Registry Mechanic 8.0

PC Tools' "Registry Mechanic" is a useful tool, designed to maintain your computer. When the registry has many entries from installed and uninstalled programs, it may slow your computer's operating speed. This application monitors registry changes and allows your computer to perform at its best.

The program consists of three major tools: Registry scanner and fixer, System optimizer, and Registry compacter and optimizer.

The Registry scanner searches for registry problems from different group categories, such as Registry integrity, Custom controls, Software locations, Windows fonts, Help and resources, Shared DLLs, Startup programs, Add/Remove Programs, Virtual devices, and temp files/shortcuts. The list can be customized and have the scanner check only your selected categories.

The system optimizer tries to improve the speed of the applications. The Registry compacter helps you free space on your hard drive by compacting the registry, but in my opinion, this isn't helping much. For example, after compacting my registry I only got 3.18 Mb of extra free space, which I don't think it's something noticeable.

The program allows you to create a system restore point, before repairing any problems. In case something goes wrong, you can revert to your system's former state. The scanning process is logged. You can create a list of exceptions or a list of paths to include while scanning.

Pluses: The best feature is the Registry Monitor, which runs in the background (it doesn't take many resources to run) and real-time monitors changes done to the registry.

Drawbacks / flaws:

In conclusion: This is one great registry maintenance and optimization tool.

version reviewed: 8.0.0.902