Search & Replace vs Database Cleaner (2026)
Detailed side-by-side comparison of two WordPress plugins, based on real-time data from WordPress.org.
Quick Verdict
As of April 2026, Database Cleaner has a higher user rating (5/5 from 148 reviews) while Search & Replace leads in active installations (100K+ vs 10K+). Both are free WordPress plugins. Search & Replace has accumulated 3.2M+ total downloads while Database Cleaner has 463K+.
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | Search & Replace | Database Cleaner | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.3/5 | ► | 5/5 |
| Total Reviews | 282 | ◄ | 148 |
| Active Installs | 100K+ | ◄ | 10K+ |
| Total Downloads | 3.2M+ | ◄ | 463K+ |
| Support Resolution | N/A | 0% | |
| Last Updated | 1 year ago | ► | 1 month ago |
| First Released | 2007 | 2021 | |
| Age | 19 years | 5 years | |
| WP Requires | 4.0+ | 6.0+ | |
| PHP Requires | 5.6+ | 7.4+ | |
| Business Model | Free | Free | |
| Latest Version | 3.2.3 | 1.3.4 |
Rating Breakdown
Search & Replace
Database Cleaner
Download Trends
Over the past 30 days, Search & Replace averaged approximately 177 daily downloads while Database Cleaner averaged 173.
Recent Reviews
Search & Replace Reviews
It still works great
I changed my url, 12 tables with 58 entries . While not a big site, but it was nice. it says not tested in the last 3 versions of WP. Welp, it works in php8.2x and WP 6.8.2
Works fine when changing the domain
I have used this plugin several times for different webpages. Especially when the webpage was moved to other domain. It works fine. Before replace, it’s possible to test and check the results. H
Bulk edits to the database
[Update 12/26/24] I tried using the bulk “CSV Format Search/Replace” feature, but it seems only the latest replacement string is applied. I’ll now try another method, such as using the WP-CLI.—This pl
Database Cleaner Reviews
Smart relational analysis & Lower false positives
A well-designed WordPress optimisation plugin that stands out for its precision and restraint. Rather than aggressively deleting data, it analyses relationships within the database and clearly flags w
Search function for free
A very good plugin with features that are usually found in premium plugins, for example, a search function, which in Advanced Database Cleaner, for instance, requires the Pro version.
Does everything I ask
No problems at all
More Sql Worth Comparing
Top alternatives in the same category as Search & Replace and Database Cleaner
Manage the database from your WordPress Dashboard using Adminer.
Your one-stop solution for easy WordPress database management
Execute arbitrary SQL queries against your WordPress database from the Admin.
Provides a secure interface to your WordPress database using Adminer, the popular database administration tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Search & Replace or Database Cleaner more popular?
Which has better ratings — Search & Replace or Database Cleaner?
Are Search & Replace and Database Cleaner free?
Which plugin has better support — Search & Replace or Database Cleaner?
Which plugin is updated more frequently?
Plugin data sourced from WordPress.org. Comparison and analysis by PluginSift.