Microsoft provides various built-in tools to help users manage their systems. One such application is Microsoft PC Manager, a software suite with various system optimization and security features. However, many users prefer third-party applications for their added functionality and ease of use.

There are several alternatives to PC Manager that offer similar or better capabilities and are often more customizable. In this article, we'll explore the five best alternatives to Microsoft PC Manager on Windows 10 and help you pick the right one.

1. CCleaner

ccleaner launch view

CCleaner is a powerful software with a simple user interface that distinguishes it from the Microsoft PC Manager. It offers a clean and organized layout with different tabs for different functions, allowing users to easily navigate the software to perform required tasks on their PC.

This software also protects online privacy by cleaning up browsing data, cookies, temporary files, and other internet traces. What’s more, it has several customization options, allowing you to configure the software to your liking.

For instance, you can exclude specific files or folders from being cleaned or even limit the times the software is set to clean your PC. This feature is sorely lacking in Windows PC Manager, giving CCleaner an edge.

Another advantage of CCleaner over Microsoft PC Manager is the advanced tools it offers, such as real-time monitoring, automatic updates, and premium support. However, you can only access these features in the paid version of this software.

Unlike the Microsoft PC manager, CCleaner can restore deleted files. It has a File Recovery option that can help you restore files accidentally deleted during cleaning.

Download: CCleaner (From $24.95/user/ month; free trial available)

2. Advanced SystemCare

Advanced SystemCare launch view

Advanced SystemCare is another powerful system optimization tool that rivals Microsoft PC Manager’s performance. Its advanced features include a disk cleaner and a registry cleaner which are missing in the Microsoft PC Manager.

Advanced SystemCare is simple and intuitive to use. It provides a simple dashboard that shows your system’s status and offers one-click solutions to many tasks. Moreover, you can customize the software's settings to match your tastes.

The registry cleaner scans your PC and helps you fix errors that can slow down or crash your system. Similarly, the disk cleaner combs your PC for junk files and frees up space to improve system performance.

Furthermore, the system optimizer feature analyzes your system's settings and configurations. It examines your PC’s startup time, network speed, and other system parameters and optimizes them for better performance.

This software also includes several security features that can protect your PC from potential malware attacks. It provides anti-spyware, anti-adware, and a security analyzer that detects and removes security vulnerabilities, giving your PC an extra layer of security.

Advanced SystemCare is a paid software that offers a free limited version. However, its performance and security features may justify the cost if you need a comprehensive system optimization tool that rivals the Microsoft PC Manager.

Download: Advanced SystemCare (Subscription required; free trial available)

3. AVG TuneUp

AVG Tuneup launch view

AVG TuneUp addresses common issues that can slow down your PC. It offers advanced features, such as disk cleanup, registry cleaner, and performance booster, to help keep your PC working at peak performance.

Like the other system managers, this software offers a simple user interface that displays your PC's health and offers one-click solutions for various optimization tasks. Plus, you can easily customize the optimization process to fit your needs.

Disk Cleanup is another great feature of AVG TuneUp that can free up space on your Windows hard drive by removing unwanted files and applications. The software scans your system for temporary internet files and other junk files that take up space. It even removes leftover files and registry entries from uninstalled programs, freeing up even more space.

Unlike Microsoft PC Manager, AVG TuneUp includes a registry cleaner. This tool scans your registry, removes outdated and unwanted entries, and defragments your hard disk to make it run more efficiently.

Another fantastic feature of AVG TuneUp is its Performance Booster, which optimizes your PC's performance by shutting down unnecessary processes and services. It even provides recommendations on how to optimize your system's settings for better performance.

In addition to performance-boosting features, AVG TuneUp provides privacy protection to ensure your sensitive information stays safe. It removes internet traces and other sensitive information by erasing browser history, cookies, and cache.

Plus, it has a shredder that securely deletes files. Given how easy it can be to recover deleted files on Windows, shredding them prevents anyone from accessing your private documents after you got rid of them.

Although AVG TuneUp is paid software, it offers a free trial version that you can use to test its features and see if it meets your needs.

Download: AVG TuneUp (Subscription required; free trial available)

4. Glary Utilities

Glary Utilities launch view

One of the standout features of Glary Utilities is the one-click maintenance, which is unavailable in other PC managers, including Microsoft’s PC Manager. This tool scans and repairs your computer with just one click.

Furthermore, the disk cleaner and registry cleaner free up space on your hard drive by removing temporary files, internet history, and other unnecessary files.

Glary Utilities also offers a privacy protection feature that can help keep your data safe. It can clear your browsing history, cookies, and cache. In addition, you can use it to securely delete files and folders, so unauthorized users cannot recover them, ensuring your privacy is protected.

The software also includes many system tweaks that allow you to customize your computer. You can change settings related to the startup and shutdown process, adjust the appearance of the Windows desktop, and optimize system performance in various ways.

Another advantage of Glary Utilities is that it offers both a free and paid version of its software. The free version includes many useful features, but the paid version offers additional tools like automatic updates and technical support.

Download: Glary Utilities (Free) | Glary Utilities Pro (Subscription required)

5. Ashampoo WinOptimizer

Ashampoo WinOptimizer launch view

Ashampoo WinOptimizer comes with a unique feature called the disk defragmenter, which optimizes and helps recover deleted files on your hard drive. Also, the user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate and use this software.

Another useful feature is the dashboard which displays your PC’s health and suggests optimization tasks, allowing you to customize the optimization process to fit your needs. For example, you can exclude certain files and folders from optimization and adjust power settings.

Additionally, this software offers privacy protection features that can help keep your data safe. It erases browser history, cookies, and cache files, ensuring no one can access your browsing data.

Interestingly, it also provides a game booster, which frees up system resources for a smoother gaming experience. It shuts down processes that are not required while gaming and optimizes Windows for better gaming performance.

Ashampoo WinOptimizer is paid software, which may put some people off. Fortunately, it offers a free trial that you can use to test its features. And it's a one-time purchase with no pesky subscription fees.

Download: Ashampoo WinOptimizer (Free) | Ashampoo WinOptimizer Pro ($39.99)

Optimizing Your PC in the Modern Day

One thing is clear as we end our exploration of the top PC manager alternatives for Windows 10. You don't have to settle for one-size-fits-all software. With so many PC management tools available, you can find several tools that cater to your specific needs and preferences.

Stepping out of the Microsoft PC Manager bubble can be an eye-opening experience. There are numerous alternatives that offer unique features and functions, ranging from comprehensive security suites to one-click maintenance. So, don't be afraid to explore your options and find the best tool for you.