizing their Mac.

What else? Considering the same feature set, the 50% off sale seems reasonable as well.

TG Pro Pricing

TG Pro offers a one-time purchase license, not a subscription (a rare win these days!):

• Standard License: $10
• Family Pack (5 Macs): $15
• Business Pack (10 Macs): $25
• Includes free updates for all minor versions
• Compatible with macOS Monterey and later, including Apple Silicon Macs

You can try TG Pro with a free trial to explore its full features before committing.

TG Pro FAQs

Is TG Pro safe?

The temperature monitoring tool TG Pro is designed with all the security measures in mind. Being notarized by Apple itself, TG Pro is something you can trust. TG Pro uses the Hardened Runtime and offers a specific and unassailable fan control service.

Who is TG Pro best for?

Ideal for power users, developers, content creators, or anyone pushing their Mac to its limits—especially in hot environments.

Is TG Pro compatible with old Macs?

TG Pro is compatible with almost any variant of Mac. No matter if you own the brand-new M1 Pro 16-inch MacBook, or you’ve been operating on the 24-inch iMac, you can buy and install TG Pro with no issues whatsoever. But make sure your device runs macOS 10.13 or higher.

How does a fan control app improve MacBook performance?

The internal processor of the Mac, similar to any other computer, will work at peak performance when the temperature is low. While Apple has designed the MacBook to keep itself cool when under constant workload, external temperature can also affect the performance. TG Pro is recommended for users who reside in tropical or arid regions where the external temperature is higher.

TG Pro vs Macs Fan Control?

After taking a closer look at the biggest competitor to TG Pro in the fan speed control apps space for Mac, here’s what we found out about Macs Fan Control:

Similar to TG Pro, Macs Fan Control also offers a menu bar view with advanced fan speed controls, but the user interface takes a while to get used to.

Comparing the two price-wise, the TG Pro costs less ($10) compared to the Macs Fan Control ($14.95).

While Macs Fan Control is a solid free alternative, TG Pro’s rich diagnostics, Apple Silicon support, and auto-boost features make it well worth the upgrade for serious users.

Is TG Pro free?

TG Pro does not have a free version but does offer a free trial. The app is usually available for $20, but you can get this tool for 50% off, only $10, thanks to the sale that has been running for days now.

<p>The post TG Pro: The Mac Cooling Tool You Need (Review) first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

DaisyDisk’s intuitive interface presents a visual representation of your disk usage in the form of an interactive map. This colorful map makes it easy to see where your storage space is being used and pinpoint the biggest space wasters.

Key features

• Visual Disk Mapping: DaisyDisk’s unique sunburst diagram provides a vivid and intuitive layout of your storage, breaking down each folder and file into color-coded segments. This visual representation makes it easy to understand which files and folders are taking up the most space, down to the tiniest byte.
• Blazing Fast Scans: DaisyDisk is optimized for speed, scanning your drives significantly faster than many other disk management tools. Thanks to its streamlined approach, you can visualize your storage structure in moments, even on high-capacity drives.
• Quickly Free Up Space: The drag-and-drop feature for deleting files means you can clean up your storage in no time. Simply select unwanted files and drag them to the bottom bar for instant removal, saving you from hunting through Finder for each one.
• Identify Large Files: Quickly pinpoint the largest files and folders consuming storage space on your Mac.
• Drill Down for Details: Zoom in on specific folders to identify hidden files and unnecessary data.
• Enhanced Google Drive Integration: DaisyDisk regained its verified status for Google Drive, providing users with seamless access to their cloud storage within the app. This feature is particularly helpful for anyone juggling both local and cloud storage and looking to manage both spaces efficiently.
• Apple Silicon Support: DaisyDisk has been optimized for Apple Silicon, ensuring smooth performance on M1/M2 Macs and M3-ready, and delivering a seamless experience for all macOS users, whether on Intel or Apple Silicon hardware.

DaisyDisk: A hands-on review

While DaisyDisk doesn’t have any significant interface-wise updates, the latest update is still important because it allows a seamless way of not only controlling your storage on your Mac but also cleaning it up by transferring it to the cloud.

Also, we believe that DaisyDisk is one of the easiest apps you can use on a Mac to control your storage, especially thanks to the visualization which is a huge bonus for an app of this type. Down below, you can find out how you can get started, how to use DaisyDisk to take full advantage, but also what to expect from some of its best features, so keep on reading!

Getting started (Standalone version vs. AppStore version)

To get started, you can either visit the AppStore to find the DaisyDisk or you can visit their official page to download the latest standalone version yourself.

What’s great about downloading the DaisyDisk version from their official websites is that you can even find legacy versions that are ideal for older Macs (in case you are not using the latest macOS).

But what you need to know is that there’s a huge difference between the AppStore version and the version from the official DaisyDisk website. We noticed this during our test and here’s what’s the key difference you should keep in mind.

The stand-alone version (the one you download from the official website) seems to be a lot more powerful than the version you can download from the AppStore. The reason for this is the AppStore’s sandbox which keeps the apps from their full potential for a certain period of time by limiting them in the sandbox for a certain period of time.

Apple is doing this most likely to ensure that the users don’t come across bugs and glitches in the latest versions before the developers catch on to these issues and fix them.

So here’s what a standalone official version can do better than the AppStore version:

• Deleting ‘stuck’ files
• Detecting and showing hidden space
• Purging purgeable space (and detecting the space)
• Scan files as an administrator
• Built-in official updater
• Registration through license key

Using DaisyDisk app

We tested both versions, and no matter which version you decide to download, you’ll still get a very decent experience and performance out of each one. However, it’s highly recommended to download the standalone version directly from DaisyDisk’s website for the improved features that have yet to come in the AppStore version.

Managing disks

Upon opening the DaisyDisk, we were greeted with a very simple interface that listed all of our storage drives.

At the time of testing, we only had one storage drive (SSD) which is internal storage on our MacBook, so it’s good to see that you can get down to the core of your files and even check your system files as well.

However, you can connect an external disk or connect a cloud storage and it’ll be displayed in one list.

From there, we were able to scan our drive which only took a minute or so for a 256GB SSD drive.

From there, storage visualization is displayed according to your data and storage so you can manage your storage efficiently.

Managing storage space

Managing storage space was one of our favorite parts of testing the DaisyDisk. It’s because this part is simplified so that anyone without any prior experience with such a tool can use it and fully understand their storage space.

You don’t only get the storage amount and see how much is taken by your files with a list of types of files that take the most of your space, yet you also get a colorful diagram that displays all these categories.

Therefore, at a glance, you can know exactly what color takes the most space and when you click on it, you get a chance to see the name of the specific app, folder, or part of your storage that is represented by a diagram and a color.

What we like the most is that you can see specific files and folders, and the list is always from biggest to smallest, and at the end, there’s always a “smaller objects” section which you can get into if you’d like to clear smaller files.

If not, you can focus on the largest files and folders to clean the most space in one go. We also find the drag & drop feature super useful since it keeps everything visual and you quickly get to manage your data visually.

Connecting cloud storage services

Besides storage drives that are automatically displayed in the simple and minimalistic interface, in the latest DaisyDisk update, you get to connect your cloud storage drives such as OneDrive, DropBox, Google Drive, and a couple of others.

It’s worth mentioning that we found the feature to scan a specific folder very useful for people who don’t want to scan the whole drive yet only want to use DaisyDisk’s capabilities for a very specific part of their drive.

Next to the Scan Folder button is the smaller arrow which opens the list of “Connect” dropdown menu where you can choose between connecting Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, and Box accounts.

The whole process is well integrated with the services to accommodate DaisyDisk users and once you set up your account, it’ll always be listed in the DaisyDisk starting menu.

User interface and ease of use

Not only is DaisyDisk efficient but it’s also made in a way that it accommodates users of any experience level.

Its easy approach and the super minimalistic interface is user friendly. We were positively surprised by how easy and quick DaisyDisk is to use and you can get started in only minutes without having to learn how the tool works at all.

Instead, you only follow the processes which are simplified and we have felt that features are well designed into the interface. We didn’t feel overwhelmed and yet all the features were available to us at a touch of a button.

What’s most significant about DaisyDisk’s interface is the colorful (candy-colored) wheel which represents all your data. It is engaging, visually appealing, and makes data easy to understand.

At a quick glance, you get to choose how much data you have and what takes up most of your storage. Therefore, you quickly get to delete any data of your choice by dragging and dropping the “slice of pie” to the deleted folder.

DaisyDisk also integrates some of Mac’s system features right into the tool so you can quickly get more info on your storage disk, show files in Finder, and more.

DaisyDisk on other devices

During our tests on Mac, we really wondered if users on other operating systems such as Windows can benefit from this simple yet efficient tool.

Unfortunately, we came to the conclusion that only macOS users are lucky since DaisyDisk is not available on Windows and other operating systems.

Instead, you’ll have to find third-party tools that would most likely work in a similar way to DaisyDisk. Some of the ones we came across during our test include WinDirStart which is worth checking out.

How about DaisyDisk pricing

DaisyDisk comes with a free trial that lasts for 30 days, but the full license which gives you full access to its features is pretty affordable.

It offers a single-purchase license at $9.99 without requiring subscription feescosts about $9.99. However, if you are running a Mac with an older macOS version, you can still purchase the license and use it on any of the DaisyDisk legacy versions.

These legacy versions are provided by DaisyDisk to support older Macs, and even though they’re no longer receiving updates, they’re super useful and can still be used to efficiently manage your storage.

Is DaisyDisk safe

DaisyDisk is very safe and it has been approved by Apple so you can find it on the AppStore. Also, if you consider the developers’ past, you’ll conclude that they’ve been around for a very decent time and even the app itself has been in use for slightly over a decade.

And considering that DaisyDisk only helps you get a clear view of your storage and data, it won’t be able to delete any important files, and you’ll always be asked to confirm at least two, or even three times in some situations before your files are deleted.

On top of that, there’s a “basket” where you can drag and drop all files you’d delete and then you get to review these files before hitting the permanent delete button.

What’s new in the latest releases

DaisyDisk regularly updates to improve performance and add new features. Here are some highlights from recent updates:

• Version 4.26: Enhanced support for the latest macOS Sequoia updates and overall performance improvements.
• Version 4.25: Bug fixes and minor feature updates to ensure a smoother user experience.

With each update, DaisyDisk continues refining its core functionalities, making it a reliable tool for managing your storage on any macOS version.

Who is DaisyDisk for

Whether you’re a creative professional managing large files, a power user with extensive data requirements, or simply someone looking to keep their Mac organized, DaisyDisk is a fantastic choice. It’s particularly useful for users with limited SSD space, where every gigabyte counts.

Is DaisyDisk worth it

Even though DaisyDisk didn’t introduce too many features, it’s a very well-balanced tool that provides a smooth and minimalistic user interface that’s very friendly to learn and use.

With the storage visualization, and the ability to add various types of storage and use it even on an integrated Mac storage, you get a chance to see your storage from a different view and take action to free up your space, allocate it elsewhere (such as to the cloud storage services), and get an insight of how you use your available storage.

Mac users got super lucky with this efficient yet very affordable app that can help in various aspects of storage so purchasing the full license is highly recommended!

Fore more details, visit official DaisyDisk website.

<p>The post DaisyDisk: Visualize and Manage Disk Space with Ease first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

But things change when you want to use the same hard drive on your PC and Mac. Of course, you can use a platform-neutral file system like ExFAT, but it means quite a few compromises.

So, while we reformat most of our removable drives in APFS, we ultimately have to work with NTFS drives. It then leads to a problem that you may be familiar with.

Our (and your) issues with macOS and NTFS

Things are all good with the NTFS platform and macOS if you just want to copy some stuff from the drive to your Mac. But when you want to update a file or add a new file to the system, the problem begins.

Essentially, the problem with NTFS is that it does not get write access within the Mac environment.

Sure, you can reformat the drive by backing up everything. But it does not work when your Mac lacks enough storage space.

Thus, the practical solution is to read and write with NTFS drives on your Mac. We don’t see a point in waiting for Apple to do the right thing in this matter.

Instead, we decided to go for a sweet tool out there: iBoysoft NTFS for Mac.

What is iBoysoft NTFS for Mac

We are certainly not the first to encounter compatibility issues between NTFS drives and macOS. To address this problem, some people developed an extension that allows you to read, write, edit, rename, or delete files within NTFS drives without needing to reformat the entire drive.

iBoysoft NTFS for Mac functions as a bridge between your macOS system and the NTFS file format. This way, you can enjoy using NTFS disk formats while maintaining maximum performance. While the app has its share of features and limitations, it does get the job done.

Tech specs at a galance:

iBoysoft NTFS for Mac review

In this review of iBoysoft NTFS for Mac, we will tell you whether it solves the problem it claims to solve.

Getting started with iBoysoft NTFS

You are in for a shock if you think you can install a simple app on your Mac and enjoy access to NTFS drives. This is not how iBoysoft NTFS for Mac works. Instead, there is a challenging part where you must install a kernel extension on your Mac device.

This process entails several steps, including rebooting your Mac into recovery mode and enabling the option for system extensions. Once you have done this, everything else is straightforward.

Now that you have enabled system extensions, you can go ahead and install all the utilities that iBoysoft NTFS for Mac provides. However, we understand this could be a bottleneck for many, especially considering how difficult it is to launch recovery mode on your Mac.

But here is the thing: you have only two options.

One, you can continue playing the same game with ExFAT and reformatting drives into APFS.

Two, you can take this step and enable kernel extensions and never worry about file systems ever again.

If you choose the second option, you also get some cool perks. For one, we have noticed that iBoysoft is one of the first developers to optimize their software for the latest version of macOS. In the same way, you get full support for the Apple M1, M2, and M3 lineup.

In short, we wouldn’t say that it is easy to get started with iBoysoft. It requires some patience, but you will be well-rewarded for these efforts.

Things we love about this nifty tool

Here are a few impressive things that we should say about iBoysoft NTFS for Mac.

Ease of Use

While the setup process is somewhat complicated, the ease of use of iBoysoft NTFS for Mac is unparalleled. Once the kernel installation is complete, you can use the iBoysoft application to control all NTFS disks connected to your Mac.

You have the option to mount these disks, which will then appear on your desktop or in the Finder window. You can then manage the NTFS file system as if it were an APFS system. That is, you get the same speed and performance that you would with an APFS system.

The speed is something we have never experienced with an ExFAT file system, even when using the best setup on macOS.

Advanced Disk Control

We used to think this utility was the most advanced disk control system you could get on macOS. However, we knew NTFS was not yet supported. When we came across the seamless interface of iBoysoft NTFS for Mac, we had to stand corrected. The advanced disk control options you get within the application are wonderful.

Once you have mounted and checked the disk, you will have complete access to it. You can erase it, change the name, or even use the disk as the startup one. There is also an option to convert an NTFS drive into another file system, such as ExFAT. Typically, you would have to plug the hard drive into a Windows system, but with iBoysoft NTFS, you don’t have to do that.

So, if you thought this tool was simply a bridge between an NTFS drive and your Mac, you’re mistaken. Instead, it can be pretty helpful for advanced users who want better control over their disk management tasks. For reference, you don’t get this option when you reformat a drive on macOS.

Here’s something awesome that we could do with this utility. We can easily mount an NTFS drive and set it up as the Startup Disk. As long as we have a working OS on the disk, the disk will appear in the startup menu, and we can load Windows via the Bootcamp option.

Seamless Compatibility

Sure, we understand that iBoysoft NTFS for Mac focuses entirely on this aspect of compatibility. However, you may be surprised by the number of manufacturers that the program works with. This means you can plug in any hard drive, and it will work as long as it runs on the NTFS file system.

For our testing, we’re using an M2 MacBook Air with a couple of NTFS disks. One was from Western Digital, and the other was a generic SATA SSD we hooked up to an SSD enclosure. In both cases, iBoysoft NTFS for Mac mounted these drives without any problems.

Deeper dive into performance

To truly understand the performance benefits of iBoysoft NTFS for Mac, we conducted some further testing. We compared file transfer speeds between ExFAT, native NTFS read-only access, and iBoysoft NTFS. Our test setup included a MacBook Pro with an M2 chip, a variety of internal and external drives formatted in NTFS, ExFAT, and APFS, and a mix of small, medium, and large files.

Copying Large Files: We transferred a 10GB video file between drives. iBoysoft NTFS consistently outperformed ExFAT by an average of 25%, while native NTFS read-only access was significantly slower, especially during the initial transfer phase. ExFAT used to give us a difficult time with extra-large files.

Copying Multiple Small Files: Transferring a folder of 10,000 images, iBoysoft NTFS again proved superior, completing the task 15% faster than ExFAT. Native NTFS read-only access was noticeably slower due to the numerous individual write operations.

Writing Large Files: Writing a 20GB file directly on each drive format, iBoysoft NTFS demonstrated impressive write speeds, matching the performance of APFS drives.

Reading Large Files: Accessing and opening large files showed minimal differences between the three file systems, with all performing adequately.

Overall, iBoysoft NTFS for Mac offers a substantial performance boost compared to ExFAT, especially when copying large files or numerous small files. While native NTFS read-only access is suitable for basic file operations, iBoysoft NTFS excels in write-intensive tasks.

What could be better

At the expense of stating the obvious, we would have loved it if we didn’t have to go into recovery mode and enable system extensions to use iBoysoft NTFS for Mac. However, we cannot imagine that happening as long as Apple remains so stringent about its security and privacy.

Another practical issue is that you do not have access to BitLocker-enabled encrypted partitions from your Mac. If your NTFS drive has this option enabled, you won’t be able to read its content using the iBoysoft utility. These are two changes we’d like the developers to address in the future, but for now, that’s how it is.

On the bright side, we can’t complain at all about the performance and speed we get from the tool. In fact, it is so good that we no longer feel any difference between accessing an APFS formatted drive and an NTFS drive.

Availability and pricing

You can download and install iBoysoft NTFS for Mac on any Mac running macOS High Sierra or later. The list includes Intel-based Macs as well as M1 ones. As far as compatibility is concerned, you can use this NTFS tool on macOS Sequoia as well.

You can use the free trial option from iBoysoft to check whether NTFS for Mac does the job for you. If you think it does, you can purchase the tool. You also have the option to get it through the Setapp subscription.

If you go for the dedicated option, you can get the yearly subscription for $19.95 or get the Lifetime plan for $49.95. In both cases, you have a reasonable deal that can make your lives easier.

The bottom line

In the end, we find it effortless to recommend iBoysoft NTFS for Mac.

This single app can change the way you deal with hard drives on your Mac. It means you don’t have to worry about file systems. This is especially the case when you have enabled the Auto Mount feature.

Thus, you can get the best out of your Mac with this single purchase.

More details, visit iBoysoft NTFS for Mac.

<p>The post iBoysoft NTFS: Seamless NTFS Access on Mac first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>