Free USB Removal tools and best alternatives to Eject your USB safely

USB safely remove freeware tools

Are you tired of encountering data loss or file corruption due to improper USB removal? Look no further! In this article, we will delve into the world of USB removal tools, exploring their significance, types, usage, benefits, and key factors to consider.

Free software is often free, but not always safe. Some freeware programs can secretly install malware or spyware without your knowledge. Is it safe to download free software from the Internet?

By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to safeguard your data and ensure the longevity of your USB drives.

While there are many reasons why you might want to download a piece of free software, it’s important to weigh those risks against the benefits. The following steps will give you a better idea of what to look for when downloading freeware.

3 Free USB Safely Remove Freeware Alternatives (USB Removal tools)

The USB device manager for Windows is USB Safely Remove Freeware, and it allows users to remove their external disk drives connected through USB ports safely.

It will save you time and give you more power on active work with a USB or SATA device. Here are free alternatives to USB Safely Remove that provide some similar features.

USB Safely removes a great utility that replaces windows, safely removes hardware, and gives a much easier and better experience when handling USB drives and card readers.

Introduction

We’ve all been there – in a rush to remove our USB drive from a computer, only to be met with a warning about improper ejection. It’s a frustrating experience that can lead to damaged files or even a corrupted drive. But fear not! USB removal tools are here to save the day.

What is a USB flash drive?

A USB Flash Drive (USB) is a portable device that can store information onto it, such as music or pictures. The USB has become very commonly used since its invention.

Many computer systems come with USB ports built into them, connecting them directly to a PC. Most modern mobile phones also contain USB slots. When using these devices, you must always ensure they are working properly.

When buying a new USB flash drive, check whether it is compatible with your system. There are several types of storage capacities, each with its features. Common USB flash drives include microSD, mini SD, and thumb drives.

It would help if you never attempted to remove data from a USB drive without taking precautions. If you try to unplug a USB drive from your computer without removing it, you risk damaging both the drive and your expensive hardware, and your computer might even get infected by malware.

What is a USB Removal Tool?

A USB removal tool is a software or hardware solution designed to safely eject USB drives from computers or other devices. It ensures that all read and write operations are completed, buffers are flushed, and the device is properly dismounted before you physically disconnect it. This process minimizes the risk of data loss, file corruption, or damage to the USB drive itself.

Why Do You Need a USB Removal Tool?

You might wonder why simply pulling out a USB drive without using a removal tool can cause problems. The answer lies in the way operating systems and storage devices interact.

When you write data to a USB drive, it’s temporarily stored in a cache or buffer. Without a proper ejecting process, you risk losing this data or corrupting files because they haven’t been completely written to the drive.

Types of USB Removal Tools

USB removal tools come in various forms, including both software and hardware solutions. Let’s explore some of the common types:

a. Software-based USB Removal Tools

Software-based USB removal tools are programs that run on your computer’s operating system. They provide a user-friendly interface to safely eject USB drives. Examples include:

  • USB Safely Remove
  • Zentimo
  • Windows built-in removal tool

b. Hardware-based USB Removal Tools

Hardware-based USB removal tools are physical devices that you can connect to your computer or device. They often have dedicated buttons or switches that allow you to safely eject USB drives without relying on software. Some popular options include:

  • Plugable USB 3.0 Sharing Switch
  • Delock USB Port Blocker

How to Use a USB Removal Tool

Using a USB removal tool is a simple and straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to safely ejecting your USB drives:

  1. Launch the USB removal tool software or press the appropriate button on a hardware-based tool.
  2. Identify the USB drive you want to remove from the list of connected devices.
  3. Select the USB drive and click the “Eject” or “Safely Remove” button.
  4. Wait for the tool to complete the ejection process and display a confirmation message.
  5. Once you receive the confirmation, physically disconnect the USB drive from your computer.

Benefits of Using a USB Removal Tool

Using a USB removal tool offers several key benefits:

  • Data Protection: Safely ejecting USB drives reduces the risk of data loss or corruption, protecting your valuable files and documents.
  • Drive Longevity: By ensuring proper dismounting, a removal tool helps extend the lifespan of your USB drives, preventing wear and tear.
  • System Stability: Proper ejection improves system stability by avoiding conflicts or errors that can occur when a drive is abruptly removed.

Popular USB Removal Tools in the Market

The market is filled with a variety of USB removal tools, each with its unique features. Here are a few popular options:

1. ProEject

ProEject is the best free alternative to USB Removal tool freeware. It is an easy-to-use application for safely removing disk drives from systems.  

Eject your USB drive without opening it. This tool is very handy when you need to remove your external drive quickly but don’t want to open it up or break it.

Connect the tool to the device and press firmly to release the connector. The project will safely disconnect your storage media and return it to its original position.

Features:

  • Designed to work with every drive type.
  • Easy to operate: plug the tool into the USB port and press firmly to release.
  • Compact design and cordless operation.
  • It can use on both Windows PCs and Macs.

2. USB Disk Ejector

USB Disk Ejector is a lightweight and open-source USB removal tool that provides a simple and efficient way to safely eject USB drives.

USB Disk Ejector is another good free alternative to the USB Safely Remove freeware. It is a free, open-source application program developed for quickly removing USB devices from Windows.

The software can safely eject the connected USB drives without affecting other running programs. The software can be run as a non-visual command line program or a normal GUI program.

Features:

  • Command-line support: Eject USB drives using a command-line interface.
  • Drive letter management: Assign and manage drive letters for your USB devices.
  • Portable app functionality: Run USB Disk Ejector as a portable application.
  • Safely eject removable drives without damaging them.
  • Easily remove drives from a computer or laptop.
  • Quickly get rid of unwanted devices like USB flash drives, SD cards, memory cards, etc.
  • It keeps removable drives safe until you want to access them.
  • Protect your data from damage during the removal process.
  • It works with Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, and 11.

Pros of USB Disk Ejector

  • Lightweight and portable.
  • Command-line support for automation.
  • Free and open-source.

Cons of USB Disk Ejector

  • Limited graphical user interface.
  • Fewer advanced features compared to other tools.

3. Hotswap

HotSwap! is a user-friendly USB removal tool that allows you to safely remove USB drives without the risk of data loss or corruption.

HotSwap is an application that helps you remove devices from Device Manager, and Device Manager is a program that helps you control devices on your computer.

The difference between Device Manager and HotSwap is that Device Manager is a built-in Windows program, and HotSwap is a program that you download and install on your computer. HotSwap is good because it makes sure that the devices you want to remove are not in use at the time of clicking the “Eject” button.

Hotswap enables you to remove devices from Device Manager, providing an easy way to start over if something goes wrong. If your device is offline or turned off, hot-swap will let you easily connect it again without any risk. The console mode lets you access Hotswap from anywhere using any web browser.

Features: 

  • Drive letter management: Easily manage drive letters for your USB devices.
  • Device locking: Lock devices to prevent accidental removal.
  • System tray integration: Access the tool from the system tray for quick and easy use.
  • Automatically reconnects devices that are disconnected or turned off.
  • Console mode lets you access hotswap from any web browser.
  • Supports mobile devices and PCs.
  • Optionally backup and restore device states before removing them.

Pros of HotSwap

  • Easy-to-use interface.
  • Device locking for added safety.
  • Free to use.

Cons of HotSwap

  • Limited advanced features.
  • Occasional compatibility issues with certain devices.

4. USB Safely Remove

USB Safely Remove is a small device that easily extracts any data storage media without having to remove it from the computer or portable drive. It allows users to safely extract files from their drives while plugged into a computer.

USB Safely Remove Tool is designed as a multifunctional stopping menu tool. With it, users can easily remove USB devices without worrying about data loss. The USB Safely Remove Tool is an easy-to-use software program that allows you to safely unplug USB devices, including flash drives, memory cards, PDAs, cameras, modems, etc. You can see what device is connected to your computer through its system tray icon or desktop icon, and users can quickly access the safe removal function when needed.

Features: 

  • Drive letter management: Easily manage and assign drive letters to your USB devices.
  • Device icon customization: Customize the icons of your USB devices for easy identification.
  • The unique design makes it easy to operate. Press the USB Safely Remove button, depress the tab, then pull up. When finished, release the button to eject the drive.
  • Portable and versatile. You can take it along when traveling or use it to make backups of your drives.
  • Sleek modern design.
  • Small & lightweight. It easily fits in your pocket.
  • Easy operation–no tools required. No cables, no software installation.
  • Multilingual interface. English and Chinese language support.
  • We can Rename a device.
  • We can change a device image.
  • Special hiding option to Hide a device from the menu.
  • Easy Scan for hardware changes.
  • Stop all devices at once.

Pros of USB Safely Remove

  • Simplifies the process of safely ejecting USB drives.
  • Offers basic drive letter management and device icon customization.

Cons of USB Safely Remove

  • Limited features compared to the paid version.
  • Occasional compatibility issues with certain devices.

5. Zentimo

Zentimo Lite is the free version of the Zentimo USB removal tool, designed to enhance the safe removal of USB drives.

A portable application that allows you to manage your USB and SATA devices. You can easily connect/disconnect/manage up to 500+ USB and SATA devices simultaneously.

It has two modes of operation:

  1. The first mode is when it’s installed on a computer. If no programs are running, the software will launch only one window showing a list of recent programs used. In this mode, it is easy to set shortcuts for frequently used applications or URLs.
  2. The second mode is when it’s running from a USB stick where the user doesn’t have access to the desktop environment. The software launches into a complete stand-alone environment. It enables users to manage their USB flash drives, install new hardware, create virtual disks, browse through files, etc.

Features:

  • One-click safe device removal: Easily and quickly remove USB drives with a single click.
  • Drive letter management: Manage and assign drive letters to your USB devices.
  • Portable app support: Use portable applications directly from your USB drives.
  • Connect or disconnect any USB and SATA device, including flash drives, hard disk drives, MP3 players, webcams, digital cameras, printers, etc.
  • You can see the status of each connected device, such as connection mode, speed, battery level, model number, serial number, installed software version, etc.
  • Furthermore, it enables you to launch your favorite applications directly from its interface.
  • The latest update supports Windows 7 64bit operating system.

Pros of Zentimo Lite

  • User-friendly interface.
  • Efficient one-click safe device removal.
  • Supports portable apps.

Cons of Zentimo Lite

  • Limited features compared to the full version.
  • Limited support for macOS and Linux.

6. EjectUSB

EjectUSB is software that lets users easily close applications remove USB drives, or power off computers without having to go through menus or be forced to wait for complex programs to finish. This freeware application will run on any Windows XP/Vista/7 operating system.

EjectUSB is a tool for quickly closing your programs or terminating them in the background, ejecting your USB drive, and locking it, so you can safely remove it.

It will automatically close all open programs and terminate programs running in the background.

Features: 

  • Support all Windows versions, including Vista/Windows 7/8/10 Operating Systems.
  • Support multiple drives and removable devices simultaneously.
  • It can be used as an uninstaller.
  • Quickly removes all types of drives and media.
  • Easy to install and use.
  • It runs on both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.
  • No installation is required.

7. Windows Built-in Removal Tool:

Windows operating systems come with a built-in USB removal tool, allowing you to safely eject USB drives without third-party software.

Features

  • Simple interface: Easy-to-use tool for ejecting USB drives.
  • Basic device removal functionality: Safely remove USB drives without the need for additional software.

Pros of Windows Built-in Removal Tool

  • Pre-installed on Windows systems.
  • No additional installation is required.
  • Free to use.

Cons of Windows Built-in Removal Tool

  • Limited features compared to dedicated USB removal tools.
  • Occasional issues with device detection and ejection.

8. DevEject:

DevEject is a command-line based USB removal tool that provides a quick and efficient way to eject USB drives from the command prompt. It is a lightweight and portable tool that allows users to safely disconnect their USB devices with ease.

Features:

  • Command-line interface: DevEject offers a command-line interface that enables users to eject USB drives using simple commands. This feature makes it suitable for users who prefer working with command-line tools or who want to automate the process.
  • Drive letter management: With DevEject, users can assign and manage drive letters for their USB devices. This feature helps in organizing and identifying USB drives effectively.
  • Automatic drive detection: The tool automatically detects connected USB drives, simplifying the process of identifying the devices that need to be ejected.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and portable: DevEject is a compact and portable tool, making it easy to carry and use on different systems without the need for installation.
  • Supports scripting for automated actions: The command-line interface allows users to create scripts or batch files for automating the ejection process. This feature can be beneficial for users who frequently work with multiple USB devices.
  • Free to use: DevEject is available as a free tool, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

Cons:

  • Command-line interface may be less user-friendly for some users: While the command-line interface provides flexibility and automation capabilities, it may require some familiarity with command-line tools, which can be a drawback for users who prefer graphical user interfaces.
  • Limited graphical user interface: DevEject primarily relies on the command-line interface, which may not be as intuitive or visually appealing as tools with graphical interfaces. This limitation may pose a challenge for users who prefer a more interactive and visually guided experience.

DevEject is a lightweight and portable USB removal tool that caters to users who prefer working with command-line tools or want to automate the process of ejecting USB drives.

Its command-line interface, drive letter management, and automatic drive detection features provide efficient and flexible functionality.

However, users who are less familiar with command-line tools may find it less user-friendly compared to tools with graphical interfaces.

9. USB Oblivion

USB Oblivion is a specialized USB removal tool that focuses on cleaning traces of connected USB devices from the Windows registry. It is designed to ensure privacy and improve system performance by removing remnants of USB devices that have been connected to the computer.

Features:

  • Cleaning USB device traces: USB Oblivion scans and removes USB device history from the Windows registry. It helps eliminate traces of previously connected USB devices, including their driver installations, configuration settings, and other related entries. This feature aims to protect user privacy and maintain system performance.

Pros:

  • Helps maintain privacy: USB Oblivion offers a dedicated solution for removing traces of connected USB devices. By cleaning the Windows registry, it helps safeguard user privacy by eliminating any potential information that might be left behind by USB devices.
  • Improves system performance: Over time, the Windows registry can accumulate unnecessary entries from connected USB devices. USB Oblivion’s cleaning functionality helps optimize system performance by reducing registry clutter and potential conflicts caused by leftover USB device traces.

Cons:

  • Limited to cleaning USB device traces: USB Oblivion is primarily focused on removing traces of USB devices from the Windows registry. It does not provide full USB removal functionality like safely ejecting USB drives or managing drive letters.
  • May require additional tools for comprehensive system cleaning: While USB Oblivion efficiently cleans USB device traces, it may be necessary to use other system cleaning tools to address additional areas of the computer for a comprehensive cleaning process.

USB Oblivion is a dedicated USB removal tool that specializes in cleaning traces of connected USB devices from the Windows registry.

It helps maintain privacy by removing remnants of USB devices and improves system performance by reducing clutter in the registry.

However, it is important to note that USB Oblivion focuses solely on cleaning USB device traces and may require additional tools for comprehensive system cleaning.

10. Deluxe USB Disk Ejector

Deluxe USB Disk Ejector is a free and portable USB removal tool that provides a user-friendly interface for safely ejecting USB drives. It offers a convenient and straightforward solution for disconnecting USB devices from your computer without the risk of data loss or corruption.

Features:

  • Portable and intuitive interface: Deluxe USB Disk Ejector is a portable tool, meaning it does not require installation and can be run directly from a USB drive. It features an intuitive interface that allows users to easily identify and eject their USB devices with a few simple clicks.
  • Drive letter management: The tool provides the ability to assign and manage drive letters for USB devices. This feature allows users to customize the drive letter assignments to their preferences, making it easier to locate and access USB drives.
  • Customizable settings: Deluxe USB Disk Ejector allows users to personalize the tool’s behavior according to their preferences. Users can configure settings such as confirmation prompts, drive letter assignment rules, and notification options.

Pros:

  • Portable and easy to use: Deluxe USB Disk Ejector’s portability makes it a convenient tool that can be carried on a USB drive and used on multiple computers without the need for installation. Its user-friendly interface ensures a straightforward and hassle-free experience.
  • Customizable settings for a personalized experience: The tool’s customizable settings allow users to tailor its behavior to their liking. Users can set their preferred confirmation prompts, automate drive letter assignments, and choose notification preferences, enhancing the tool’s flexibility.
  • Free to use: Deluxe USB Disk Ejector is available as a free tool, providing valuable USB removal functionality without any cost.

Cons:

  • Limited advanced features compared to other tools: While Deluxe USB Disk Ejector offers essential USB removal features, it may lack some of the advanced functionalities found in other paid software options. Users with specific requirements or advanced needs may find the tool’s capabilities somewhat limited.
  • May lack some functionalities present in paid software: As a free tool, Deluxe USB Disk Ejector may not provide all the features and functionalities available in premium USB removal software. Users seeking more comprehensive functionality may need to explore paid alternatives.

Deluxe USB Disk Ejector is a free and portable USB removal tool that provides a user-friendly interface for safely ejecting USB drives. Its portability, intuitive interface, and customizable settings contribute to its ease of use and flexibility.

However, users with more advanced requirements may find the tool’s features somewhat limited compared to paid alternatives. Nonetheless, for basic USB ejection needs, Deluxe USB Disk Ejector is a convenient and reliable solution.

Comparison of USB Removal Tools

To help you make an informed decision, let’s compare the key features of some popular USB removal tools:

USB Removal ToolIntroductionFeaturesProsCons
USB Safely Remove FreeA feature-rich USB removal tool with advanced capabilities.– Device-stopping functionality
– Process monitoring
– Drive letter management
– Advanced features
– User-friendly interface
– Process monitoring
– Paid version offers more features
– May have a learning curve for beginners
Zentimo LiteA USB removal tool with enhanced drive management features.– Drive letter management
– Automatic device detection
– Safe removal of devices
– Enhanced drive management
– Automatic device detection
– Lite version may lack some advanced features
– Paid version offers more functionalities
Windows Built-in Removal ToolThe default USB removal tool is provided by Windows.– Basic USB ejection functionality
– System integration
– Pre-installed on Windows
– Easy to access and use
– Limited advanced features
– May not work smoothly in some cases
USB Disk EjectorA lightweight and simple USB removal tool.– Command-line interface
– Drive letter management
– Automatic drive detection
– Lightweight and portable
– Supports scripting
– Command-line interface may be less user-friendly
– Limited graphical user interface
HotSwap!A USB removal tool with hot-swapping capabilities.– Hot-swapping functionality
– Notification options
– Hot-swapping support
– Customizable notifications
– Limited features compared to other tools
– May lack some advanced functionalities
DevEjectA command-line based USB removal tool.– Command-line interface
– Drive letter management
– Automatic drive detection
– Lightweight and portable
– Supports scripting
– Command-line interface may be less user-friendly
– Limited graphical user interface
USB OblivionA tool focused on cleaning USB device traces from the Windows registry.– Cleaning USB device traces– Helps maintain privacy
– Improves system performance
– Limited to cleaning USB device traces
– May require additional tools for system cleaning
Deluxe USB Disk EjectorA free and portable USB removal tool with an intuitive interface.– Portable and intuitive interface
– Drive letter management
– Customizable settings
– Portable and easy to use
– Customizable settings
– Limited advanced features compared to other tools
– May lack some functionalities
EjectUSBA free USB removal tool for quick and safe ejection.– Quick and safe ejection– Quick and straightforward USB ejection– Limited features compared to other USB removal tools
– May lack advanced functionalities
KCleanerA system cleaner tool with USB removal functionality.– USB removal feature
– System cleaning and optimization
– Provides USB removal functionality
– Helps optimize system performance
– USB removal feature may have fewer advanced options
– Some features may require paid version

Best Practices for USB Removal Tool Usage

To maximize the effectiveness of your USB removal tool, consider these best practices:

  • Always Eject: Make it a habit to use a removal tool every time you want to disconnect a USB drive, regardless of the device or operating system.
  • Wait for Confirmation: Before physically removing the USB drive, wait for the removal tool to display a confirmation message or indicator.
  • Avoid Forceful Removal: Never forcibly remove a USB drive without properly ejecting it first, as it can lead to data loss or hardware damage.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a USB Removal Tool

When selecting a USB removal tool, keep these factors in mind:

  • Compatibility: Ensure that the tool is compatible with your operating system and USB devices.
  • Ease of Use: Look for a tool with a user-friendly interface and intuitive features.
  • Additional Features: Some tools offer extra functionalities like device monitoring or customizable eject options.

Tips for Maintaining USB Health

Proper maintenance is essential for the longevity of your USB drives. Consider these tips to keep your USB drives healthy:

  • Keep it Clean: Regularly remove dust and debris from the USB connector to maintain a solid connection.
  • Protect from Physical Damage: Avoid subjecting your USB drives to extreme temperatures, moisture, or mechanical stress.
  • Backup Your Data: Regularly back up your USB drive contents to prevent data loss in case of any unforeseen events.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What is a removable USB?

    USB drives have a removable design and allow users to plug them into their computers and remove them at will. They are slim and portable, with both small and full-sized USB drives available. Removable USB drives are more reliable than optical disc drives because they use flash memory chips. A person can take the USB drive with them wherever they go, but the drive can be removed when something is downloading to use it on the computer for other tasks.

  2. Is a USB a removable disk?

    A USB flash drive is a removable hard drive available in various forms to fulfill different purposes. It is a small hardware device that allows you to save and carry your data anywhere around you. You can also share the information from your device with another device, thanks to a USB flash drive. A USB is a flash memory device that is housed inside a case. There are several forms of USB flash drives, such as Compact Flash, Card, Flash Drive, Pico, Memory Stick, etc

  3. How do I make my USB removable?

    Here are two main ways to remove a USB device. The first method is to eject the external drive and remove the USB cable. It is the easiest method, but it doesn’t allow you to stop the transfer midway if you need to. The second method is to remove the drive while the device is transferring data. It is slightly more complicated, but it allows you to stop the transfer before removing the drive.

  4. How do I change my USB from removable to fixed?

    Great question! So most external hard drives come with a USB cable and a USB key. The first thing you need to do is connect the hard drive to your computer. Once you’ve done that, you’ll be able to drag and drop files from your computer to the external drive.

  5. Why is a pen drive shown as a removable disk?

    supply in your system. The USB port in your system is most likely why you have faced this issue. It can resolve the issue by checking the power supply on your computer. Other times, you can resolve this issue by simply changing to another USB port in your system. If the problem persists, it is advised to check with the manufacturer of the USB port and your system.

  6. What is the difference between a hard disk and a removable disk?

    A hard disk is a nonvolatile storage device that holds information even when the computer is off. It’s usually located inside your computer. A removable disk is a type of storage used to store and transfer information, and it can be removed and used on different computers. One of the most popular ways to store data on a removable disk is to use a flash drive, which looks like a USB memory stick. The drive is made of plastic and comes with a sliding cover. It’s used to store computer data, music, and other files. 

Final words

To manually install a USB device, you need to go through the following steps: Open the Computer Management window. You can do this by going to Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Administrative Tools > Computer Management.

Next, you have to open the Disk Management console. You can do this by going to Start > Computer > System Tools > Disk Management. Now, you have to mount the disk drive. You can do this by right-clicking on the disk drive’s icon in the left panel and clicking “Mount.” Once the drive is mounted, you can safely remove the disk drive and insert it again.

In Windows 10, Microsoft has tried to make things a bit easier for us. They searched for the best way to do removable devices to complete this. They decided to improve how we’re able to connect removable devices, but they also decided to improve how we remove them.

In a world where data is paramount, safeguarding your USB drives is crucial. USB removal tools provide a simple yet effective solution for safely ejecting your USB drives, reducing the risk of data loss, and extending their lifespan.

By following best practices and considering factors like compatibility and ease of use, you can choose the right USB removal tool to meet your needs. Remember, proper USB removal is the key to preserving your valuable data and maintaining a healthy USB ecosystem.

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