Like AVG TuneUp, Ashampoo WinOptimizer 17 comes in free and premium varieties. Ashampoo's free tool, however, does more than AVG's, as it actually lets you tune up your PC; AVG TuneUp simply scans your computer for problems and then prompts you to upgrade to the premium version. The subscriptionless, $39.99 WinOptimizer ($10 if upgrading from a previous version) adds superior tools that I'll explore later. Like many tune-up utility companies, Ashampoo runs deep discounts, so don't expect to pay the full price (at the time of this writing, WinOptimizer costs just $20). For comparison, AVG TuneUp and the Editors' Choice award-winning Iolo System Mechanic cost $49.99 and $49.95 per year, respectively. WinOptimizer is definitely easier on the wallet. As with past releases, the newest WinOptimizer includes three licenses. AVG TuneUp and Iolo System both offer unlimited licenses. The tune-up suite is compatible with the Windows 7, 8, and 10 operating systems. Please note that Windows 10 i...

Iolo System Mechanic, which costs $49.95 per year, is compatible with all PCs running Windows XP and later, including Windows 10. Like many tune-up utility companies, Iolo constantly runs discounts, so don't expect to pay the full price (at the time of this writing, Iolo System Mechanic cost $39.96). Iolo also offers System Mechanic Professional, a $69.95-per-year suite that bundles antivirus,anti-spyware, and anti-malware tools with the standard tune-up package. Just for comparison, AVG TuneUp costs $49.99 per year, while Norton Utilities Premium costs $39.99 per year. Ashampoo WinOptimizer is one of the few tune-up utilities that isn't subscription-based; it's a one-time $39.99 purchase. Unlike most PC tune-up utilities, Iolo System Mechanic lets you install the software on any number of computers, provided that it's not for business purposes. That's a welcome benefit in the age of the multi-PC home. Norton Utilities Premium places close behind Iolo with a generous 10-PC license,...