If you've ever looked at a folder stuffed with files titled IMG_001, IMG_002 and IMG_003 (copy), you know how tedious manual renaming files can be. When you're organizing images, design assets videos or research data, changing files one at a time is a waste of time and can lead to errors.
Fortunately you have a Mac that Mac offers a variety of easy methods to batch change the name of files. Plus is the fact that there are dedicated tools that make the process quick precise, precise, and effortless. Here are six of the most efficient methods to batch rename files on Mac with a range of options from built-in tools, to advanced third-party solutions.
1. Use Renamer.io for the Fastest and Easiest Batch Renaming
The most efficient and flexible method to change the name of multiple files on the Mac is to use Renamer.io. It is a specialized batch renaming software designed to be simple, fast and accuracy. You can change the names of thousands of files in a matter of seconds without having to type a single word.
How does it work:
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Drop your files onto Renamer.io.
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Include your preferred renaming rules including prefix suffix, numbering or even text substitution.
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Instantly see the results before making modifications.
Why it is so great:
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Clean, user-friendly interface.
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Real-time preview to ensure you know what's coming.
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Advanced rules for dates, sequences as well as custom patterns.
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It works flawlessly on macOS as well as Windows.
If you manage large volumes of files regularly, Renamer.io saves hours of repetitive work and aids you in staying organized.
2. Use Finder's Built-In Batch Rename Feature
Your Mac already has an easy-to-use tool to rename multiple files. Since macOS Yosemite, Finder has made it possible to change the name of several files at a time by using the menu for right-clicks.
How to go about it:
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Select all the files you wish to change their names.
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Right-click and select Rename X Items...
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Select the option to Replace Text, Add Text or choose a Format option based on the needs of your.
Pros: Cost-free, fast and already integrated into macOS.
Cons The limited customization options; the inability to handle complex patterns or metadata.
3. Automate your life with Automator
Automator is an integrated macOS application that lets you create workflows that can be reused. You can create an individual renaming process and run it at any time.
Steps:
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Open Automator, and then select Workflow or Quick Action.
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Include the Rename Finder Items action.
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Select the right option, like adding text, numbers or changing the case.
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Save the workflow and apply it in any folder.
Pros: It automatizes repetitive tasks effectively.
Pros: The interface may be confusing and outdated for those who are new to the game.
4. Rename Files Using Terminal
For more advanced users, Terminal provides powerful control over file name naming using shell commands. You can make extremely specific renaming rules within a matter of seconds.
Example command:
for file in *.jpg; do mv "$file" "photo_$"; done It will add "photo_" to every JPG file that is in the current folder.
Pros Very flexible and scriptable.
Pros: Steeper learning curve and higher risk of making mistakes.
5. Rename Images during Export with Preview
If you're working mostly with images and images, the Preview application offers a handy batch export feature that changes the name of files automatically.
How to make use of it:
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Open multiple images in Preview.
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Go to File - Export Selected Images...
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Choose the destination folder as well as the base name.
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macOS will automatically append numbers.
Pros Easy solution for smaller quantities of photographs.
Cons Creates new copies instead of changing the name of existing files.
6. Try Third-Party Finder Extensions
Certain Finder extensions or utilities, like NameChanger or Better Finder Rename offers additional flexibility. These apps offer contextual options, or drag-and drop interfaces for batch changing names.
Pros: Additional functions beyond Finder.
Cons Some of them are paid and interfaces may differ in terms of quality.
Final Thoughts
Batch changing the name of files on Mac isn't required to be a hassle or time-consuming process. With Finder's built-in tools to Automator workflows, to more advanced software such as Renamer.io, there is a solution to suit every ability level and workflow.
If you frequently work with large numbers of files, an renaming program that is specifically designed for you is the best choice. It helps you organize your projects is time-saving, and ensures consistency in the naming of your files.
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