Productivity Tools

7 Best System Cleaners & Optimizers for Mac in 2023 (Free & Paid)

By Alex • Updated Sep 29, 2023

Best for: Overall | Windows | Mac

Maintaining your Mac's performance can be challenging as it ages and accumulates files and programs. Luckily, there are reliable system cleaners and optimizers available to keep your Mac in top shape.

In this guide, we'll introduce the seven best system cleaners and optimizers for Mac in 2023.

Best Mac Optimization Tools

1. CleanMyMac X
2. MacKeeper
3. MacBooster 8
4. OnyX
5. CCleaner
6. MacCleaner Pro
7. Cleaner One Pro

What Makes a Great System Cleaner & Optimizer?

A great system cleaner and optimizer should be user-friendly, comprehensive, and effective.

It should offer a wide variety of tools to clean, optimize, and protect your computer, including the ability to remove junk files, clean up memory, manage startup programs, and protect against malware.

In addition, the best system cleaners and optimizers should have a user-friendly interface and provide clear instructions and information about the processes they perform.

1. CleanMyMac X

CleanMyMac X is a full-featured system optimization app with a selection of powerful cleaning tools. It's designed to help you safely remove unnecessary files from your Mac, optimize its performance, and maintain your privacy.

Key Features:

• Junk file remover
• Large & Old file finder
• Built-in uninstaller
• Memory cleaner
• Option to clean and remove malware
• App uninstaller tool

Our Take: CleanMyMac X offers a comprehensive suite of features that make it easy to maintain your Mac's performance. It's particularly valuable for its ability to identify and remove junk files and old files that take up valuable storage space. While it lacks some security features such as real-time antivirus monitoring or a VPN, its cleaning and optimization tools are top-notch, making it a solid choice for most users.

2. MacKeeper

MacKeeper is an all-in-one system optimization suite that provides a multitude of features for cleaning and speeding up your Mac. MacKeeper is not just about cleaning, it also includes some impressive security tools.

Key Features:

• Real-time antivirus protection
• VPN access
• ID Theft Guard
• Memory cleaner
• Duplicates finder
• Junk cleaner

Our Take: MacKeeper is one of the most comprehensive system optimization suites available, offering a wealth of features for both cleaning and security. Its real-time antivirus monitoring and built-in VPN are standout features not commonly found in other Mac cleaning tools. It also offers a user-friendly interface and provides real help in real-time through its built-in support chat.

3. MacBooster 8

MacBooster 8 is a powerful system optimizer that offers a wide range of features to clean and boost your Mac. It's designed for both regular and professional users, making it accessible for everyone.

Key Features:

• Five different tools for optimizing your Mac
• Protection from cyber threats
• Efficient startup app management

Our Take: MacBooster 8 is a robust system cleaner with a comprehensive set of features. It stands out for its ability to optimize startup apps efficiently, which can significantly improve your Mac's boot time. It also offers robust protection from cyber threats, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize security.

4. OnyX

OnyX is a free, multifunction utility that can perform a variety of maintenance tasks. It's a bit more advanced than other system cleaners, offering powerful features that may appeal to more tech-savvy users.

Key Features:

• Verifies the structure of system files
• Performs miscellaneous maintenance and cleaning tasks
• Configures parameters in various Apple applications
• Deletes caches and rebuilds various databases and indexes

Our Take: OnyX is a powerful, free tool that offers a comprehensive suite of features. While it may be complex for some users, it's extremely useful once you learn how to use it. OnyX is particularly good at removing junk files and validating the structure of system files.

5. CCleaner

CCleaner is a lightweight system cleaning solution that focuses primarily on removing unwanted junk from your Mac. It's simple, effective, and more affordable than many of its competitors.

Key Features:

• Junk removal tool
• Duplicate files finder
• Custom scan
• Automatically empties trash
• Photo analyzer

Our Take: CCleaner is an efficient and affordable system cleaner. While its feature set is not as extensive as some of its competitors, it excels at what it does - removing unwanted files from your system. Its interface might be a bit dated, but its functionality is up to the mark.

6. MacCleaner Pro

MacCleaner Pro is a powerful system optimizer that focuses on resolving storage-related issues. It's known for its intuitive design and ability to find and remove hard-to-find files.

Key Features:

• Boosts performance by freeing up RAM
• Manage startup programs
• Deletes unwanted browser extensions
• Intuitive user interface

Our Take: MacCleaner Pro is one of the most effective system cleaners available. It's particularly valuable for its ability to free up RAM, which can significantly boost your Mac's performance. Plus, its intuitive user interface makes it easy to use, even for beginners.

7. Cleaner One Pro

Description: Cleaner One Pro is a lightweight but powerful system cleaner. It's particularly known for its ability to quickly remove unwanted files and software, making it an efficient and effective choice.

Key Features:

• Junk files remover
• Duplicates finder
• File shredder
• Disk usage analyzer

Our Take: Cleaner One Pro is a surprisingly powerful system cleaner considering its lightweight nature. It offers a comprehensive suite of features, including a duplicates finder and a file shredder, making it a solid choice for those looking for a simple but effective system cleaner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Mac cleaner slow down my Mac?

No, a good Mac cleaner should actually help speed up your Mac by removing unnecessary files and freeing up memory.

Are Mac cleaner apps safe to use?

Yes, as long as you download them from a reliable source and they're made by a reputable developer. It's always a good idea to check reviews and ratings before downloading.

Which is the best Mac cleaner on the market?

The best Mac cleaner depends on your individual needs. Some people might prefer a comprehensive tool like MacKeeper, while others might prefer a simpler, more lightweight option like Cleaner One Pro.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a good system cleaner and optimizer can be a valuable tool to keep your Mac running smoothly and efficiently. By removing unnecessary files, freeing up memory, and offering a range of optimization tools, these apps can help you get the most out of your Mac.

Whether you're looking for a comprehensive suite of tools or a simple, lightweight cleaner, there's an option out there that's perfect for you.

All Mac Optimization Tools