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rmlint

github.com

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Spec score 7.2 #25 of 38 in Duplicate File Finders

What it is

rmlint is free GPLv3 software that finds duplicate files and other filesystem waste, then offers candidates for removal. It scans local paths, mounted volumes and file lists supplied through standard input. Searches can identify duplicate files and directories, nonstripped binaries, broken symbolic links, empty files and directories, and files with broken user or group IDs. Duplicate checks support several hash methods and exact byte-by-byte comparison, with optional basename or extension matching. The documentation says scans can handle millions of files. Numerous output formats are available, and a previous run can be stored so later scans check only new files. File previews and automatic selection are provided. A Python graphical frontend, Shredder, ships with rmlint from version 2.4.0 onward. Shredder rechecks files before deletion, but its interface remains in development and should be used cautiously. Linux is the main target; the project also names FreeBSD, Darwin and Solaris. There is no built-in Recycle Bin or Trash.

Spec sheet

Purpose
rmlint finds duplicate files and other space waste or broken items on a filesystem and offers to remove them.Read 8 Oct 2026 · github.com
Support
The project directs users who find bugs, have trouble running rmlint, or want to suggest features to its bug-reporting guidance.Read 8 Oct 2026 · github.com
License
rmlint is licensed under GPLv3.Read 8 Oct 2026 · github.com
Deletion safety
Shredder rechecks each file before deletion, and its documentation warns that the interface is still in development and should be used at the user's risk.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rmlint.readthedocs.io
Duplicate checks
It supports several hashes for duplicate detection and an exact byte-by-byte comparison option.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rmlint.readthedocs.io
Finds
It can find duplicate files and directories, nonstripped binaries, broken symbolic links, empty files and directories, and files with broken user or group IDs.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rmlint.readthedocs.io
GUI
A Python graphical frontend named Shredder is shipped alongside rmlint from version 2.4.0 onward.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rmlint.readthedocs.io
Installation
The installation guide lists packages or installation options for Linux distributions and macOS, among other systems.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rmlint.readthedocs.io
Large scans
The documentation says rmlint can handle file sets containing millions of files.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rmlint.readthedocs.io
Output and replay
It offers numerous output options and can store the last run so a later scan only checks new files.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rmlint.readthedocs.io
Supported systems
The project says it runs and compiles under Linux, FreeBSD, Darwin, and Solaris, with Linux as its main target.Read 8 Oct 2026 · github.com
Use caution
The project cautions that duplicate finders, including rmlint, can identify false positives or have serious bugs, and recommends checking deletion candidates.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rmlint.readthedocs.io

Plans and prices

rmlint Free GPLv3-licensed software Read 8 Oct 2026 · github.com

Every rmlint plan and price →

Strong points and limits

Strong points

  • Free GPLv3-licensed software
  • Handles scans containing millions of files
  • Supports hashes and exact byte comparisons
  • Offers previews and automatic selection
  • Includes the Shredder graphical frontend

Limits

  • No Recycle Bin or Trash feature
  • Shredder is still in development
  • Project warns of false positives and serious bugs
  • Linux is the main target

Who it suits

rmlint suits users managing large Linux or macOS filesystems who need duplicate and waste detection. It is also relevant to users comfortable reviewing deletion candidates and using command-line or graphical workflows.

Verdict

rmlint provides broad filesystem scanning, multiple matching methods and replayable results at no listed cost. Deletion requires care because the project warns about false positives, bugs and the absence of a Trash feature.

Where Specifiction places it

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