Burnbytes is an open-source disk-cleaning utility for Windows 10 and 11, designed as a modern standalone clone of Microsoft’s classic Disk Cleanup (cleanmgr.exe). Whether it is worth your time depends entirely on how much you dislike Windows Storage Sense and how much you miss the classic, straightforward nature of the original utility. What is Burnbytes?
Developed by independent developer Builtbybel (Mirinsoft), Burnbytes was created as a direct community response to Microsoft deprecating the legacy Disk Cleanup tool in favour of the modern Settings-based Storage Sense. The tool takes the underlying logic of the classic system cleaner and wraps it in a streamlined interface that mimics modern Windows aesthetics.
You can review the source code directly on the Burnbytes GitHub Repository or install it via the official Microsoft Store App Page. Key Features & Pros
Familiar Functionality: It handles exactly what the classic Windows utility did, safely deleting temporary internet files, system logs, error reports, and previous installations.
No Bloatware: Unlike commercial cleaning software that often bombards users with ads, background processes, or subscriptions, Burnbytes is completely free, open-source, and lightweight.
Cleanmgr+ Integration: Tech reviewers at GHacks Technology News highlight that it can be bundled with Cleanmgr+, allowing users to toggle between a basic clone mode and an advanced tab for deep-cleaning third-party app caches. The Downsides
Functional Redundancy: It does not actually uncover more space than the built-in Windows tools. It simply re-packages the native commands.
Low Maintenance: Because it was built as a passion project “just for fun,” it does not receive frequent feature updates. The Verdict: Is It Worth Your Time?
Yes, if: You are a power user who hates navigating the nested menus of modern Windows Settings to clean your drive, and you prefer a dedicated, single-purpose application with a modern UI.
No, if: You are perfectly content using the native Windows Storage Sense or running standard command-line scripts to clean out system clutter.
Burnbytes – Free download and install on Windows | Microsoft Store
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