How to Batch Rename Files on Mac
Short answer: To batch rename files on Mac, select the files you want to rename and apply a consistent naming rule. JoyClick provides batch rename actions directly from the right-click menu, including text replacement, prefixes, suffixes, numbering and extension changes, with a live preview.
Renaming a large group of files is a common task, whether you are organising photos, scans or downloads. macOS offers a basic Rename command, and JoyClick adds a more capable tool with a live preview.
Why Batch Renaming Helps
When files arrive with inconsistent names, renaming them one at a time does not scale. A consistent naming rule makes a folder easier to sort, search and archive.
How to Batch Rename Files on Mac (Built-in)
The built-in tool covers simple patterns such as replacing a word or adding a numbered suffix.
- Select the files Select the files you want to rename in Finder.
- Open Rename Items Right-click the selection and choose Rename Items.
- Choose a rule Use Replace Text, Add Text or Format, then confirm.
How to Batch Rename Files with JoyClick
- Select the files Select the files in Finder and choose Tools → Batch Rename.
- Pick a mode Choose Replace Text, Add Prefix, Add Suffix, Add Numbering or Change Extension.
- Review the preview Check the live preview of the renamed files.
- Apply Click Apply to rename the files in one operation.
Batch Rename Options
- Replace text — swap a word or string across all selected names
- Add prefix — prepend a label to every file name
- Add suffix — append a label to every file name
- Add numbering — add automatic sequential numbers
- Change extension — change the file extension in bulk
- Live preview — see the result before applying
How JoyClick helps
JoyClick adds a Batch Rename tool to the right-click menu with text replacement, prefixes, suffixes, automatic numbering, extension changes and a live preview, so you can confirm the result before applying it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I undo a batch rename?
You can rename the files again with a new rule. Reviewing the live preview before applying helps avoid mistakes.
Can I add numbering to file names?
Yes. JoyClick’s Add Numbering mode adds automatic sequential numbers to the selected files.
Can I change extensions for many files at once?
Yes. Batch Rename includes a Change Extension mode.
Sources
Last verified: October 2, 2026
Last updated: 2026-10-03
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