Duplicate files can be a big problem. They take up space that could be used for something else, and there can be confusion if one copy is edited and the others aren't.

Fast Duplicate File Finder is a utility that will scan a disk, folder or collection of the two to look for duplicate files.

The interface is well designed and the installer automatically opens a web page with instructions for getting started, a nice touch that helps the first-time user.

The time needed to scan depends on the size of the folders but there are progress indicators.

Once the duplicates have been found, they are shown in the main window. They are selected ready for removal, leaving one copy behind.

One sensible default option is to send the duplicates to the Recycle Bin rather than a real delete. This offers an escape route if a mistake is made.

A frustration was that there was no way to mark certain folders as the one that should remain. If the best folder is not selected, it can mean a lot of work to select the right folder for all the duplicates.