RenameRegex review
A focused, free Windows utility for batch renaming with regex control and previews.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
RenameRegex is an open-source Windows command-line utility for renaming files, directories, or both in batches. It is designed for users who need repeatable naming rules rather than one-off edits, with support for simple substitutions, .NET regular expressions, file-match patterns, and recursive processing. Case-insensitive matching and file-extension preservation add control for larger folder structures, while optional overwrite handling gives users a choice when destination names already exist.
The product is free to use and distributed under the MIT license, with no paid tiers separating core capabilities. Its published feature set includes file and directory batch renaming, regular-expression search and replacement, preview mode, recursive processing, case-insensitive matching, extension preservation, and overwrite control. That makes the value proposition straightforward: users get the full listed toolset without a commercial plan structure. The latest listed release is v1.7.0 from February 2022, which is relevant for buyers assessing how the project fits into a longer-term workflow.
Setup and daily use center on the Windows command line, so RenameRegex is a better fit for users comfortable specifying paths, patterns, substitutions, and processing options than for people seeking a graphical renaming interface. Preview mode provides a review step before changes are applied, and recursive processing helps extend a rule through nested directories. The tool should appeal to Windows users who want free, scriptable regex renaming with directory support. Those who need broader platform coverage, visual workflow design, undo-oriented recovery, or metadata-focused operations should choose a different type of renaming tool.
RenameRegex pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Batch-renames files and directories with regular expressions
- Preview mode shows proposed changes before execution
- Recursive processing preserves file extensions and supports case-insensitive matching
- Where it doesn't
- Windows-only platform coverage
- Command-line workflow suits technically comfortable users
- Focused on renaming rather than undo or metadata workflows
RenameRegex 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 · How we research and update