TeraCopy 2.3 Review

good
key review info
application features
  • Copy and move files fast
  • (6 more, see all...)

File operations are such a mundane task, that they stand out only when something goes wrong – copying takes too long, a file has errors so Windows skips everything, and so on.

An application that tries to simplify our digital lives in this matter is TeraCopy. We have previously reviewed it seven years ago, and we're trying to figure out if it's been improved or not.

The main advantage of TeraCopy is that it allows users to create a pending queue with multiple file operations to execute at the same time. Additionally, it skips corrupt files without canceling the rest of the job.

The complete package includes an installer and portable counterpart. The difference between the two is that the portable version can be saved to a mass storage device and used on computers without previously installing anything. Moreover, it does not create new entries in the Windows registry (unlike its installer twin).

On the other hand, it restricts some features, such as context menu integration for quick file copying and moving via TeraCopy instead of Windows native support. Users may also associate the app with MD5 and SFV files. Unwrapping the application takes little time.

The interface does not contain visually striking elements but its simplicity matches the tone of TeraCopy's technical nature, keeping file operations as organized as possible. It stays on top of other frames by default, and this option can be disabled from the context menu.

There are two interchangeable viewing modes. “Less” shows only the basic functions for carrying out file copying or moving jobs rapidly, while the “More” version extends this panel and reveals file information: source file's path, size, status, source and target CRC.

One or more files as well as directories can be conveniently added to TeraCopy via “drag and drop.” A destination folder must be established, after which the files in question can be either moved or copied. If files already exist in the saving directory, the application prompts for an action between overwriting (all or older), renaming or skipping the current or all files.

However, users who want to make TeraCopy automatically execute the same command when encountering file doubles may change the default action from always asking to one of those previously mentioned. They may also limit file name lengths to 255 characters.

Ongoing tasks may be paused, while the current processed file may be skipped. In addition, the program offers support for automatic post-task actions, namely PC shutdown, eject drive, run test, or exit TeraCopy. The bottom part of the screen has a drop-down menu with entries pertaining to log activity since the app's last run. This includes task duration and speed, incomplete file deletions, and selected target folders.

The application offers the possibility to permanently delete files from the disk or send them to the Recycle Bin after selecting entries in the list. The drawback is that users might inadvertently perform this action thinking that it will remove an entry from the list. Furthermore, TeraCopy implements a feature for comparing the files in the source location with the ones in the output by verifying their CRC values.
As far as program settings are concerned, TeraCopy may be deselected as the default copy handler in Explorer or only when the Scroll Lock is off. It can also be integrated into the Total Commander and Directory Opus file managers, play sound when file operations are done, skip free space checkups, always test after copy, and use the system write cache.

Measuring performance

We put TeraCopy and Windows Explorer to the test on an Intel Core i5-3470, CPU 3.20GHz, 12GB RAM, 500GB Seagate Barracuda ST500DM002 7200RPM, on Windows 8.1 Pro.

The subject was a 4.37GB file that we copied from one drive to another. TeraCopy finished the job in 1 minute and 44 seconds, while Explorer took about 1 minute and 53 seconds, so the two were close. Moving the same file from one drive to another had similar results: TeraCopy in 1 minute and 38 seconds, while native Windows support needed 1 minute and 53 seconds. CPU and RAM usage was low.


The Good

The utility is compatible with Windows 8/8.1 (32- and 64-bit). It has a straightforward interface that permits users to immediately dive into file operations.

TeraCopy comes in an installer and portable version, depending on the user's preferences. It supports multiple monitors and logs program activity.

It skips corrupt files when encountering them, continues with the file operation, and displays the faulty items at the end to give users a chance to redo the task.

When using the Copy, Cut and Paste commands in Windows Explorer, TeraCopy pops up a window and offers to carry out the operation with either the program or Explorer. The option can be applied for the current task or future file operations as well.

The Bad

The context menu that can be opened in the task list has all options grayed out. Although we spent some time trying to figure out the best course of action to make them active, we finally learned that these features are available only in the Pro version. However, this is not indicated anywhere in TeraCopy.

It is not possible to remove files from the task list if you changed your mind about them, so you have to restart the app. The cleanup button clears only completed jobs, while the delete button removes files from the hard drive.

Help documentation is not available.

The Truth

While TeraCopy cannot be condemned of not trying, it still needs some major improvements to outperform the Windows native support for file copying and moving.

user interface 3
features 3
ease of use 4
pricing / value 5


final rating 3
Editor's review
good