batch renaming Archives

Winsage

March 23, 2026

PowerToys adds these 8 features that Windows should have had for years

PowerToys is a curated set of utilities created by Microsoft to enhance functionality for power users, evolving from its origins in Windows 95. Users can install PowerToys easily from the Microsoft Store or GitHub. Key features include: - Text Extractor: Captures text from images for easy copying. - Color Picker: Identifies and captures hex codes of colors by pressing Windows + Shift + C. - Command Palette: Allows quick searching of files and launching applications with Windows + Alt + Space. - Awake: Keeps the computer active during long tasks, accessible from the PowerToys menu. - Shortcut Guide: Displays Windows key shortcuts by pressing Windows + Shift + /. - Pixel Ruler: Measures dimensions on the screen by pressing Windows + Ctrl + Shift + M. - File Manager Enhanced Preview: Expands file preview capabilities in Windows Explorer. - PowerRename: Facilitates batch renaming of files with a preview option. These features aim to improve the Windows user experience and may influence future updates to the operating system.

Winsage

March 20, 2026

How I’ve improved Windows 11 with a 30-year-old tool

Microsoft PowerToys is a utility that enhances the Windows experience with additional features. It was first introduced with Windows 95, revived in 2019 as an open-source tool, and is available for free download from the Microsoft Store or GitHub. Key features of PowerToys include: - Pin important windows on top: Users can pin active windows above others using the shortcut Win+Ctrl+T, allowing for better focus on key tasks. - Resize images: The Image Resizer tool allows users to resize images to specific dimensions through right-click options, with presets for Fill, Fit, or Stretch. - Extract text from the screen: The Text Extractor uses Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to copy text directly from anywhere on the screen by selecting the area with Win+T. - Control multiple computers: The Mouse Without Borders feature enables users to control up to four computers with a single set of peripherals and share clipboard and files. - Customize shortcuts: The Keyboard Manager allows users to remap keys and shortcuts, though some keys are reserved for system functions. - Batch rename files: PowerRename enables users to rename multiple files at once through a right-click option, with a preview of changes. - Thumbnail and preview pane previews: PowerToys enhances file previews in File Explorer for additional file types and adds thumbnail support for files that Windows Explorer does not natively generate thumbnails for. - Crop and Lock: This feature allows users to crop application windows to focus on specific content, with two modes: Thumbnail mode for static previews and Reparent mode for functional cropped windows. PowerToys continues to be a valuable tool for enhancing productivity on Windows.

Winsage

January 7, 2026

3 Free Windows File Managers That Beat File Explorer

Recent evaluations of three free alternative file managers—OneCommander, Files, and FileVoyager—show that they outperform Windows File Explorer in efficiency and usability, particularly for tasks like bulk renaming and data transfer. While File Explorer has improved with features like tabs and cloud integration, it still falls short for power tasks, requiring excessive clicks and context switching. OneCommander offers a familiar interface with dual-pane layouts, tabs, and interactive navigation, excelling in seamless navigation and file operations. It maintained stable connections during large data transfers. Files is a modern, open-source option with strong cloud support and effective media handling, benefiting from community-driven updates. FileVoyager provides extensive control with dual panes and customization options, appealing to power users who prefer keyboard-driven control. All three alternatives demonstrate improved interaction efficiency and stability during complex tasks compared to File Explorer, making them viable replacements for users managing extensive media libraries or engaging in heavy bulk processes.

Winsage

January 6, 2026

These 3 Windows file managers made me ditch File Explorer

The text discusses three free file managers that enhance file management capabilities for Windows users: 1. Total Commander: - Dual windows with drag-and-drop support - Side panels for navigation - Built-in tools for batch renaming and archiving - FTP client integration - Favorites for quick access - Comprehensive file operations (copy, move, delete, rename) - File comparison with a built-in text editor - Folder synchronization - Encoding and decoding options - Full-text and duplicate file search - Customizable layout and toolbar - Background downloading support - Secure FTP over SSL/TLS 2. OneCommander: - Custom rendering and DirectX support - Session-saving tabs - Dual-pane view - Choice between Miller-Columns navigation and standard layout - Dark and light themes - User-editable icons - Built-in file preview capabilities - Support for long Unicode paths - Organized favorites into project groups - Quick filtering options - Adaptive view and dynamic columns - File Automator for advanced renaming and conversion 3. FileVoyager: - Dual-pane interface - Multiple browsing modes (report and thumbnail) - Comprehensive file operations - Support for numerous compression formats - Multimedia playback for audio and video - Folder synchronization and file comparison tools - Quick preview for any file format - Support for viewing ebooks and comic book files - Syntax highlighting for source code - Display files in flat or hexadecimal format All three file managers are available for free, with OneCommander offering a Pro version for additional features.

Winsage

November 21, 2025

5 Windows apps to install first on a new PC and what each one does for you

Every new Windows laptop presents a pristine interface, but users often encounter frustrations such as locating files, cumbersome multitasking, and needing assistance with certain formats. A curated selection of applications can streamline the user experience significantly. 1) Microsoft PowerToys enhances multitasking with features like FancyZones for window arrangement, batch renaming files, resizing images, and customizing keyboard shortcuts. 2) Everything by Voidtools simplifies the search process on Windows, allowing users to find files instantly with just a few letters typed. 3) 7 Zip manages zipped folders and unconventional formats, offering features for compressing, splitting files, and securing documents with passwords. 4) Bitwarden centralizes passwords and notes, providing a single sign-in and autofill feature that syncs across devices, helping users avoid weak password reuse. 5) SumatraPDF is a lightweight PDF reader that opens documents quickly and supports epub and mobi files, serving as a basic eBook reader. These applications alleviate daily annoyances on Windows and prioritize functionality over aesthetics.

AppWizard

November 16, 2025

10 Of The Best Free Android Apps You Haven’t Heard Of

A selection of free Android apps with a minimum rating of 4.0 on the Play Store includes: 1. Solid Explorer File Manager - Rated 4.3 stars from 150,000 reviewers; features a dual-pane layout, cloud storage integration, file management across various storage options, batch renaming, and AES encryption. 2. Cashew - Expense Budget Tracker - Rated 4.8 stars; provides visual representations of spending, tracks subscriptions, and securely backs up data via Google Drive. 3. RunPee - Rated 4.7 stars with over 500,000 downloads; notifies users of optimal restroom break moments during movies and provides summaries of missed scenes. 4. Orbot: Tor for Android - Rated 4.0 stars; connects users to the Tor network for enhanced online privacy and allows for device-wide or app-specific encryption. 5. Libby, the Library App - Rated 4.8 stars; connects users to their local library's digital collection for borrowing eBooks and audiobooks, supports offline reading, and integrates with Kindle devices. 6. Image Toolbox - Edit & Convert - Rated 4.7 stars; offers photo editing capabilities, file format conversions, and an OCR feature for text extraction. 7. MacroDroid - Device Automation - Rated 4.4 stars; allows users to create custom automation workflows with over 80 triggers and 100 actions. 8. Hermit - Lite Apps Browser - Rated 4.6 stars; enables the creation of lightweight web-based applications with features like ad blocking and dark mode. 9. Bitwarden Password Manager - Rated 4.8 stars; provides secure password management with end-to-end encryption and syncing across devices. 10. ReadEra - Book Reader PDF EPUB - Rated 4.8 stars; supports various document formats, offers an ad-free reading experience, and includes features like bookmarks and text-to-speech.

Winsage

October 6, 2025

4 Windows Explorer add-ons that made me forget about replacing it

Windows File Explorer has limitations such as slow search capabilities and challenges with batch renaming files. Specialized add-ons can enhance its functionality. Notable add-ons include: - Peek: Allows users to preview file contents quickly by selecting a file and pressing CTRL + Spacebar. - PowerRename: Enhances batch renaming with a dialog box for finding and replacing text across multiple files, displaying a preview of new names before changes. - TeraCopy: Speeds up file transfers, allows pausing and resuming, skips corrupted files, and verifies that copied files match originals. - Listary: Improves file searching within File Explorer, providing instant results and a command bar for running applications and executing commands. - DropIt: Automates file organization through drag-and-drop by setting up rules for sorting files into designated folders and performing actions like zipping or renaming. These add-ons can improve productivity without needing to abandon File Explorer.

Winsage

October 5, 2025

3 Windows File Explorer add-ons that fix Microsoft’s biggest pain points

File Explorer has received updates, including tabs and refreshed icons, but still has a rigid layout and limited personalization options. Common tasks like batch renaming often require third-party solutions. PowerToys enhances File Explorer with features like PowerRename for advanced renaming and preview add-ons for various file types. OneCommander is an alternative to File Explorer that offers a dual-pane view, customizable themes, and additional organizational tools. The Files app provides a paid upgrade with themes, tabbed browsing, and color-coded tags for better file organization. Each tool addresses specific shortcomings of File Explorer, catering to different user needs.

Winsage

August 24, 2025

Who should consider Windows PowerToys?

Windows PowerToys is a collection of utilities for the Windows operating system, originally created for power users in the Windows 95 era and revived as an open-source project in 2019 for Windows 10 and 11. It is actively maintained by Microsoft engineers and volunteers. Key features include: - FancyZones: A window manager for creating custom snap layouts. - PowerToys Run: A launcher for quickly opening applications and files. - Keyboard Manager: Allows remapping of keys and creation of new shortcuts. - Text Extractor: Enables copying text from images or on-screen elements. - Mouse Utilities: Includes cursor highlighting and keyboard control of the mouse. PowerToys also offers File Explorer add-ons, a Color Picker, and utilities for batch renaming or resizing files. It is beneficial for users looking to streamline tasks and customize their systems, but may not be necessary for those engaged in basic computer activities. There may be a learning curve and occasional bugs due to its open-source nature.

Winsage

May 7, 2025

I ditched Windows Explorer for a terminal-first file manager, and I’m never looking back

Windows users often experience limitations with File Explorer, which can be slow and cumbersome. Yazi is an alternative file management tool built using Rust, designed for speed and reliability. It operates asynchronously, preventing freezes and inefficiencies, and features a minimalist terminal interface for efficient file management. Yazi is accessible for both power users and beginners, allowing navigation with arrow keys and mouse interactions. It includes advanced features such as batch renaming, multi-tab support, and scrollable previews for various file types. The command-line tool “ya” enhances plugin management and customization options, allowing users to adjust appearance and functionality. Yazi is available for download on GitHub.