MacPaw, the developer behind CleanMyMac, has added some new features to the tool. In the huge list of updates, however, we found something so impressive — Space Lens. It has been designed to help you clean up unwanted files from your Mac, but it’s different from other tools for the same purpose.

In this article, we will be talking more about Space Lens and how you can use Space Lens in CleanMyMac to remove unwanted files from your Mac. Before we get into the how-to part, let’s have a good look at what Space Lens can offer.

What is Space Lens?

Space Lens is an all-new CleanMyMac module that works as disk storage analyzer and optimizer. It means you can analyze your macOS disk and understand the files taking up space. In other words, CleanMyMac Space Lens is your answer to the question — where have all my storage space gone?

Simply put, Space Lens will help you see and clear out unwanted files taking up precious disk space.

How does Space Lens work?

Space Lens in CleanMyMac works the same way every other disk analyzer works. It will analyze your Mac disk thoroughly, find out which folders are taking up space, and show you the respective information. In case you are wondering what’s different, it’s the UI.

The biggest problem with disk analyzers is that they get really clumsy at times. They may have a GUI, but it isn’t easy to know which apps are taking up storage space. CleanMyMac makes all the difference here. The tool displays all the important information through an intuitive User Interface.

At a single glance, you can know which part of your computer is taking up all the space. Thereafter, you will be able to navigate and remove all the files. On any day, CleanMyMac Space Lens is better than the built-in macOS disk analyzer.

Yeah, you guessed that reason behind the name. CleanMyMac Space Lens lets you zoom into the disk and space. Awesome, huh?

Is Space Lens useful?

Do you love extra storage space on your Mac? If yes, Space Lens is super-useful on any day. If you do already have CleanMyMac installed on your Mac, it’s like a cherry on the cake, though. You can update the program to get the brand-new feature.

We also found that the Space Lens feature helps in quick decision making. Because it represents all data via Graphical Interface, you can easily decide whether you want to keep a particular file on the device. It makes everything easier.

Personal Experience: Space Lens is probably the feature I use the most on CleanMyMac. As I test apps and explore media, storage space on my Mac gets shrunk every day. After a few days, I have no idea where things are. The Space Lens interface is so good that I can make meaningful decisions in a few seconds.

How to use Space Lens to remove unwanted files?

Now that you are well-informed about the Space Lens feature, shall we check out the steps?

Step 1

You have to update your CleanMyMac to the latest version. If you are using Setapp, it will be automatically updated. In that case, you can simply open the CleanMyMac app from Launchpad.

Once you have opened the tool, go to the bottom part of the sidebar and choose Space Lens from the sidebar interface.

Step 2

Now, you can see the introductory screen of the Space Lens feature in CleanMyMac. As it says, Space Lens will help you visualize what is taking up your storage space and reclaim that space.

To proceed, you may have to click the Grant Access button. This means that CleanMyMac needs full access to the file system.

Step 3

To enable Full System Access, you have to go to System Preferences -> Security & Privacy -> Privacy tab and choose Full Disk Access section.

You won’t probably see any option out there. So, to add CleanMyMac to the section, you have to provide the system password. Click on the lock and provide the password.

Once you are done, click on the + button and choose CleanMyMac from the Applications folder. That’s it, it’s ready to roll.

Once you are back in the CleanMyMac Space Lens interface, click on the Scan button.

Step 4

In this step, CleanMyMac will build the storage map of your Mac. This means that the software will try to understand where you have placed your files and how much they weigh.

Wait for some time until CleanMyMac finishes the scanning process. This may take up to a few minutes, depending on your storage space. The process on my MacBook Air was done in a few seconds.

Personal Experience: It’s not that I haven’t tried other disk cleanup tools. DiskDaisy used to be a favorite of mine for this purpose. However, the sheer simplicity of CleanMyMac Space Lens requires some praise. So, when you prioritize ease of use, I will stick to CleanMyMac.

Step 5

Now, you can see the fully-fledged interface of the storage space analyzer in CleanMyMac Space Lens. As you can see below, the screen is split into two sections.

On the left side, there is a traditional list of directories, along with the size and number of items. On the right side, CleanMyMac shows a bubble-like cloud of directories. The size of the individual cloud depends on the size.

This means that the largest folder would be the biggest bubble.

Step 6

This step is easy. You can navigate through the whole file system by hovering over or clicking on the folders. The folders would open up the sub-folders, and you can go on until you find the final file.

If you want the traditional form of navigation, you can use the pane on the left as well.

Step 7

Now, after you have found the most space-consuming files/folders, you can easily delete them. Just pick the folders you want to delete using the right-click menu or from the left-side pane.

A ‘Review and Remove’ button would become active at the bottom. Click on the button, and CleanMyMac will start the cleaning process. There is also an option to review the selected files.

Note that CleanMyMac doesn’t remove system files for your Mac’s safety. That’s why some essential items are disabled, and you can’t select them for removal.

Personal Experience: One problem I regularly face with uninstalling apps is the presence of leftover content. However, when I use CleanMyMac and Space Lens, I don’t have to worry about application support files and cache. Considering that my Mac has 256GB of storage space, every GB that I save is precious!

Step 8

That’s it. In a second or two, CleanMyMac Space Lens would finish the file removal process. The whole thing is super-fast, and Space Lens would also show you a summary when it’s done.

The bottom line

That is how you use CleanMyMac Space Lens to remove unwanted files from your Mac. As you just saw, the process is super-easy and doesn’t take more than a few seconds. But, when compared to other tools for disk analysis, CleanMyMac does the job very well.

And, we would recommend CleanMyMac all the way more now that it has such a cool feature. I loved this feature, and it is completely secure. The tool understands which files are essential for your macOS system and what to remove.

Altogether, it’s great that you can now remove everything unwanted from the same space.

<p>The post How to Use SpaceLens in CleanMyMac first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

Apple unveiled some truly impressive updates this time around — from Apple Intelligence, the company’s powerful on-device AI system, to new built-in features across macOS 16 and iOS 26. But with all the innovation came a familiar pattern: Apple once again Sherlocked a number of popular third-party apps.

For the uninitiated, “Sherlocked” is a term that describes what happens when Apple builds features into its OS that directly replicate the functionality of existing third-party apps — often rendering those apps less relevant, if not obsolete.

So, is it time to uninstall your favorite tools and just go all-in with Apple’s built-ins?

Not so fast.

What got sherlocked at WWDC 2025?

Here’s a quick look at some standout areas where Apple introduced native features that suspiciously resemble beloved indie tools:

While these features are certainly welcome for everyday users, they also raise a question for power users and productivity pros: Are Apple’s “good enough” tools actually enough?

Still sweet: third-party apps that go further

At TheSweetBits, we’ve always believed in discovering tools that bring more depth, customization, and delight to your Mac experience. And while Apple has done a solid job integrating basic versions of popular features, many third-party tools are still worth holding onto — if not upgrading to.

Here’s why:

1. CleanShot X vs. macOS Screenshot Tool

Apple’s screenshot tool is now more capable, with better markup and quick sharing. But CleanShot X? It’s in a different league.

• Scrollable screenshots
• Instant cloud sharing
• Built-in screen recorder and webcam overlay
• Annotations that actually feel pro-level

Why it still wins: Ideal for content creators, educators, and remote teams.

2. Day One vs. Apple Journal App

Apple’s Journal app added AI-powered reflections, mood logging, and suggested journaling prompts. But Day One has been doing all that — and more — for years.

• Multiple journals
• Custom templates
• PDF export and printing
• End-to-end encryption across platforms

Why it still wins: More polished, flexible, and built for real journaling habits.

3. Otter AI vs. Apple Transcripts

Apple’s call recording and transcription are neat additions. But what about:

• Speaker detection?
• Team collaboration?
• Real-time captions and meeting summaries?
• Otter AI is still far ahead.

Why it still wins: For professionals and teams who rely on detailed, shareable transcripts.

4. Grammarly vs. Apple Writing Tools

Sure, Apple Intelligence can suggest edits in Mail and Notes, but it lacks:

• Cross-platform support
• Context-aware tone suggestions
• AI rephrasing, shortening, or expanding

Why it still wins: Grammarly adapts to how you write, not just your typos.

5. 1Password vs. iCloud Keychain

Apple now offers password autofill and even 2FA — great! But if you need:

• Secure sharing
• Password auditing
• Cross-platform syncing (especially with Windows or Android)
• Team management
• 1Password is still unmatched.

Why it still wins: Security without compromise, beyond Apple’s walled garden.

TextExpander vs. Apple’s Quick Snippets

Apple’s new text expansion via Spotlight and Shortcuts is handy for simple inserts. But when it comes to real productivity, TextExpander still plays in a whole different league.

• Dynamic snippets with fill-in fields, optional sections, and dropdown menus
• Team sharing and collaboration features
• Real-time sync across Mac, Windows, iOS, and Chrome
• Built-in statistics and snippet usage tracking
• Auto-corrections, templates, and rich formatting support

Why it still wins: Perfect for teams, support reps, writers, and anyone who types a lot — TextExpander doesn’t just save keystrokes, it scales communication.

One-size-fits-all? Not quite.

Apple’s updates in macOS 16 and iOS 26 are fantastic for the average user. But if you’re someone who:

• Needs deeper customization
• Works cross-platform
• Values advanced workflows
• Prefers premium support and updates

Then third-party apps still matter — a lot.

In many cases, Apple takes inspiration from the best apps out there. But it rarely outdoes them in flexibility or power. That’s where the indie developer spirit shines: creating apps with personality, purpose, and professional-grade features.

What’s next for developers?

WWDC 2025 wasn’t just about new features — it was a loud reminder to developers: If you build something great, Apple might just build it, too.

But that doesn’t mean the story ends there.

Standing out in the post-sherlock world

If you’re an indie dev or small team, here’s how to stay competitive:

• Go deeper, not broader. Apple’s features tend to be shallow but polished. Build rich features power users love.
• Double down on cross-platform. Apple stays within its ecosystem — your edge is freedom across macOS, Windows, Android, and the web.
• Build with Apple — not just beside it. Use new frameworks like App Intents, Swift Assistants, and Apple Intelligence integrations to offer something Apple can’t (or won’t).
• Tell your story. Users love knowing who’s behind the tools they use. Indie passion is a feature, not a footnote.

“When Apple copies you, it means you’re doing something right. When users stay with you, it means you’re doing something better.”

Keep innovating with community & feedback

If there’s one advantage indie devs have, it’s speed and closeness to users. Iterate fast. Listen more. And keep building what people actually want — not just what’s easy to ship at scale.

Final thoughts: the real sweet spot

Apple may “Sherlock” apps, but it rarely kills them. In fact, it often validates their importance.

If Apple’s new features work for you — great. But if you want to go further, the sweet picks are still out there. And we’ll keep finding them for you.

Check out our Sweetness Directory for apps that push your Mac beyond the defaults.

Got a favorite app that’s still better than Apple’s version? Or building something new in the Apple Intelligence era? Let’s talk. We’d love to feature it.

<p>The post Sherlocked, Not Replaced: Mac Apps That Hold Their Ground After WWDC 2025 first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

TL;DR: Space Lens Highlights

What’s New

According to MacPaw’s announcement, Space Lens was rebuilt from the ground up after being temporarily removed in earlier versions of CleanMyMac. The company said it wanted to “reinvent the feature with a better look and improved logic” and is “delighted to reintroduce it in CleanMyMac 5.”

Key updates include:

• A redesigned bubble map interface for clearer disk usage visualization.
• Improved scanning speed and accuracy.
• Enhanced safety mechanisms to avoid critical file deletion.
• Seamless integration with the newly unified “My Clutter” module.
• Support for system, user, and external volumes.

MacPaw emphasized that Space Lens helps users “analyze wha’s taking up space on a Mac at a glance” and remove unnecessary clutter quickly and safely.

What This Means

For users who’ve missed Space Lens since its disappearance, the return of this tool addresses a major gap. While CleanMyMac has always offered robust cleaning options, this module now brings a visually driven approach to identifying storage bloat.

It also reflects MacPaw’s responsiveness to user feedback—especially on Reddit, where multiple users expressed frustration over its removal. As noted in user comments, “The one good tool was Space Lens and now it’s gone.” Clearly, MacPaw listened—and acted.

What It Looks Like

The updated Space Lens visualizes your storage in the form of colored, proportionally sized bubbles—each representing a folder or file based on its size. Users can zoom into these areas, navigate deeper into subfolders, and preview or delete items with a click.

The tool also groups files into categories like Old & Unused or Large & Rarely Opened, helping users make smarter cleanup decisions.

You can scan your home folder, full disk, or any mounted external volume. After scanning, just click on any bubble to see detailed contents and remove what you no longer need.

How Does it Work (Testing Tool)

To see how well the updated Space Lens performs, we put it through its paces on a MacBook Air (M4, macOS Sequoia), loaded with a realistic mix of old downloads, creative projects, and cached system junk. The Mac had around 20GB of free space remaining—a perfect test case for cleanup.

After launching Space Lens from the CleanMyMac sidebar, we scanned the entire user folder. The scan was surprisingly fast, taking just under 10 seconds. Within moments, we were greeted by an interactive bubble chart that mapped out our disk usage by folder size—Documents, Downloads, Applications, and even obscure subfolders buried inside Library directories.

Highlight: Unlike Finder’s “Get Info” or even macOS’s Storage Management, Space Lens exposed hidden space hogs—like multi-gigabyte video render cache files from Final Cut Pro and large mail attachments tucked away in ~/Library/Mail.

Using the bubble interface, we could zoom in on any folder, drill down to the file level, and choose what to delete or review. One click opened the file in Finder, another sent it to the trash. Importantly, system-critical files were visually flagged as protected, avoiding accidental deletion.

We also tested Space Lens with an external SSD connected via USB-C. It scanned the external drive just as smoothly—revealing archived installers and long-forgotten media backups.

Also: How to Use SpaceLens in CleanMyMac

Why We Care

Macs are fast, but they’re not immune to clutter. Tools like CleanMyMac’s Space Lens help even non-technical users understand and manage their storage in a visual, engaging way. Its return is not only a win for usability, but also a nod to user-driven product development.

MacPaw’s decision to rebuild and reintroduce this tool reinforces the idea that Mac utility software can be powerful without being complicated. For those doing regular digital cleanups—or trying to avoid buying more iCloud storage—this is a feature worth having back.

Keep reading:

• CleanMyMac 2025 Update: Is It Still Worth Using?
• How CleanMyMac Helped Me Revive My Mac
• Best Mac Cleaners in 2025 (Tried & Tested)
• CleanMyMac vs Sensei: Battle of Mac Performance Tools

<p>The post CleanMyMac Revamps Space Lens for Enhanced Storage Management first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

In this article, we explore three key areas influenced by this year’s ADA:

• Emerging trends shaping app development and user expectations
• Practical tips developers can learn from award-winning apps
• Behind-the-scenes stories from standout winners like iA Writer, Moises, and CapWords

How the Apple Design Awards set trends

The ADA isn’t just recognition—it’s a bellwether for where apps are headed. Here’s how 2025 winners are shaping the future:

Innovation as a Baseline

From spatial computing to AI-driven features, apps like Moises and Pawz show that users now expect innovation. Developers who go beyond the obvious earn attention—and loyalty.

Accessibility Front and Center

Multiple 2025 winners highlight inclusive design. It’s no longer optional; it’s a product-defining strength. Apps that adapt to you will win out over those that force users to adapt to them.

Seamless Cross-Device Experiences

Apps like ia Writer and Lumy demonstrate that users expect continuity across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Vision Pro. Syncing, layout adaptation, and performance must feel native on every screen.

A New Standard for Immersion

With eye tracking, spatial audio, and haptic feedback, immersive UX is becoming the norm. Developers must now think beyond just screens—toward experiences that respond, adapt, and engage.

Practical tips for developers inspired by ADA winners

Winning an Apple Design Award is no small feat. The 2025 winners demonstrate a variety of best practices that developers can learn from to elevate their own apps:

1. Prioritize User-Centered Design

Apps like CapWords and Lumy shine because they solve real user problems with elegant simplicity. Focus on understanding your users’ needs deeply and design interfaces that feel intuitive and natural. Avoid clutter and unnecessary complexity.

2. Leverage Apple’s Latest Technologies

Many winners harness cutting-edge Apple frameworks and hardware features, such as SwiftUI for fluid interfaces, Vision Pro for spatial computing, and advanced machine learning APIs for AI-driven features. Staying current with Apple’s ecosystem enables developers to create more immersive and powerful experiences.

3. Emphasize Accessibility and Inclusivity

Apps like Speechify and Train Fitness highlight the importance of making apps accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. Incorporate VoiceOver support, dynamic type, and adaptable UI elements to broaden your app’s reach and impact.

4. Deliver Delight Through Interaction and Visuals

Games like Balatro and creative apps like Feather: Draw in 3D demonstrate how thoughtful animations, haptics, and sound design can create emotional connections with users. Invest in polish and responsiveness to make your app feel alive.

5. Optimize for Performance and Responsiveness

Smooth performance is a hallmark of ADA winners. Whether it’s real-time audio processing in Moises or instant translation in CapWords, users expect apps to be fast and reliable. Profile your app carefully and optimize critical paths.

Behind the scenes: the making of ADA-winning apps

To understand what sets ADA winners apart, let’s take a closer look at three standout apps and how they were made:

iA Writer: Minimalism Meets Power

iA Writer has long been beloved for its clean, distraction-free writing environment. The development team focuses on simplicity, using SwiftUI to craft a consistent experience across devices. Their attention to typography, layout, and subtle animations creates a calm space that fosters creativity. The challenge was balancing minimalism with advanced features like Markdown support and seamless iCloud syncing—achieved through meticulous design and engineering.

Moises: AI-Powered Music Innovation

Moises transforms music practice by letting users isolate instruments, adjust pitch, and manipulate tempo with ease. The team faced the technical challenge of integrating sophisticated AI audio processing into an intuitive interface. They optimized performance for iPad and Mac, ensuring real-time responsiveness. Their success lies in making complex technology accessible to musicians of all levels, supported by a sleek UI and thoughtful onboarding.

CapWords: Breaking Language Barriers in Real Time

CapWords leverages AI and Vision Pro’s spatial computing to provide live meeting translation and transcription. The developers focused on accuracy, privacy, and seamless integration with Apple’s spatial audio and eye-tracking features. This required deep expertise in machine learning and user experience design to create an app that feels natural in professional settings. Their innovation enhances remote collaboration, making communication effortless across languages.

Final thoughts

The 2025 Apple Design Awards remind us that the future of app development lies at the intersection of:

• Innovation
• Thoughtful, inclusive design
• Cutting-edge performance and polish

Whether you’re a solo dev or building for millions, the lessons here are clear: stay close to user needs, embrace Apple’s newest capabilities, and never compromise on quality.

For users, this year’s winners raise expectations for what great apps should feel like—intuitive, smart, fast, and delightful.

<p>The post Inside the 2025 Apple Design Awards: Trends, Dev Tips & Behind-the-Scenes Stories first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

But here’s the truth: even Macs slow down, crash, and run out of space—especially when junk files, app leftovers, and system clutter pile up.

Think of your Mac like a high-performance car. It needs regular tune-ups to stay fast and efficient.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to clean up your Mac—along with the best third-party Mac cleaner apps to help reclaim storage, boost speed, and keep your system running like new.

TL;DR: 2025 best Mac cleaner apps at a glance

• DaisyDisk for visualizing and removing files quickly
• CleanMyMac for comprehensive cleaning and optimization
• Sensei for system monitoring and cleaning
• App Cleaner & Uninstaller for thoroughly removing unwanted apps
• MacKeeper for automatic cleanup and real-time protection
• Disk Doctor Pro for disk space recovery
• OnyX for Mac for free utility with advanced maintenance features

What Redditors say about Mac cleaner apps

Before diving into our picks, we checked in on what real users in Reddit’s r/mac and r/apple communities are saying. Here’s what the crowd thinks:

• Less is more: Lightweight tools like AppCleaner and OnyX are community favorites.
• Skepticism toward paid tools: Many users are wary of “bloated” or overly aggressive cleaners.
• Built-in tools praised: Some say Apple’s own storage management features are all you need.
• DaisyDisk gets visual love: Redditors appreciate its simple drag-n-delete interface to free up space fast.

macOS tools vs. third-party cleaners

macOS has some solid cleanup tools built-in:

• Storage Management (About This Mac > Storage > Manage).
• Finder Smart Folders to locate large or duplicate files.
• Activity Monitor for memory and performance.

These are solid for basic cleanup, but they lack depth and automation.

With third-party apps, you can:

• Clean hidden system junk, old backups, email attachments.
• Uninstall apps completely—leftovers and all.
• Automate routine maintenance and scheduling.
• Detect performance issues early.
• Save you from manual file-hunting.
• Have safer cleanup options—avoiding accidental system damage.
• Often more cost-effective than upgrading to iCloud or buying an external drive.

Verdict? If you’re comfortable with DIY cleanup, macOS tools are fine. But for deeper cleaning, automation, and time-saving, the following third-party Mac cleaner apps are often worth it.

Evaluating and testing the Mac cleaner apps

In the past two weeks, we reviewed over 20 Mac cleaning apps for personal use. It’s a competitive market, but here are some critical questions when we consider a Mac cleaning app for this coverage, so keep these in mind when you choose one.

• Is the app intuitive and easy to use?
• Is the app secure and safe to use?
• Does it offer a free trial? And, not come bundled with other apps installation?
• What cleaning features are included?
• Is it priced reasonably with respect to the powerful features/functionalities we get?
• Is it compatible with the latest version of macOS?

We attempted to install the Mac cleaner apps on a test system with a representative amount of clutter (downloaded files, application leftovers, etc.), run a baseline benchmark to measure disk space usage and system performance metrics, and left them for a while so we could review the post-cleaning results, including available disk space and potential performance improvements. (Read the full rundown of how we select tools to feature on TheSweetBits blog.)

Based on that experience, here are the top apps we think work best for Mac users. Additionally, we’ve outlined the specific purposes for which each app shines.

DaisyDisk: Best for quick cleanup

DaisyDisk is our first recommendation if you need an app to clean your Mac quickly. It works great when you want to free up space on your Mac. But it works better when you want to know why you have insufficient storage on your Mac. Compared to the Storage Settings utility, DaisyDisk presents things more clearly.

Things we love

DaisyDisk is a beautiful yet powerful disk space analyzer that scans the drives on your Mac and gives you a visual overview of what’s eating up space on your Mac. It displays files in a pinwheel-shaped disk map, letting you quickly locate and clean up large files.

You can also use the built-in QuickLook preview to see what you might want to get rid of (you can also reveal the files/folders in Finder to take a closer look). But the good part is that DaisyDisk will warn you if you are about to delete something important to the system.

DaisyDisk also understands that you may have to remove files/folders from different parts of the file system. So, there is a collection drawer to which you can add contents. Then, once you review everything, you can delete everything in a single click.

Compared to the other space analyzer tools we have tested, DaisyDisk is pretty intelligent. For example, on top of showing storage space consumption, the cleaning app also points out free and purgeable space. It means DaisyDisk can help you revive space that other cleaning apps do not even bother about.

In the long run, using DaisyDisk to clean up storage space on your Mac is a better option than most forms of storage space upgrade.

What could be better

Even though DaisyDisk does an incredible job telling us how to clean up storage space on Mac, it doesn’t go beyond that point. For instance, you do not get actionable information about issues like junk files or residual stuff from the system or third-party applications.

It would also be great if DaisyDisk were proactive about interactions with system folders. At this point, there is a higher chance of interfering with system files. But, again, it is not desired when relying on a dedicated Mac cleaner app.

Pricing

On the bright side, DaisyDisk does not cost much. You can purchase a single license of the app for just $9.99, which is nothing compared to what other storage upgrade solutions cost. It also offers a 7-day free trial.

TheSweetBits verdict: If you’re a visual thinker and want to clean up space fast, DaisyDisk gives you a stunning bird’s-eye view of your disk usage.

CleanMyMac: Best for comprehensive cleaning

CleanMyMac has been our go-to Mac cleaning app for years, and we love recommending this app to our readers. But it does not stop us from objectively reviewing what this Mac cleaner can do. And after testing the latest version of CleanMyMac on macOS Sequoia we believe it deserves this top position.

Things we love

To keep things as simple as possible, CleanMyMac contains everything you need to revive your Mac and keep it that way. We are talking about a combination of system junk cleaning, anti-malware protection, and speed optimization. So, it checks all the boxes you expect from this cleaner app.

On the Cleanup side, you get dedicated cleaners for System Junk, Mail Attachments, and Trash Bins. These utilities ensure that residual/junk files do not take up your Mac’s storage space. Finally, when we come to the Protection aspect, you get malware removal and privacy enhancement utilities.

CleanMyMac also packs dedicated utilities to deal with speed optimization and maintenance. They do a lot of tasks that can take you hours if done manually. You can restore your Mac to the best state possible with a single click. We also loved the dedicated tools for uninstalling and updating your installed apps.

The cleaning app also takes care of large files on your system. For instance, you can use the Space Lens option to see how your Mac’s storage space is used. Similarly, the Large & Old Files utility will help you eliminate unused/huge files from the Mac. Finally, the Shredder utility comes in handy while deleting confidential data.

The best part is that all these utilities work hand in hand. For instance, you can use the app’s smart assistant to carry out all these tasks. Moreover, if you do not want to keep the fully-fledged app open, a simple menu-bar app of CleanMyMac will give you timely updates.

What could be better

While we love how comprehensive CleanMyMac is, we cannot say it is perfect. For instance, the malware removal utility cannot replace a fully-fledged anti-malware program. So, it is an area where we would like to see some improvement.

It is also true that CleanMyMac can be a little expensive for some people. It would be nice if the developers could decrease the price to an extent. On the bright side, you can get the CleanMyMac app as a part of the Setapp subscription, which means you spend only a fraction of the amount.

Pricing

CleanMyMac uses a freemium model, where you can try the app before unlocking all features. So, when you go premium, you can find plans starting at $34.95 per Mac. CleanMyMac also offers 10% discount exclusively for TheSweetBits readers.

TheSweetBits verdict: If you’re short on time and want a cleaner, malware scanner, and performance monitor in one, CleanMyMac delivers convenience—especially for non-techies.

Sensei: Best for system monitoring and cleaning

If you think CleanMyMac does not offer much information about your Mac while reviving it, you may like to consider Sensei. The app combines a powerful system monitoring tool and an all-in-one cleaning and optimization solution.

Things we love

When you get started with Sensei, it provides a comprehensive overview of your Mac. Depending on your machine, you can track the overall status of the SSD, RAM, CPU, GPU, and battery. Thanks to the intuitive UI throughout the app, you can understand if something is acting unusual.

But Sensei takes things further with the additional tool it packs. For instance, if you go to the Utilities section, you can find dedicated options to optimize your Mac, uninstall apps, clean junk files, or even trim your SSD. That’s right. If you have an old Mac with an SSD that could use the trimming feature, Sensei can help you.

You can also get an insane amount of monitoring data from your hardware components. For instance, there are dedicated sections for Storage, Graphics, Cooling, and Battery. So, if you want to know how much stress you are putting on your CPU or GPU, you can do it with Sensei.

More importantly, Sensei presents every critical piece of data simply. So, for instance, when you want to check the temperature of different system parts, you can see it in simple graphs. And if you want to keep an eye on what is happening with your Mac, you can keep the Sensei Monitor on your menu bar.

Overall, if you need a system monitor that also fixes many issues with your Mac, you cannot go wrong with Sensei. It is also great that Cindori, the developer, does a great job updating the app for the latest Mac desktops and notebooks.

What could be better

Even though Sensei works excellently with the latest macOS versions, we cannot say the same about backward compatibility. For instance, you cannot run this app on a Mac running a version older than macOS Catalina. So, if you plan to revive a considerably old Mac, you need something like CleanMyMac.

Similarly, although the cleaning options with Sensei are pretty comprehensive, you do not get many options for scheduling or notifications. It means you must keep an eye on where the RAM and disk usage are, for instance.

Pricing

You can download Sensei for free from the official website and use it for 14 days as a part of the free trial. After that, it costs you $29 per year or $59 (regular) per license, which you can use on up to three Macs.

TheSweetBits’ verdict: For users who want deep insights into their Mac’s performance alongside powerful cleaning and optimization, Sensei offers a great blend of system monitoring and practical utilities.

App Cleaner & Uninstaller: Best for app uninstalling

Sometimes, you do not need a comprehensive tool like CleanMyMac or Sensei. Instead, you need a more specific choice. In those instances, you can consider App Cleaner & Uninstaller by Nektony. This Mac cleaner app is designed to help you remove apps, system extensions, and leftover files.

Things we love

App Cleaner & Uninstaller by Nektony offers a few advantages of being a dedicated Mac cleaner for removing apps and extensions. Therefore, you get multiple sorting/filtering options in each section. For instance, in the Applications section, you can sort your apps based on size and usage.

On the other hand, when you move to Startup Programs, you can see a simple-to-edit list of apps you have set up for startup login. Editing these login agents using App Cleaner & Uninstaller by Nektony is faster and more efficient than going to System Preferences.

In the same way, you can deal with extensions and remaining files. These two features are great if you install too many apps on your Mac for work or personal use. In addition, the ability to remove extensions will help you keep your browsers clean and optimized.

With the correct permissions, App Cleaner & Uninstaller by Nektony can make things even easier by changing the default apps for different file formats. This task is usually tedious because you have to locate other file formats individually. But with this app cleaner, you can do it from a single screen.

What could be better

Honestly, we do not find anything problematic with App Cleaner & Uninstaller by Nektony. Judging it as one of the dedicated apps for removing apps, it does more than what it is supposed to. And the developers are great when it comes to keeping the UI and features up-to-date.

However, you may be disappointed if you expect App Cleaner & Uninstaller by Nektony to clean your entire Mac system. There are some areas where you need external help. For instance, the app does help you get rid of system junk.

Pricing

You can either subscribe to the app for $11.95 or pay $49.95 as a one-time purchase fee. Before you do either of these, you can use the app in the free trial mode for 14 days.

TheSweetBits’ verdict: If your primary need is thoroughly removing unwanted applications and their lingering files, App Cleaner &amp; Uninstaller is a highly effective, dedicated solution.

MacKeeper: Best for automatic cleaning

If you want cleaning features along with automation, you might want to check out MacKeeper. In many ways, MacKeeper is similar to CleanMyMac, but some of its features make it suitable for this position on this list.

Things we love

MacKeeper checks almost all boxes when considering the features you need for cleaning and speeding up your Mac. For instance, you can easily quit memory-conscious apps and remove system junk files. It also has a malware-scanning utility that works just fine.

This app does a great job of helping you stay away from annoying things like adware and pop-ups. And it goes a step further by monitoring potential data leaks. But, again, it is a feature we do not see on Mac cleaners. You also get a built-in VPN, which does an incredible job.

The app does not hold back in terms of cleaning utilities. For instance, you get a duplicate finder and a smart uninstaller. Similarly, utilities in the Performance section come in handy when freeing up RAM or updating all your apps.

In addition, you can use the MacKeeper cleaner app to stay on top of your digital life. There are a bunch of premium services that you may want to check out. And the tech support from developers is incredible on most days.

What could be better

While we appreciate the richness of features on MacKeeper, we did notice the lack of intuitive design. So, if you want to sit back and relax, the results from the app can be a little overwhelming. So, we would keep that in mind when buying this app.

Rest assured, MacKeeper does everything it can to ensure the best condition for your Mac. And it can be a good solution if you want to make the extra effort to keep your Mac that way.

Pricing

You can get the 12-month plan of MacKeeper for $7.49 per month. There is also a free version, but it does not offer many features that make MacKeeper different in the first place.

TheSweetBits’ verdict: MacKeeper is a solid choice for users seeking an all-in-one solution that includes automated cleaning, real-time protection, and additional privacy features like a built-in VPN.

Disk Doctor Pro: Best for disk cleaning

If you need a different approach to disk cleaning on Mac, we recommend Disk Doctor Pro from Fiplab. This cleaning app does many things that DaisyDisk does not, but you need to make some compromises. So, if you need more than quick cleaning, you should consider this app.

Things we love

The first thing we love about Disk Doctor Pro is that it offers a comprehensive disk cleaning solution. On top of helping you clean up storage space, this app can also deal with other elements like residual files, backups, caches, logs, system junk, etc.

Because it is the Pro version of Disk Doctor, a popular app from Fiplab, you can expect advanced control over your Mac. You also get to decide what you remove from the Mac. It is better than clicking a single button and worrying about what the app may delete.

We also loved the modern UI of Disk Doctor Pro. While it does not provide a graphical overview of how the system storage space is taken up, the UI is easy to navigate and control. You can also make use of filters such as unused applications and installer packages.

What could be better

As we said, even though we love the User Interface of Disk Doctor Pro, it does not quite cut it for advanced users. For instance, you need to use an app like Finder to understand where your most enormous files are located. Then, it simply lists the files matching the criteria.

It is also annoying that Disk Doctor Pro does not have a free trial. So, to even see how the app performs on your PC, you need to purchase the premium version. We would love to see a free trial option with the app. Even the non-Pro version of the app is premium.

Pricing

You can purchase Disk Doctor Pro for just $9.99 from the official website or Mac App Store. It does not have a free trial or free version, though.

TheSweetBits’ verdict: Disk Doctor Pro is ideal for users who need a comprehensive disk cleaning solution beyond basic space analysis, offering detailed control over removing various junk and system files.

OnyX for Mac: Best free cleaning tool

OnyX is a small and free utility that can verify your Mac’s startup disk, run a variety of system scripts for cleaning tasks manually and rebuilding your Mac. The developer offers specific OnyX versions for every major version of macOS. When a new version of macOS comes out, you have to revisit the OnyX site and grab the latest release. Every version is free and very small. So, you won’t waste space.

It’s handy for deleting caches, removing redundant and excessive files and folders, rebuilding databases and indexes, and making your machine run more smoothly and with added disk space. Just be careful playing with these settings. They’re helpful and can improve your Mac’s performance, but if you don’t know what a given setting is supposed to do, you’re probably best off not changing it.

TheSweetBits’ verdict: We think it’s excellent for tech-savvy and experienced Mac users to take significantly more time to get around and find what you need, then learn how to use it, but the result pays.

Honorable mentions

Here are the other Mac cleaner apps we tested for this review. Not every app we tested is listed here, but these are the ones worth mentioning.

CCleaner Professional

For years, the standard in PC cleaner software has been CCleaner. Now, Mac users can benefit from the experience that the Piriform developers bring to the table. CCleaner Professional is quick and easy to use the program, which speeds up your Mac and secures it. Although CCleaner has a free version, there are only some basic features aimed at a faster Mac and privacy protection.

At the premium level with a price of $24.95, you have Automatic Clutter/Browser Cleaning, Duplicate/Large file Cleaning, App Uninstalling, and what they call “Bad Photos Remove Support”. These five cleaning options inside CCleaner can help you remove junk files, trash files, unused data, unwanted files, and software

Though CCleaner Professional has many helpful features, it lacks some options. For instance, it always stays as a simple tool for cleaning temporary files and internet cache.

MacBooster

MacBooster from IObit is a powerful Mac maintenance tool for cleaning up Mac computers and offers proper functionality for its class. MacBooster and Mackeeper have quite similar functionality, offering users several cleaning options and tools: system cleanup, finding duplicates, deleting large files, uninstalling applications, protecting your Mac from virus and malware, etc.

Start by clicking Clean and Boost, for example, and four sections – Internet Security, System Cleanup, System Optimization, and Disk Clean – are scanned for errors, threats, and redundant files. After a quick review, you can simply click the Fix button and proceed. We also liked MacBooster’s performance boost tool, which shuts down low-level services to speed up your Mac further.

MacBooster gives the 14-day trial a whirl, but the trial version of this app can only complete the preliminary steps of each function.  After that, it requires a $2.49/month subscription.

Cleaner One Pro

Cleaner One Pro (formerly known as Dr. Cleaner) does many things that DaisyDisk does not, but you need to make some compromises. So, if you need more than quick cleaning, you may consider this app.

Because it is the Pro version of Dr. Cleaner, a popular app from Trend Micro, you can expect advanced control over your Mac. It deals with other elements like big files, duplicates, app manager, etc. You also get to decide what you remove from the Mac. It is better than clicking a single button and worrying about what the app may delete.

Even though we love the quick cleanup, it does not quite cut it for advanced users. For instance, you need to use an app like Finder to understand where your most enormous files are located. Then, it simply lists the files matching the criteria.

You can purchase Cleaner One Pro for $19.99 from the official website or download it from Mac App Store for free.

Disk Diet

Disk Diet is a tool that automatically scans your Mac’s storage drive and cleans it by deleting all trash files. You don’t have to do a thing. The app will automatically look through the cache and the drive to keep it clean and optimized.

The UI is minimal, and you don’t even have a clear breakdown of the storage space. It features a one-click optimization tool, and you can clean all the trash by just clicking the “Diet” button. Of course, we have included Disk Diet as a limited alternative only. It cannot be compared to DaisyDisk or CleanMyMac on any day. But, if you prefer a tiny tool, Disk Diet helps you with the baby steps.

Disk Diet is a paid Mac app with a price tag of $5. It also offers a limited free trial version that helps you clear 500 MB of trash files.

Hyperspace

This utility takes a different approach to reclaiming disk space by leveraging APFS (Apple File System) technology. Instead of deleting files, Hyperspace identifies duplicate files and optimizes storage by creating “clones” that share the same data while maintaining separate metadata. This non-destructive process ensures that your files remain fully accessible and intact.

Hyperspace is ideal for users who want to save space without risking data loss, especially those with large media libraries or older Macs.

It’s available for a free scan, with pricing options starting at $9.99/month.

OmniDiskSweeper

OmniDiskSweeper is a free disk space analyzer for macOS, developed by The Omni Group. With its simple interface resembling the macOS Finder, the tool lets you view files sorted by size, starting from the largest, making it easy to identify storage hogs.

The app efficiently scans internal and external drives, as well as network volumes, to locate large files. You can easily delete unwanted files with a single click of the “Delete” button, but the software also provides warnings when attempting to delete files critical to macOS or installed applications.

OmniDiskSweeper is completely free to download and use, but it might lack some of the polish or advanced options found in paid alternatives.

FAQs

Are Mac cleaner apps safe to use?

While we cannot talk about all Mac cleaner apps out there, the Mac cleaning software we have recommended on this list are 100% safe to use. We have personally tested these apps and have been using them for months, if not years. So, you do not have to worry about security while choosing any of these apps.

Do I really need a Mac cleaner?

Just like Windows, macOS also generates temporary/junk files over time. If you use your Mac for simple tasks like web browsing or checking email, this won’t be a problem. If you use your Mac for intensive tasks like development, software testing, video editing, or research, you need one of the best Mac cleaner apps.

Does Mac have a system cleanup?

Mac’s got your back on that system cleanup!  First, tackle storage with “Optimize Storage” (Apple logo > About This Mac > Storage > Manage) – it frees up space by offloading dusty files and rarely used apps. Feeling brave? Dive into “Delete System Data” and safely remove temporary caches and leftovers. Spotlight’s your cleanup buddy too – use it to hunt down forgotten apps, bulky files, and pesky duplicates. For resource hogs, Activity Monitor (Applications > Utilities) lets you identify and shut them down with a click. Need to go deeper? Advanced users can access the Library folder (Finder > Go > Go to Folder) to manually remove app leftovers. Remember, backup before any major cleaning adventure!

What is the best free Mac cleaner?

You have a number of options when you need a free Mac cleaning software, including Onyx, CCleaner Free for Mac, App Cleaner, and Disk Doctor. You can also use the Storage Optimization feature on macOS. But we think Onyx remains the best free Mac cleaner if you do not want to pay.

How to choose the best cleaner for Mac?

As you can see, these Mac cleaners above can help your Mac in different ways. And all of them allow you to keep your Mac running the best way possible. However, depending on your needs and technical expertise, you may need only one.

For instance, Macpaw CleanMyMac remains the best choice for most people. The comprehensive cleaning app has what it takes to keep your Mac clean and optimized. In addition, you do not have to worry about mechanic tasks thanks to scheduling options.

On the other hand, if you want more system info, you may want to go for Sensei. Other options like Nektony App Cleaner & Uninstaller and MacKeeper are great options if you are specific about the features you need in a cleaning app. For users looking to reclaim disk space without deleting files, newer tools like Hyperspace offer innovative solutions using APFS technology.

* Readers like you help support TheSweetBits. When you buy something through the links in this article, we may get a small commission at no extra charge to you.

<p>The post Best Mac Cleaners in 2025 (Tried & Tested) first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

In this article, we’ll compare iMazing with Apple’s native device management tools, focusing on Apple Watch and iPad management. We’ll explore features, usability, and scenarios where each shines, helping you decide which tool best fits your needs.

TL;DR version:

Apple’s tools are free and well-integrated—but basic.
iMazing offers detailed backups, app control, Watch diagnostics, and more.
Ideal for managing multiple devices, or anyone needing more than Finder can offer.
Apple = Free | iMazing = Paid (starts with a free trial).

Apple’s native tools: the built-in basics

Apple provides a mostly seamless experience when it comes to managing devices through Finder (macOS), iCloud, and the Settings app. Here’s what you get:

For iPad:

• Full device backup via Finder or iCloud.
• Automatic syncing of media, apps, and settings.
• File transfers via Files app or AirDrop.
• Quick OS updates.

For Apple Watch:

• Automatic backups (sort of) via a paired iPhone.
• Watch settings and app data are included in iPhone backups.
• Restore happens when pairing a new Watch.

Limitations:

• No selective app data backup or restore.
• No access to message or WhatsApp archives.
• No clear visibility into Watch data.
• No export options or customization.

What iMazing brings to the table

With iMazing 3.2, the tool steps up its game with extended support for both iPads and the Apple Watch.

For iPad:

• Full and selective backups, including messages, media, and app data.
• WhatsApp, iMessage, and SMS export to PDF, Excel, and more.
• File system access to internal storage (no jailbreak needed).
• App library management and transfer.
• ProRAW and media management tools.

For Apple Watch (new in iMazing 3.2):

• Basic device overview and identification.
• Inclusion in iPhone backups (with more transparency).
• Ability to identify multiple Watches tied to a device.

Power Features:

• Snapshot backups with restore points.
• Encrypted backups with AES-256.
• Custom backup scheduling.
• Business support (MDM prep, supervision, and more).

Apple Watch support in iMazing 3.2 is still developing, but it already offers more visibility and control than Apple’s native, closed-off approach. Read our full iMazing review.

Side-by-side feature comparison

Feature	Apple Native Tools	iMazing 3.2
Full iPad backup	Yes	Yes
Selective backup & restore	No	Yes
Apple Watch manual backup	No	Basic support
Export messages/WhatsApp	No	Yes
iPad file system access	No	Yes
Manage & delete apps	No	Yes
Business/IT support (Supervision)	No	Yes

When to choose Apple’s native tools

Use Apple’s native tools if:

• You prefer free, built-in solutions with tight ecosystem integration.
• Your device management needs are basic — backups, app installs, and settings management.
• You’re a casual user without the need for detailed diagnostics.

When iMazing is worth it

While Apple’s native tools work well for casual users, iMazing shines in more advanced or professional use cases:

• You manage multiple iPads or Watches.
• You need detailed data exports (WhatsApp, Messages).
• You want more backup control (when, what, and where).
• You deal with ProRAW photos, audio, or enterprise apps.
• You need a clear, visual interface for your Apple Watch setup.

It’s perfect for:

• Freelancers and professionals
• IT departments and schools
• Backup-conscious users
• Anyone tired of Finder and iCloud limitations

Pricing breakdown

Apple Native Tools:

• Free with iOS/macOS.

iMazing:

• Starts at $39.99 one-time for 1 device.
• Business and multi-device licenses available.
• Includes a free trial, and upgrades from prior versions are 50% off.

Final thoughts

Both Apple’s native tools and iMazing have their place in Apple device management. Native tools are perfect for everyday users seeking simplicity and cost-free solutions. However, iMazing’s rich feature set, especially with its latest 3.2 update, offers unmatched control and diagnostics for Apple Watch and iPad management.

If you’re looking for deeper insights, better app management, or need to manage multiple devices professionally, iMazing is worth exploring. Try its free trial to see firsthand how it can enhance your Apple device management experience.

Related reads:

• iMazing vs AnyTrans: Which iOS Manager Wins?
• Best iPhone Backup Software for Mac & PC
• Is iMazing Safe? Everything You Need to Know

<p>The post iMazing vs. Apple’s Built-in Tools: What’s Better for iPad & Apple Watch Management? first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

We tested both apps on macOS (Sequoia) using a OnePlus 13R to see which offers a smoother, more effective experience. Here’s our take.

At a glance

Feature	PhoneRescue for Android	Dr.Fone (Android)
Platform	macOS, Windows	macOS, Windows
Scanning Modes	Quick Scan, Deep Scan (requires root)	Standard, WhatsApp Recovery, Google Drive (coming soon)
Rooting Support	Built-in root feature	No built-in rooting
Restore to Device	Yes	No (manual transfer needed)
Extra Features	Rooting, Direct Restore	Backup, Screen Mirroring, Device Management
Preview before Recovery
Price	From $45.99/year	From $59.99/year
Free Trial Limitation	Scan and preview	Scan and preview

PhoneRescue & Dr.Fone are similar

PhoneRescue by iMobie is a specialized data recovery tool for Android devices. It helps you recover files, data, and media that you lost or accidentally deleted from your smartphone. It claims to be a very intuitive tool that does not require technical expertise from the user. Instead, you can follow a simple routine, which involves plugging in your smartphone, running PhoneRescue, and choosing what to restore.

Dr.Fone – Data Recovery (Android) is similar to PhoneRescue as it enables quick and easy data recovery from your Android smartphone. This tool doesn’t require any technical skills, yet it provides more choices for you to select from. You can use Dr.Fone Data Recovery to recover a variety of content, such as contacts, SMS, photos, videos, call logs, audio, etc.

PhoneRescue is straightforward to learn and use

One aspect we loved about PhoneRescue by iMobie is its user-friendly interface and navigation features. It’s so easy to use that you can finish the data recovery process in just a few minutes.

As we mentioned, the app’s routine also adds value. You can connect your Android smartphone to your Mac via USB and open the PhoneRescue app. During the setup, PhoneRescue will install the Android app via USB Debugging.

The app lets you choose between Quick Scan and Deep Scan, which offer standard and advanced scanning options, respectively. The Deep Scan requires root access, and PhoneRescue can help you with that. All things you do with PhoneRescue, from scanning to previewing files, are pretty straightforward.

Compared to Dr.Fone Data Recovery, PhoneRescue is a more straightforward option.

PhoneRescue enables direct media restoration

Another impressive thing about PhoneRescue is that you can restore the media directly to your smartphone. So there is no need to transfer all the recovered data to the device using another program.

Moreover, you can save a lot of time by automating the entire process. It also means you don’t have to deal with multiple file types like contacts or messages. Instead, everything will be restored to the respective applications, making it easy to access them thereafter.

So, if you want an intuitive way to regain access to files, documents, and data that you lost or deleted, you may want to choose PhoneRescue over Dr.Fone.

Dr.Fone offers more recovery options

While PhoneRescue wins on simplicity, Dr.Fone counters with broader capabilities — especially if you want more control over what you recover and how you manage your Android device.

We should also mention that Dr.Fone works as a comprehensive device manager for both Android and iOS devices. So, it is a great way to make sure that you have the device under control for things like backup and screen mirroring.

Dr.Fone Data Recovery for Android offers three data recovery options: Generic Recovery and WhatsApp Data Recovery. The developer is working on an option to recover data from Google Drive. We tried both the available options, and the performance was impressive, indeed.

You might appreciate these additional options compared to those of PhoneRescue.

Dr.Fone integrates device management options

With Dr.Fone, you also get a neat set of device management features. You can count on these features for things like phone transfer and data eraser. Our experience with the phone transfer utility was impressive, as it let us transfer the entire system from an iPhone to Android and vice versa.

The dedicated WhatsApp Transfer function is also a sweet touch. It feels nice to have control over what you can move while transferring WhatsApp between devices. The data eraser function lets you shred data from your device so that it cannot be recovered by tools like Dr.Fone and PhoneRescue.

While not comparable to the iOS Toolkit from Dr.Fone, the added features of Dr.Fone add value for most people. You can count on these tools to better manage files on your Android smartphone.

PhoneRescue helps you root for deep recovery

Sometimes, standard access to an Android smartphone cannot help you recover all recoverable files. In such cases, you may need root access to the device storage directories. However, if you are new to the Android scene, you may not know how to deal with this process. Fortunately, PhoneRescue can help you with this.

We were able to root our Android smartphone without leaving the app. It allowed us to use the Deep Scan mode, which is better than Quick Scan. In our testing, Deep Scan was able to pick up many recoverable files that were not found with Quick Scan.

Sure, rooting your smartphone comes with its set of advantages and drawbacks. But when you are neck deep and want to recover something that you lost or accidentally deleted, you get better chances through rooting the device.

Both deliver impressive data recovery rates

Compared to many data recovery software programs we had used, both PhoneRescue and Dr.Fone offer impressive success rates. We were able to recover most of the files that had been deleted or lost from the device, and the scanning option from PhoneRescue was now visible on the computer.

It’s impressive that the tool retrieves most of the data without requiring a complex setup and installation process. Thanks to the preview option, you don’t waste resources or time recovering data you don’t actually need, either.

In our testing, we checked for both accidentally and deliberately deleted files. However, device compatibility was an issue while attempting data recovery from unresponsive devices.

Both offer incredible value

After reviewing their major features and analyzing the overall performance, we believe PhoneRescue and Dr.Fone offer incredible value. We tested both tools for data recovery, and the results were decent; all their additional features are the icing on the cake.

As for the pricing, you can get PhoneRescue for $45.99 per year or through a lifetime purchase of $59.99. In the same way, you can get Dr.Fone Data Recovery (Android) for $59.99 per year or get a perpetual license for $69.95.

Affordability is not the only argument for value, though. We found it great that both programs allowed us to scan our Android device entirely and preview the files. So, you don’t have to pay for these tools unless you know that PhoneRescue or Dr.Fone can actually recover the files.

Both tools have a money-back guarantee as well. So, in the event these tools don’t help you recover content, you can get a full refund.

Final verdict: which one should you choose?

Choose PhoneRescue if you want:

• A simple, beginner-friendly interface
• Built-in rooting and deep scan
• Direct restore to the device
• More affordable pricing

Choose Dr.Fone if you want:

• A broader toolkit (data shredding, transfer, etc.)
• Recovery options for WhatsApp and Google Drive
• Better for long-term Android/iOS device management

Both tools performed impressively in our tests. If you value ease and speed, PhoneRescue is a sweet option. But if you need a more feature-rich toolkit and plan to manage multiple devices over time, Dr.Fone is worth the extra investment.

<p>The post PhoneRescue vs. Dr.Fone: Two Hassle-Free Android Data Recovery Tools, Compared first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

Two giants dominate this space: Google Calendar and Outlook Calendar. Both are powerful, both are popular — but they serve different types of users and workflows. And as someone who has spent time living in both ecosystems (shoutout to my days switching between Gmail and Microsoft 365 accounts), I know firsthand that neither system gets everything right.

That’s where Reclaim.ai enters the picture — not as a replacement, but as a smart assistant that sits on top of your existing calendar and transforms it into a productivity engine.

Let’s explore how Google and Outlook stack up — and how Reclaim.ai beautifully bridges the gap.

Google Calendar: simple, clean, and great for personal productivity

Google Calendar is the go-to for freelancers, small teams, and just about anyone deep in the Google ecosystem. It’s lightweight, fast, and integrates seamlessly with Gmail, Google Meet, Tasks, and beyond.

Strengths:

• Clean and intuitive UI
• Easy to share and manage multiple calendars
• Great for personal appointments, tasks, and quick scheduling
• Integrates with tons of third-party apps

Where It Falls Short:

• Manual time blocking becomes a chore
• Doesn’t automatically prioritize or defend time for focus work
• No built-in AI or optimization — it’s smart, but not intelligent

If your workday is flexible and you like tweaking things manually, Google Calendar is a dream. But when things get messy (and they will), you’ll wish for more automation.

Outlook Calendar: built for business, sometimes at a cost

Outlook Calendar is the corporate default. Most enterprise teams and organizations running on Microsoft 365 rely on it daily. It’s tightly integrated with Microsoft Teams, OneDrive, and the broader Office suite — making it a solid choice for business users.

Strengths:

• Enterprise-ready with powerful admin controls
• Excellent for scheduling meetings across departments
• Strong Microsoft Teams integration
• Feature-rich for corporate workflows

Where It Falls Short:

UI/UX can feel dated or overly complex

• Less intuitive for personal or task-based time blocking
• Lacks native AI capabilities for proactive scheduling

Outlook is a powerhouse — but often feels like a tool you work for, rather than a tool that works for you.

The productivity gap: what both calendars are missing

Here’s the thing: both platforms are great at keeping track of events. But neither is great at protecting time to actually get work done.

In the age of notifications, Slack pings, and constant meetings, it’s not enough to have a calendar — you need a calendar that defends your time.

That’s exactly the gap Reclaim.ai fills.

Reclaim.ai: the smart layer your calendar’s been missing

I started using Reclaim.ai a few months ago, and honestly, it changed how I manage my week. Instead of manually dragging blocks of “Focus Time” across my week, Reclaim takes care of that for me — intelligently.

Here’s what stands out:

• Focus Time: Set a weekly goal (say 10 hours of deep work), and Reclaim automatically blocks time around your existing meetings. No micro-managing.
  
• Smart Scheduling: It prioritizes tasks, habits, and events so you’re never overwhelmed or overbooked.
• Now with Outlook Support: This is big. Reclaim originally only worked with Google Calendar, but as of now, it officially supports Outlook Calendar too. That opens the door to millions of new users who rely on Microsoft 365.
  

Why Outlook support changes everything

Let’s be real — Outlook dominates the business world. Adding Outlook support doesn’t just widen Reclaim’s reach — it amplifies its potential.

Fun fact from Reclaim: Business/work users (often on Outlook) convert to paid Reclaim plans at 6x the rate of personal users.

Now, whether your team uses Outlook or you personally prefer Google Calendar, Reclaim.ai lets you unify and optimize your schedule — no switching required.

Who Reclaim.ai is perfect for

• Busy professionals juggling meetings, tasks, and heads-down work
• Remote teams who want to create a healthy, focused work culture
• Hybrid workers bouncing between Google and Outlook environments
• Managers who want to help their teams protect focus time at scale

You can even set up Team Focus Time if you’re managing a group — here’s a great guide on that: How to set up Team Focus Time

Final thoughts: calendars are evolving

Google and Outlook have been reliable workhorses for years. But with the rise of AI productivity tools, we’re entering a new era where your calendar does more than remind you — it works with you.

Reclaim.ai is a prime example of this shift. It’s not trying to replace the tools you already use — it’s making them smarter.

So whether you’re a Gmail loyalist or an Outlook diehard, Reclaim offers the AI scheduling superpowers your calendar’s been missing.

Ready to reclaim your time?

Try Reclaim.ai for yourself — and finally give your calendar the upgrade it deserves.

<p>The post Google Calendar vs. Outlook for Productivity — And How Reclaim.ai Bridges the Gap first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

While companies like Microsoft have gone all-in with GitHub Copilot and OpenAI integrations, Apple has taken a quieter, more calculated step. According to multiple reports, Apple is now internally using Claude AI, developed by Anthropic, to power a new wave of AI-assisted development tools.

So what exactly is Apple doing with Claude, and why should developers (especially those in the Apple ecosystem) care? Let’s dive in.

Apple’s AI journey: from Swift Assist to Claude Sonnet

Apple’s previous AI coding tool, Swift Assist, was intended to bring AI-powered assistance directly into Xcode but struggled with technical limitations and has yet to see a public release despite early announcements.

Recognizing these shortcomings, Apple has pivoted to Anthropic’s Claude Sonnet, a model known for its cautious, steerable, and privacy-conscious design-qualities that align closely with Apple’s core values.

This partnership signals a broader evolution in Apple’s AI strategy: moving from siloed, internal projects to embracing external expertise to keep pace with rapid advancements in generative AI.

Internally, Apple is rolling out an updated version of Xcode integrated with Claude Sonnet to help engineers write, debug, and test code more efficiently, a process sometimes referred to as “vibe-coding” – an AI-assisted methodology that accelerates the entire development lifecycle.

Why Claude and not OpenAI or Google?

Apple’s partnership with Anthropic—and not OpenAI or Google—shouldn’t come as a surprise. Apple’s long-standing focus on privacy, on-device intelligence, and curated user experiences likely made Claude a better fit.

Anthropic’s Claude AI is known for being safe, steerable, and reliable in complex language tasks. Unlike models that aim to dazzle with raw creativity or open-ended responses, Claude is more cautious and controlled—traits Apple likely finds appealing for mission-critical developer tools.

This move also signals Apple’s intent to control its own AI ecosystem without tying itself to external giants like Microsoft or Google.

What this means for developers and the Apple ecosystem

If Apple decides to release this Claude-powered assistant publicly, it could transform how developers build apps on macOS and iOS. Key potential features include:

• AI-assisted coding in Xcode: Contextual code suggestions tailored to Swift, SwiftUI, Combine, and Apple-specific frameworks.
• Natural language to code: Developers describe functionality in plain English, and Claude translates it into Swift or Objective-C.
• Faster prototyping: Rapid generation of UI layouts, data models, and app logic, significantly reducing development time.
• Error fixing and documentation: AI that not only identifies bugs but explains fixes in clear, understandable language.

This is particularly exciting for indie developers and beginners, who often face a steep learning curve in Apple’s development ecosystem. Imagine generating a rough prototype of your app’s UI in minutes or receiving inline feedback on your Swift code as you write.

Claude could serve as a 24/7 coding companion, well-versed in Apple’s APIs and best practices, making Swift development more accessible to a broader range of developers.

The bigger picture: Apple’s AI playbook

The Claude partnership appears to be just the beginning of a broader, quietly planned AI push at Apple, potentially to be unveiled in more detail at WWDC 2025.

Beyond Xcode, Apple could expand Claude’s capabilities to:

• Swift Playgrounds: Helping younger or newer developers get started.
• Shortcuts and automation: AI-generated workflows and app integrations.
• Terminal and scripting tools: For power users seeking AI-enhanced command-line assistance.

Apple’s goal is not to make noise but to make AI feel native, useful, and safe across its platforms.

Why it matters

Apple’s Claude-powered developer tooling isn’t just a technical upgrade—it’s a signal of where app development on Apple platforms is headed.

• For developers, it signals a shift toward smarter workflows, AI-enhanced debugging, and potentially faster iteration cycles—all while staying within Apple’s trusted ecosystem.
• For Apple, it strengthens the ecosystem without compromising its values of privacy and control.
• For users, it could translate into more frequent app updates, more polished UI/UX, and a wave of new apps created by a more empowered developer base.

It also marks a cultural shift. Apple, traditionally reserved when it comes to adopting third-party technologies, is now actively embracing generative AI—but doing so on its own terms.

Final thought: AI is the assistant, not the star

Claude’s integration into Apple’s development toolkit could mark the start of a new era—one where writing AI apps for macOS and iOS is faster, more intuitive, and just a bit less intimidating.

But what sets Apple apart is its philosophy: AI is the assistant, not the star.

Rather than replacing developers or overwhelming them with flashy AI features, Apple seems intent on offering something more thoughtful—an intelligent, unobtrusive helper that enhances creativity and productivity without getting in the way.

And that’s exactly the kind of AI we want building the future of the Mac.

<p>The post Apple x Claude AI: What This Means for the Future of App Development on macOS first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

That’s where dedicated PDF editors for Mac come in. We tested over 20 options—from lightweight free tools to professional-grade suites—to help you find the perfect fit, no matter your budget or needs.

Quick summary

• PDFelement – Best Overall
• PDFgear – Best Free
• EaseUS PDF Editor – Most Versatile Toolkit
• PDF Expert – Best Apple Experience
• Nitro PDF – Best for Business
• ABBYY FineReader PDF – Best for OCR
• Foxit – Best for Official Docs

Best Mac PDF editing software in 2025

We tested more than 20 PDF editors on an M2 MacBook Air running macOS Sequoia. Our goal? To find tools that balance usability, editing power, and value. We prioritized intuitive UI, robust text/image/media editing, OCR, AI capabilities, and price fairness. The result: 7 top picks that work across a variety of needs and budgets.

#1 PDFelement: Best Overall PDF Editor with AI

After testing over 20 PDF editors in the market, PDFelement turned out to be the best overall PDF editor for Mac. Thanks to the latest updates, PDFelement lets you do almost everything you want with a PDF. Similar to other tools on this list, PDFelement packs some excellent AI features as well.

Our Testing

We really liked the UI design, which keeps everything accessible through Tabs. For instance, you can use the Organize tab to add/remove/edit pages on a PDF document. Similarly, the Tools tab has a number of utilities like OCR, Compare, Compress, Merge, etc. The Form and Security functions from PDFelement are also great.

The editing experience is robust and comprehensive. You get the standard options to add, remove, edit, or replace a variety of content, including text and images. PDFelement lets you add audio/video elements to the PDF document, too. Some extra features include background removal and Header/Footer management.

The PDF editor allows you to convert PDF documents into a wider variety of other formats, including HTML and EPUB. The app has made all these functionalities available in Batch mode as well. For instance, you can convert, OCR, compress, watermark, encrypt, add background, and translate PDF documents in bulk.

AI Features

PDFelement packs a well-designed and optimized AI assistant as well. We could use it to chat with the PDF document, translate on-page content, check for grammar errors, and detect AI-generated content in a file. It is convenient to use all these features without converting the PDF document into another format.

Pricing

PDFelement for Mac offers a limited free version and a 7-day free trial for the Premium version. If you want the complete feature set, you can get a subscription that costs $79.99 per year or 129.99 for a one-time purchase. Both options give you 100GB of cloud storage space. You have to pay another $39.99/year for the AI features, though.

Pros

• User-friendly interface with clean design
• Comprehensive PDF editing tools for text, image, and media
• Supports batch processing for efficiency
• A fully-fledged AI assistant for summary and more
• It packs form creation and digital signatures

Cons

• Advanced features require a paid subscription
• Can be resource-intensive on older systems
• Limited cloud integration compared to some competitors

Overall, PDFelement caters to almost every PDF-related requirement. From simple file conversion to super-secure digital signature, the document management features of the tool are impressive, indeed. Considering how much you pay, PDFelement offers a lot of value.

#2 PDFgear: Best Free PDF Editor for Mac

We don’t always find free tools that work as well as paid/freemium ones. PDFgear is an exception in that the app does better than many paid PDF editors we’ve come across. PDFgear for Mac might as well be the best free PDF suite you can use for reading, annotating, editing, and interacting with PDF documents.

Our Testing

Compared to other tools on this list, PDFgear has a not-so-modern UI design. It isn’t really tricky to navigate, but we’d appreciate an overhaul sometime soon. Spread across eight tabs, several dozen features are added to the app, making it a comprehensive tool for managing PDF documents.

PDFgear checked all the boxes when it comes to editing and annotation. You can pick the appropriate tool, select the content, and edit the document however you want. You get a separate tab to manage all pages as well. We also loved the form-filling capabilities, especially the Preview option.

Other tools on PDFgear include Splitter, Merger, and OCR. While OCR is not the best, you get to extract text from local files and screenshots. We tried using PDFgear to extract text from some archival texts, and the experience was smooth. In the Protect tab, you get options for Password and Redaction.

AI Features

PDFgear has added AI features to the latest version. As of now, the PDF editor allows you to chat with your document. You can ask the AI to summarize the PDF, create a slide, or take other actions like compressing the document. Surprisingly, the free version offers 50 messages per file per day.

Pricing

PDFgear is entirely free to use, and you can download all versions from the official site. PDFgear is available for Windows, iOS, and Android in addition to macOS. You can also access these features through its website.  

Pros

• Completely free with no hidden charges or watermarks
• User-friendly interface ideal for quick edits
• Built-in AI assistant for summarizing and chatting with PDFs
• Supports PDF conversion, merging, splitting, and annotation
• Fast performance even with large files

Cons

• Advanced editing features are somewhat limited
• Lacks cloud storage or syncing functionality
• No option for digital signatures or form creation

Sure, PDFgear is not as feature-rich as the other top picks, but it offers a reliable PDF editing experience on a Mac. We cannot forget that this app is free to use and does not bother users with ads or those crappy pop-ups. You even get plenty of AI credits, too.

#3 EaseUS PDF Editor: Versatile PDF Toolkit

EaseUS PDF Editor is a new entry in the world of Mac PDF editors. But it packs so many features that it could very well be the most versatile PDF toolkit on the market. It combines an intuitive UI design, powerful tools, and wider system integration to offer a complete PDF management experience.

Our Testing

While it does not have the most modern-looking UI design, it felt effortless to navigate EaseUS PDF Editor. It lets you either launch a specific tool (say, OCR or bulk editing) from the homepage, or you can open a PDF document. This tool also lets you customize which tools appear on this Quick Access panel.

The PDF editing interface looks quite similar to the one we saw in Wondershare PDFelement. However, this app from EaseUS packs more features under each tab. For instance, you get more customization options for redacting the text and adding digital/existing signatures.

We liked the smoothness of the editing process as well. EaseUS PDF Editor is quick to recognize the objects and show relevant properties on the side pane. The OCR function also offers advanced options for controlling what appears. Some additional features, like Image Extractor, add extra value too.

AI Features

Unfortunately, EaseUS PDF Editor does not pack any AI-powered features. It is likely to be using AI for OCR features, but it does not have an AI Copilot or Assistant feature. So, if you want to summarize the PDF, you may need another tool.

Pricing

You can get EaseUS PDF Editor for Mac through a one-time purchase of $89.99. The purchase offers lifetime upgrades. We also loved that EaseUS offers a 24-hour free trial, during which you can explore all the features of the PDF editor.

Pros

• It packs a broader variety of PDF editing tools.
• An intuitive yet professional UI design
• Exemplary system integration and speed
• Customizable home page with quick access
• Built-in utilities for OCR and image extraction

Cons

• No AI integration
• Lacks cloud-based collaboration
• No free version

Overall, EaseUS PDF Editor delivers on all fronts of PDF editing and management. Though it lacks AI assistants and cloud collaboration features, the entire experience is versatile. The tool’s performance has also been quite reliable.

#4 PDF Expert: Easy PDF Editing with AI

PDF Expert is a popular PDF editor that is available for Mac, iPad, and iPhone. It lets you annotate, edit, scan & OCR, and export PDF documents efficiently. This comprehensive PDF editor is the best choice when you need a user-friendly PDF editing experience across macOS, iOS, and iPadOS.

The Smart Scan feature from the OCR module is also a great option for selecting text from a scanned image. You can count on the AI features of PDF Expert when it comes to summarizing or chatting with PDFs. In the end, it delivers quite a lot for the price you pay.

Pros

• Syncs across Mac, iPhone, and iPad
• Comprehensive editing and annotation tools
• User-friendly, intuitive interface
• Fast performance and affordable pricing

Cons

• Only available on Apple devices
• Must pay for new features if using a lifetime license

PDF Expert for Mac is available for $79.99 per year or $139.99 for the Lifetime license. However, the Lifetime license does not offer AI features, which is a bummer.

#5 Nitro PDF Pro: Best PDF Editor for Business

If you use PDF documents extensively for business purposes, you should check out Nitro PDF Pro. This super-advanced PDF editor offers one of the broadest feature sets we have seen. The form and security tools make it easy to deal with a variety of business documents.

Because Nitro PDF Pro is an enterprise-focused software, you get additional features like integration with DMS and user-intuitive OCR options. You can also choose between a variety of subscription plans that fit your needs. Its integration with tools like Google Drive and other cloud services adds value as well.

Pros

• Massive feature set for editing, conversion, and security
• Excellent annotation and form tools
• Integrates with Microsoft 365, Google Drive, and other cloud services
• Strong security and document protection features

Cons

• Expensive compared to competitors
• Can be slow with large or multiple PDFs

Nitro PDF Pro costs a whopping $275 per license, which is out there. However, you can use a single license to access Nitro PDF Pro on multiple platforms.

#6 ABBY FineReader PDF: Best for OCR on PDF

You must check out ABBY FineReader PDF if you need a PDF editor that can handle OCR and scans well. It uses one of the best AI-powered algorithms for OCR technology, offering the best results. You’d notice this extra optimization while scanning complex archival documents.

Even when we keep the OCR module aside, ABBY FineReader is an excellent PDF editor. It does a great job of converting PDF documents to different formats and vice versa. We must add that ABBY FineReader PDF takes a toll on system resources, especially while running the OCR module.

Pros

• Industry-leading OCR accuracy
• Powerful PDF editing and conversion features
• Exports to many formats and supports multiple languages
• Perpetual license available, no subscription required

Cons

• Lacks full-text multi-file indexing for fast search
• Learning curve can be steep for new users

You can get ABBY FineReader PDF for Mac by paying $69 per year, with some additional discounts if you go for a three-year plan.

#7 Foxit PDF Editor: Best for Official Documents

You may want to check out Foxit PDF Editor if you spend more time dealing with official PDF documents. For starters, it provides all the editing features you need, from combining pages to content extraction. It takes on the likes of Adobe Acrobat, offering state-of-the-art security and collaboration tools as well.

We also love that Foxit PDF Editor packs some intuitive AI features, allowing you to interact with all your PDF documents. Its strong features for OCR, digital signature, and document tracking are great, and offer a lot of room for customization.

Pros

• Full-featured editing, collaboration, and security tools
• Fast performance and lightweight compared to Adobe
• Strong OCR and export options
• Robust digital signature and document tracking features

Cons

• The interface can be cluttered and hard to navigate
• Some features are repetitive or hidden in menus

Foxit Editor for Individuals costs $110.04/year, but you can explore other packages as well. All the tools from the Foxit PDF Editor suite are available as part of the 7-day free trial.

Best PDF editors for Mac compared

Tool	Platform	AI Features	OCR	Batch Edit	Free Version	Best For
PDFelement	macOS, iOS				(Limited)	Overall editor
PDFgear	macOS					Free PDF tasks
EaseUS	macOS					Versatile editing
PDF Expert	Apple only					Apple ecosystem
Nitro	Cross-platform					Business use
ABBYY	macOS		(Advanced)			OCR-focused use
Foxit	Cross-platform					Office/enterprise

FAQs

What is the best free PDF editor for Mac?

PDFgear is the best free PDF editor for Mac we’ve tested. It offers an impressive suite of features—including editing, annotation, page management, OCR, and AI-powered summarization—all without watermarks or upsells. It’s ideal for casual users or students who want full control over PDFs without paying a dime.

Which PDF editor supports batch processing?

PDFelement, EaseUS PDF Editor, and ABBYY FineReader PDF all support batch processing. This allows users to convert, compress, watermark, OCR, or encrypt multiple PDFs at once—saving hours for professionals dealing with bulk documents.

Is Adobe Acrobat the only professional PDF tool?

Not at all. While Adobe Acrobat Pro DC remains a gold standard, several alternatives like PDFelement and Foxit PDF Editor offer comparable professional features—often at a lower cost. These tools provide advanced editing, form handling, digital signatures, collaboration, and strong security.

Which PDF editor has the best AI features?

PDFelement stands out for AI capabilities. It allows you to chat with your document, summarize content, translate text, and even detect AI-generated content. PDFgear also offers AI-assisted summarization in its free version, which is impressive for a no-cost tool.

What‘s the best PDF editor for Apple Silicon Macs?

Most modern PDF editors now run natively on M1, M2, and M3 chips. PDF Expert, PDFelement, and EaseUS PDF Editor are optimized for Apple Silicon, offering snappy performance and energy efficiency. PDF Expert is especially well-integrated across macOS, iOS, and iPadOS.

Can I fill out and sign PDF forms with these editors?

Yes, most editors on our list—including PDF Expert, PDFelement, and Foxit PDF Editor—support form filling and digital signatures. Some even let you create fillable forms from scratch and offer drag-and-drop field editing.

Do free PDF editors leave a watermark?

Many do—but PDFgear and the trial version of PDFelement do not leave watermarks for basic functions. However, advanced features (like OCR or exporting) may prompt upgrade notices in free tiers.

Wrapping up

So, these are the best Mac PDF editors you can find today. We have tried to suggest PDF editors that work well for particular needs. We hope it helps you choose the right one.

If you are looking for advanced PDF editing features and a powerful AI, you should stick to PDFelement from Wondershare. But if you can compromise on the UI and features, PDFgear is a sweet, free option.

On the other hand, if you want more features and impressive integration, the new player, EaseUS PDF Editor, is a great choice.

<p>The post Best PDF Editors for Mac: 2025 Buyer’s Guide first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>