When thinking of upgrading your computer or backing up everything on your system, the easiest way to go about it is by using a disk imaging or cloning tool. Clonezilla is one particular program that can work in such a case.
The program can be helpful when you need to do system deployment, bare metal backup, or recovery. There are three versions of Clonezilla, with each one having unique features. However, each of the three versions helps you carry out the tasks mentioned.
The first instance is Clonezilla Live which is best suited for single machine backups and recovery. The second is the Clonezilla Lite server, best suited for cloning multiple computers. Clonezilla SE is also suitable for imaging or cloning multiple computers.
While Clonezilla is a helpful tool, it also comes with certain shortcomings. For instance, to be successful in cloning, the target disk must be equal to or larger than the original location of the files.
Another downside is that there is no option for online imaging or cloning. You have to unmount the image or clone first before you proceed with the process.
The program also doesn’t allow you to recover a single file. Instead, you have to go through the entire process of imaging or cloning to recover all files at the same time.
The good news is that Clonezilla is not the only imaging or cloning program you can use. Several other alternatives can do an even better job.
Best Clonezilla Alternatives
Below are some of the most impressive and popular Clonezilla alternatives you might want to check out.
1. Macrium Reflect
Macrium Reflect is a disk imaging and cloning software that can get the job done seamlessly. It is developed and distributed by a company called Macrium, which was established back in 2006.
One of the most impressive features of Macrium Reflect is that it has a speedy recovery time thanks to its Rapid Delta technology. That means in case you lose a file or experience some kind of corruption in your system, you can have everything restored within a short time.
Macrium Reflect is available in five distinct versions with the most basic being a free offering. All versions are compatible with Microsoft Windows operating systems.
When creating backups with this particular software, you can use a USB disk, DVD, or a server. Unlike Clonezilla, Macrium also features scheduled backups, which means you won’t have to do everything manually.
Macrium Reflect is a user-friendly alternative that also comes with timely customer support in case you need it.
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2. Redo Rescue
Redo Rescue is an open-source software allowing you to make modifications and share as you wish. The program is developed and distributed by Zebradots Software.
This particular program differs from Clonezilla because it allows you to run selective restoring processes. That means you can restore data to select parts of the partition without having to run a full imaging or cloning exercise.
Another unique feature of this program is that it is accessible remotely. In case you are having difficulties running the program, you can grant permission to your friends or other experts in a remote location who can then assist you.
Redo Rescue is an easy-to-use program because it has a simple, point-and-click interface that makes processes a breeze. With this software, you can either use a CD or USB disk for imaging or cloning systems and to reboot your computer.
3. Acronis Cyber Protect Home Office
Acronis Cyber Protect Home Office is another software alternative to Clonezilla you can use for imaging and cloning your system. The software is developed and distributed by Acronis International GmbH.
The technology company has its corporate headquarters in Switzerland and its international headquarters in Singapore. Acronis Cyber Protect Home Office is unique because it also emphasizes overall security.
In contrast to Clonezilla, the software program comes with an antivirus capable of protecting your files from different types of malware or viruses. It also features an intuitive interface that lets users click through various options.
If you opt for its premium edition, you get 1TB of cloud storage and automatic replication of data in the cloud. The software can clone systems to smaller disks and comes with 24-hour support, making it possible for you to get assistance anytime you need it.
Acronis Cyber Protect Home Office is an ideal alternative for individuals who want to keep their data safe from cyberattacks, system crashes, and malware among other risks.
4. Carbon Copy Cloner
Carbon Copy Cloner is a software that is developed by Bombich Software. It is another excellent option if you wish to copy your entire system through an imaging or cloning process.
However, it slightly differs from Clonezilla because it allows you to select and copy specific files on the original drive. The Carbon Copy Cloner has undergone several updates and each version may have certain distinct features.
A unique aspect of this program is that it incorporates an automatic backup setting. That means files can be backed up hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly. You can also customize your automatic backups to something you find more suitable.
Carbon Copy Cloner’s user interface is also simple enough for just about anyone to understand. The home page allows you to keep track of all the activities that are taking place during backups or restorations.
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5. PartedMagic
If you are looking for something that helps make disk partitioning easy, PartedMagic may just be the ideal pick. It comes with software that allows you to create multiple partitions for system deployment.
This program also allows you to clone a computer’s entire disk or a specific partition depending on your preference. The program is slightly different from Clonezilla because it also features a tool for erasing specific partitions.
When using this software, you can reset or change Windows passwords in case you have forgotten them or someone hacked your system. What’s more, you can recover files you may have mistakenly deleted or rescue those on disks with read-only errors.
It is worth pointing out that you don’t have to install this program on your device to use its features. Instead, it is a standalone Linux operating system that runs on a CD or USB disk drive.
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6. AOMEI Backupper
AOMEI Backupper is another software you can use to carry out system imaging or cloning. The software is developed by AOMEI, a company that was established in 2010.
This program is compatible with all Windows versions, making it an ideal pick for just about anyone with Windows OS. With this software, you can create a bootable disk for bare metal or unbootable computer backup.
Another impressive feature of this program is that it allows you to backup files to a USB, NAS device, or in the cloud. The software stands apart from Clonezilla because it features automatic backup scheduling.
You can choose to run full or incremental backups as a way of simplifying the entire process. There is also the AOMEI MBackupper tool that lets you backup files from your iPhone device.
AOMEI Backupper is an excellent program to use on your home computer or business network. It not only guards against important data loss but also makes it quite convenient for you to upgrade your devices.
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7. FOG Project
FOG Project is a free open-source computer cloning software you can modify and share at will. It is unique because of its compatibility with multiple computer systems including Mac OSX, Windows, and Linux distributions.
Another stunning feature of this particular program is that it allows for remote access. That means you can use it from anywhere in the world. And if you run into trouble while trying to use it, you can always ask for help from an online community of over 30,000 users.
The program comes with an automatic task scheduling setting allowing you to automate many processes. You can even run memory and disk tests to identify errors.
Additionally, users have an opportunity to run AV scans and wipe disks conveniently. FOG Project also has a simple user interface that allows you to quickly go through various sections and click what you would like to do.
The home screen lets you view various aspects of the system and the tasks that are currently ongoing. While the software is completely free to download and use, you can always donate toward keeping the project going on the official website.
8. EaseUS Todo Backup
EaseUS Todo Backup is another Clonezilla alternative you can opt for if you want to create a clone for your system. The program is developed and distributed by EaseUS, an international software company that was established in 2004.
Unlike Clonezilla, EaseUS Todo Backup lets you do more than just imaging and cloning. With this program, you can delete, merge, split, and compress files to save space on your disks.
The program allows you to set up a scheduled backup plan. This can run in hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly intervals depending on what you desire. The software lets you save backups on local drives, NAS, network, or in the cloud.
It is also important to note that you can backup files to a system with dissimilar hardware. You can even restore your system from a physical computer to a virtual alternative.
EaseUS Todo Backup comes in three editions. The first edition is free but you’ll have to pay a fee to unlock its Home and Enterprise editions.
Of course, the paid versions offer more features and give you access to prime technical support, smart backup, and universal restore.
9. MiniTool ShadowMaker
MiniTool ShadowMaker is a cloning and imaging software available for free download and use. The program is developed and distributed by MiniTool Software Limited, a company that specializes in software solutions.
MiniTool ShadowMaker is regarded as faster than Clonezilla as it tends to back up files and folders quickly. It can also back up systems, hard drives, and partitions so that you never have to worry about losing your data.
The program comes with an automatic file syncing feature that enables you to store important data in two different locations. That means even when one location is damaged or corrupted by malware, you can still retrieve your data without breaking a sweat.
If you are having trouble with your local disk, you can use the free disk clone feature to upgrade your hard drive without the danger of losing any data. Note that in most cases, a solution as simple as cloning your hard drive can be all it takes to get rid of computer problems that may have seemed insurmountable.
If you want to add an extra layer of security to your files, you can go ahead and do so through the encryption setting. Anyone that wishes to access encrypted files must have an authentic password.
Another unique feature of this program is that you can add it to the boot menu. That makes it possible for you to restore your Windows system without a bootable USB drive or CD/DVD.
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10. Paragon Backup & Recovery
Paragon Backup & Recovery is another software that can offer excellent imaging and cloning features. The software is developed and distributed by Paragon Technology GmbH.
Unlike Clonezilla, this particular software allows you to select a partition of the disk you wish to clone or backup. Of course, you can also go ahead and carry out an imaging or cloning process on the entire disk if that is what you want to do.
Another cool feature about this program is that it can automate backups. That means you don’t have to spend long hours on your device just to backup everything manually.
You can set automatic backup schedules according to parameters specified on the program or go ahead and create your custom schedules. This program also gives you the flexibility to delete old backup images that you no longer need.
By deleting such data, you easily create more room on your local disks. The program lets you create an image or clone on a USB stick and use it to recover your system in case of damage.
The good news is that recovery includes your operating system, user settings, installed programs, and any other saved data. It is as if you never lost anything.
Paragon Backup & Recovery incorporates a simple user interface making it easy for anyone to use. It is available in a free and a commercial version that includes more advanced features.
11. SuperDuper
SuperDuper is the next disk copying or imaging software you might want to check out. It features an extremely simple user interface, which is why it is ideal for people who want to backup data without the hassle of reading through long manuals.
Something different from Clonezilla is that SuperDuper has a built-in scheduler that takes the stress away from creating backups. With this feature, all you have to do is choose intervals over which you wish the tool to create backup copies and it will execute the tasks as noted.
Another excellent feature of this tool is that it comes with a smart delete option. That means you can have the program activated on your system without running the risk of encountering disk full errors.
It is also important to note that SuperDuper uses a limited amount of resources on your system, which is why it tends to run tasks relatively fast. The program comes with a Finder extension you can use to run specific copies.
This is an exceptional tool because it is easy to use, helps you carry out disk imaging or cloning, and can also recover data that may have otherwise been lost due to system errors or crashes.
12. ShadowProtect
ShadowProtect is software created to ensure data safety for different systems. It is developed by Arcserve, a provider of data protection, replication, and recovery solutions.
The software is compatible with both Linux and Windows systems. It is an ideal solution for individuals that wish to shorten data recovery time.
That is because it can recover lost files and folders within minutes of initiating the process. It can also restore failed servers.
Additionally, this software uses patented VirtualBoot technology to rapidly boot a backup image into a virtual machine. It is also an excellent substitute for Clonezilla because it allows you to either recover a single file or the entire disk partition.
Another interesting feature about this program is that it provides a scalable solution so that you can use it on a handful of machines or thousands of them. The program simplifies mass deployment and configuration.
It also incorporates automated verification and alerts. ShadowProtect’s automated processes make it possible for you to rest assured that everything is working seamlessly in the background.
13. R-Drive Image
R-Drive Image is an imaging and backup software that does an exceptional job when it comes to data protection. The product is developed by E-Tools Technology Inc., which has its headquarters in Ontario, Canada.
Its advanced file and drive imaging capabilities allow you to create multiple instances of the same operating system in different partitions or computers. In case your OS gets corrupted or crashes, you can simply trigger a system restore and have it up and running within a few minutes.
The program’s disk partitioner helps you organize your disks, while a scheduler allows you to automate backup processes. R-Drive Image features a simple interface that allows you to run different commands with a simple click.
The program also features a smart warning system that alerts you when there is potential for any of your local disks to crash or run into other errors. This software incorporates multiple language selections for ease of use by different nationalities.
14. Hasleo Backup Suite
Hasleo Backup Suite is an array of software solutions that can help you protect important data. The suite is developed by Hasleo Software, which is a company that was established in 2012.
With Hasleo Backup Suite, you can carry out seamless imaging or cloning for your Windows systems. This particular program is different from Clonezilla because it lets you clone Windows to another disk without necessarily reinstalling Windows or related apps.
The suite also allows you to either encrypt or decrypt files depending on what you wish to do. Hasleo Backup Suite is available for free download.
15. Active@ Disk Image
Active@ Disk Image is the last but not least of the Clonezilla alternatives you can opt to use. It is developed by Lsoft Technologies Inc. This program can be a good option if you are thinking of making duplicate disks, upgrading your systems, or simply backing up data for safety purposes.
The software is compatible with multiple systems including Windows, Linux, Solaris, and different server versions. A particularly helpful feature of this program is that it can create an image or clone of any type of disk including USB, DVD, SSD, HDD, Blu-ray, and other external disk drives.
Unlike Clonezilla, Active@ Disk Image provides an option for image compression. That means you can clone the system to a smaller disk afterward.
The Verdict: What is the Best Clonezilla Alternative?
Macrium Reflect is an exceptional alternative to Clonezilla. It offers automated solutions to backing up data which makes the process less tedious.
This particular alternative is also fast and comes in five different variations to suit different needs. Finally, Macrium also comes with impressive customer support to help you get through any complications.
