rdfind review

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

rdfind is a free, open-source command-line utility for finding duplicate files within or across directories. It suits users who want direct control over scans, reports, selection rules, and file actions rather than a graphical review workflow. Recursive searches accept directories and individual files as command-line arguments, and the tool runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows through supported installation or compatibility methods. It has been maintained since 2006, with source compilation available on Unix-like systems.

Its matching process is more deliberate than filename-based comparison. rdfind compares file sizes, checks selected first and last bytes, and then uses checksums to identify equal content. Supported checksum choices include MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-512, and xxh128. The tool also handles inode and device identity, ranks matching files to identify an original and duplicates, and writes a results.txt report by default. That combination gives command-line users useful automation for recurring cleanup or scripted workflows. Duplicate files can be deleted, or replaced with symbolic or hard links.

The trade-off is a narrow, terminal-first experience. There is no preview interface, so users who need visual inspection before deciding what to remove should choose a duplicate finder built around graphical review. Deletion also does not use Recycle Bin handling, which makes file-action choices important before running cleanup commands. Linux users can work directly with the command-line utility; macOS installation is described through MacPorts, while the Windows approach uses Cygwin. rdfind is a strong fit for technically comfortable users who value content matching, reports, and link replacement, but less suitable for people seeking guided onboarding or visual file management.

rdfind pros and cons

• Where it wins
  • Compares content, not filenames, using staged checks and checksums
  • Supports MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-512, and xxh128
  • Can rank originals, create reports, and replace duplicates with links
• Where it doesn't
  • Command-line workflow requires comfort with terminal-based tools
  • No preview interface for reviewing duplicate groups
  • Deletion does not include Recycle Bin handling

rdfind fact sheet, pricing and score →

Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.

Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update