Head-to-head · October 2026
Core Rollback vs WP Core Update Cleaner
Core Rollback comes out ahead, winning 6 of 7 head-to-head checks against WP Core Update Cleaner.
Core Rollback
Seamless rollback of WordPress Core to latest release or any outdated, secure release using the Core Update…
WP Core Update Cleaner
When WordPress is updated, it re-installs wp-config-sample.php, readme files, and license files even though…
| Metric | Core Rollback | WP Core Update Cleaner |
|---|---|---|
| Active installs | 20K+ | 800+ |
| Downloads (30 days) | 6.2K | 141 |
| Download trend | -51.5% | +19.5% |
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Reviews | 16 | 4 |
| Health score | 77/100 | 33/100 |
| Last updated | 2 months ago | 3 years ago |
| Tested up to | WP 7.1.2 | WP 6.5.12 |
| Support resolved | 50% | — |
| Requires PHP | 5.6+ | Any |
| First released | Nov 2020 | Dec 2014 |
Daily downloads, last 90 days
Core RollbackWP Core Update Cleaner
Choose Core Rollback if…
You care most about active installs, downloads (30 days) and reviews.
- Proven at scale on 20K+ active sites
- Tested with the latest WordPress (7.1)
Choose WP Core Update Cleaner if…
You care most about download trend.
- Small user base (800+ active installs)
- Very few reviews so far
- No update in 2 years
- Only tested up to WordPress 6.5 (latest is 7.1)
FAQ
Core Rollback vs WP Core Update Cleaner: quick answers
Straight answers, pulled from live WordPress.org data.
Live data from WordPress.org · checked Oct 3, 2026
Which is better, Core Rollback or WP Core Update Cleaner?
Core Rollback comes out ahead, winning 6 of 7 head-to-head checks against WP Core Update Cleaner. Choose Core Rollback if you care most about active installs, downloads (30 days) and reviews. Choose WP Core Update Cleaner if you care most about download trend.
Is Core Rollback more popular than WP Core Update Cleaner?
Core Rollback is the more popular of the two with 20K+ active installs, compared with 800+ for WP Core Update Cleaner.
Can I use Core Rollback and WP Core Update Cleaner together?
Both plugins cover core and upgrade, so most sites only need one. Running two plugins that do the same job can cause conflicts and slow your site down — pick the one that fits best and remove the other.
Are Core Rollback and WP Core Update Cleaner free?
Yes. Both are free to download from the official WordPress.org plugin directory. Either may also offer paid upgrades from its developer.
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