The Best Ditto Alternatives for Windows (Free)
For a simple, modern app focused on links, try Clippy. For maximum power and scripting, try CopyQ. If you only need the basics, Windows' built-in Win V may be enough.
Ditto is a long-time favourite: free, open source and packed with options. But its interface is dated and its settings can feel overwhelming. Here are the best alternatives.
Full disclosure: I make Clippy. I've tried to be fair to every app here, and I've said where another one is the better pick.
At a glance
| App | Price | Good at | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ditto | Free, open source | Huge feature set, network sharing | Dated look, many settings |
| Clippy | Free | Simple, modern, links organised with tags | New beta, not code-signed yet |
| CopyQ | Free, open source | Scripting, tabs, Windows, Mac and Linux | Takes time to set up |
| Win+V | Built in | Nothing to install | 25 items, cleared on restart |
1. Clippy: simple and modern
Clippy keeps the links you copy and brings them back with Alt Shift V. It has a clean, modern interface and doesn't need configuring.
- Saves links by default, or everything if you choose
- Search, tags, stars and pins
- Protected clips encrypted with Windows' own data protection
- Clips can delete themselves after an hour, day or week
- Lives in the system tray and can start with Windows
- Also on Mac, if you use both
Good to know: it's new and not code-signed yet, so Windows SmartScreen may warn you the first time. Click More info → Run anyway.
2. CopyQ: for power users
CopyQ is a free, open-source clipboard manager for Windows, Mac and Linux. It stores text, HTML and images, organises them in tabs, and supports commands and scripting. It can do almost anything, but it takes time to learn.
Pick it if you liked Ditto's power and want something actively developed and cross-platform.
3. Win+V: the built-in option
Windows 10 and 11 include a basic clipboard history. It holds 25 items, has no search, and clears on restart unless you pin items. See how to fix and get more from Win+V.
How to switch from Ditto
- Install the new app and check it works.
- In Ditto, copy back any clips you want to keep, so the new app saves them.
- Close Ditto from the system tray and turn off its Start with Windows option, so the two don't fight over the same shortcut.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ditto still good?
Yes, Ditto still works well and is free. People look for alternatives mainly because of its dated interface and many settings.
What is the best free clipboard manager for Windows 11?
Clippy if you want something simple and modern for links, CopyQ if you want maximum power, or the built-in Win+V for the basics.
Can I use Clippy and Ditto together?
You can, but it's best to run one clipboard manager at a time so they don't both save every copy.
Never lose a copied link again
Clippy is a free clipboard manager for Mac and Windows. No account, no ads.