Top 10+ Alternatives for Rufus in 2025
Top 10+ Rufus Alternatives in 2025
Rufus is known as one of the simplest ways to create bootable USB drives, but it’s not the only solution out there. Whether you need extra features, better compatibility with Mac or Linux, or just want to try something new, there are many great Rufus alternatives available in 2025. Here are our top picks, complete with the main features and links for you to explore.
1. balenaEtcher
balenaEtcher is an easy and modern tool for flashing OS images to USB drivers and SD cards. Its clean interface makes the process simple, even for beginners.
- Cross-platform: works on Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Supports a wide range of image formats (ISO, IMG, ZIP, DMG)
- Validates every byte after writing to avoid corrupted drives
- Open-source and actively updated
2. UNetbootin
UNetbootin lets you create bootable live USB drives for Ubuntu and other Linux distributions without burning a CD.
- Supports many Linux distributions
- Can download distributions directly or use local ISO files
- Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux
- No installation needed
3. Ventoy
Ventoy is a unique Rufus alternative that allows multiple ISO files on one USB drive. It’s great for techies who need to switch between systems regularly.
- Just copy and paste ISOs to USB, no need to reformat
- Supports hundreds of image formats
- Open-source and cross-platform
- Supports UEFI and legacy boot modes
4. YUMI
YUMI (Your Universal Multiboot Installer) is perfect for creating USB drives with multiple OS and utility tools.
- Create multi-boot USB sticks with several ISOs
- Supports Linux, Windows, and various rescue tools
- Clean and easy interface
- Regularly updated with new distributions
5. DiskMaker X
DiskMaker X is a favorite for Mac users needing to create macOS boot disks.
- Specifically designed for macOS
- Automated process with just a few clicks
- Supports latest macOS versions
- Simple interface
6. WinToUSB
WinToUSB allows you to create a portable Windows workspace on a USB drive with ease.
- Install Windows from ISO, WIM, ESD, SWM, VHD, or VHDX files
- Create Windows To Go drives
- Supports both legacy and UEFI boot
- Free and paid versions available
7. ImageUSB
ImageUSB focuses on writing an image concurrently to multiple USB flash drives, ideal for mass duplication.
- Can write and clone IMG files to several drives at once
- Perfect for IT departments needing to duplicate in bulk
- Verifies writing integrity after completion
- Portable software, no installation required
8. MultiBootUSB
MultiBootUSB is another versatile tool for installing multiple live Linux distributions on a single USB stick.
- Install and uninstall any distribution at any time
- Cross-platform: works on Windows and Linux
- No installation, just run the app
- User-friendly interface
9. Universal USB Installer
Universal USB Installer is an easy-to-use program for creating Linux-based bootable USB drives.
- Supports most Linux distributions
- Option to download ISO directly from the app
- Easy to use, beginner-friendly
- Lightweight and portable
10. Deepin Boot Maker
Deepin Boot Maker is a neat choice for those who want a minimal and straightforward tool to make bootable USBs, especially for Deepin OS and other Linux distributions.
- Ultra-minimal user interface
- Designed for Linux, but works on Windows too
- Fast and reliable image writing
- Open-source project
11. SARDU MultiBoot USB and DVD Creator
SARDU offers a multisystem boot creator for both USBs and DVDs, great for diagnostics, repair, and OS installation.
- Create multiboot USBs and DVDs
- Includes antivirus, security, and diagnostic tools
- Supports Windows and Linux installations
- Free and pro versions
Conclusion
There are plenty of Rufus alternatives available in 2025, each with unique features suitable for various needs. Whether you want to create a simple bootable USB or need a professional multiboot solution, there’s an option out there for everyone. Try out some of these recommended tools and discover which one fits your workflow best!