Head-to-head · File Renaming Software
PBRenamer vs Rename Expert
PBRenamer leads on 1 check, Rename Expert on 0, and 5 are even. Who comes out ahead on the 6 yes/no, price and count checks where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scorePBRenamer · 7.1/10
- Free planonly PBRenamer
PBRenamer scores higher on our rubric for file renaming software: 7.1 against 6.9 out of 10; our editors rank them #6 and #8.
PBRenamer offers free plan; Rename Expert doesn't. On platform coverage, PBRenamer gives you Multi_platform where Rename Expert offers Windows_only.
PBRenamer is the better fit for free cross-platform power users. Rename Expert is the better fit for windows metadata-heavy operations.
- PBRenamer fits best
Free cross-platform power users
- Rename Expert fits best
Windows metadata-heavy operations
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Side by side
| Feature | PBRenamer 7.1/10 Visit ↗ | Rename Expert 6.9/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 7.1 | 6.9 |
| Ranking | #6 in File Renaming Software | #8 in File Renaming Software |
| Best for | Free cross-platform power users | Windows metadata-heavy operations |
| Pricing model | Free | Paid |
| Starting price | Not published | Not published |
| Free plan | ✓ (best) | — |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Desktop | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows |
| Built for | Solo, Small business | Solo, Small business, Enterprise |
| Features PBRenamer 5/5 · Rename Expert 5/5 | ||
| Regex renaming | ✓ | ✓ |
| Metadata-based renaming | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rename preview | ✓ | ✓ |
| Folder renaming | ✓ | ✓ |
| Undo changes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Specs | ||
| Platform coverage | Multi_platform | Windows_only |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | PBRenamer is a free, open-source desktop application for batch-renaming files and directories across Windows, macOS, and Linux. It is aimed at power users who need more control than simple find-and-replace tools provide, including… Read the review → |
Rename Expert is a Windows desktop application for batch-renaming files and folders. It is designed for individuals and organizations managing large collections or repeatable workflows. Its naming actions cover replacing, inserting,… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
PBRenamer — where it wins
- Free and open-source on Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Previews conflicts before batch renaming and supports undo
- Combines regex, metadata tokens, recursive handling, and CLI mode
Where it doesn't
- Marked as alpha software in its package metadata
- Advanced pattern and metadata rules may require technical familiarity
- No paid tier or broader service ecosystem for managed support
Rename Expert — where it wins
- Renames files and folders using extensive metadata sources
- Combines Perl-compatible regex, filters, sorting, and reusable profiles
- Includes preview, conflict checking, undo, redo, and command-line support
Where it doesn't
- Windows only, with no macOS or Linux platform
- No free plan; the demo is limited to 30 days
- The demo limits how many files or folders can be renamed at once
- PBRenamer7.1/10 · Free plan
A free, open-source renamer for power users who need regex, metadata, and automation.
Visit PBRenamerFull verdict → - Rename Expert6.9/10 · From €39.95 · 30-day trial
A Windows batch renamer with deep metadata, regex, preview, and automation tools.
Visit Rename ExpertFull verdict →
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All file renaming software comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026
Last updated · How we research and update




