Here is a step-by-step user guide that will help you get started with Duplicate File Finder easily and clear useless duplicate data from your disk.
How to select what to scan
When you launch Duplicate File Finder, you need to select the areas you want to check for copies.
- Drag and drop folders or entire drives into the app window, or click the “+” button.
- Click Find duplicates.
- Wait for the scan to finish (usually 5–20 seconds depending on disk size).
How to remove duplicates (main use case)
- Go to the Duplicate Files tab. Here you can switch between duplicate pictures, movies, music, documents, archives, and other types of duplicates.
- Review the list and select unneeded files.
- Use the Smart Select button to let the app automatically keep one original and mark all copies for removal.
- Click Review to Remove in the bottom right corner.
- Confirm the list and click Remove.
Note:
In some cases, you will not see the checkbox for duplicates, making it impossible to select a separate duplicate file. This happens when the duplicate files are located in duplicate folders. In this case, the application suggests you remove the whole duplicate folder at once.
How to clean up similar photos
Duplicate File Finder also finds photos that are not identical but look very similar (burst shots, slightly different angles).
- Switch to the Similar Photos tab in the left sidebar.
- The app groups similar images together. Compare them using the Preview panel on the right.
- Select the best shot to keep and mark others for removal.
- Click Review to Remove.
- Confirm removal.
Managing duplicate folders
If you have two folders with identical content, it’s faster to delete the whole folder.
- Go to the Duplicate Folders tab.
- The app shows which folders are 100% identical.
- Select the folder you don’t need → Click Remove.
Following these steps will help you quickly declutter your Mac and keep your storage organized. If you encounter any specific issues or have more advanced questions, feel free to explore our Help page or contact our support team for assistance.
