Several times over the years I have mentioned an application that I have used for a long time to remove, or uninstall, applications from your Windows computer. It is called Revo Uninstaller (REVOUninstaller.com). I also suggest that you do not use the built-in uninstaller for Windows, since it is not extremely thorough. I did state the following at one time; “…do not use Windows uninstall feature” and then, “…do use, Revo Uninstaller, Revo is one of the few programs I actually pay for. The free version is great, but I have used it for years and like to support them for about $25/year.” The preceding is true for over five years.
After a lot of soul-searching, well, just testing out another app that does the same thing for free, I have changed my mind.
They are both tools that can be useful when you are trying to clean up your computer. These are both GUIs (Graphical User Interfaces) that help you remove applications and their associated files from your system. However, they go about it in slightly different ways. Again, both are much better than Microsoft’s built-in application removal system. Which leaves unneeded files on your computer and many no longer required registry entries.
I have written about REVO before, so let us look at BCUninstaller now, which unashamedly stands for “Bulk Crap Uninstaller.” To use BCUninstaller, you first need download it from, www.BCUninstaller.com. Either of the first two green download links are fine. As it starts its installation process, I would suggest using the “Standard Installation,” then accept the license agreement. I uncheck, “Extra Languages” but that is your choice. Choose “Next” until completed, then launch BCUninstaller. It takes a little longer to start than REVO, but it is quite systematic in finding installer applications.
Once it opens, it has all the apps listed on your computer. In the left menu, you can search for a specific app, in several different ways. They are sorted alphabetically, so I just look down the list. You can sort by any of the column headings, I find the installation date to be helpful at times. I do check, “Select using check boxes,” which makes it easier to select the correct app to uninstall. Then check the offending application and click, “Uninstall” at the top. There is a choice of “Uninstall quietly” which I have tested but did not notice a significant difference. You may also uninstall multiple apps at the same time; therefore, the meaning of “Bulk” in its name.
Now, a few similarities between the two applications. Both are software uninstallers for Windows, can remove leftover files, and registry entries after uninstallation. Also, they both support batch uninstallation of multiple programs, but I feel that BCU does it slightly better. That is my unscientific opinion only.
Now a few differences, Revo Uninstaller is software with paid and free versions, and is considered to have a more user-friendly interface, which is easier for casual users. It is generally faster and again a bit more intuitive to use.
BCUninstaller is free and open-source software with more advanced features, targeted at power users but anyone can use it. The screen looks a little “intimidating” since it has more colors, but is basically the same. BCU can detect unregistered programs, portable applications, and it supports older Windows versions. The setup can take a little more time but if you check my video at GrayHaired.Tech, you can see the easy way to install it.
For most users, especially those who are comfortable with technology, BCUninstaller is an excellent choice. It is free, powerful, and does an outstanding job of cleaning up your system. If you frequently install and uninstall software or need to clean up multiple computers, BCUninstaller’s bulk uninstall feature can be a real time-saver.
If you are less confident with technology or prefer a more guided experience, Revo Uninstaller’s user-friendly interface might be more your speed. The free version will meet most people’s needs, but power users might appreciate the extra features in the pro version.
Whether you choose BCUninstaller or Revo Uninstaller, you will be taking a step towards a cleaner, more efficient computer. These tools can help breathe new life into an older system or keep your new computer running smoothly. As with any system maintenance, the key is to use these tools regularly and thoughtfully.
