FileWorks is a free, native file manager for Mac built for people who move a lot of files. It shows two panes side by side, so you can drag files between a source and a destination without digging through Finder windows. It comes with a real transfer queue, archive browsing, multi-rename, and checksum tools, all in one lean app with no trial or nag screens.

Key Features

• Dual-Pane Layout: See a source and destination side by side, or hide the second pane if you only need one.
• Real Transfer Queue: Jobs run one after another with progress, speed, and time remaining shown, and failed jobs stay visible until you have seen them.
• Browse Archives Like Folders: Open ZIP, 7z, tar, rar, and iso files as if they were folders, pack new archives with a password, and verify entries one by one.
• Multi-Rename with Live Preview: Rename many files at once using patterns, counters, dates, and search and replace, with a live preview that blocks any naming clash before it happens.
• Checksums Built In: Use SHA-256 checksums to check if a copy arrived intact, if you already have a file twice, or if a download is genuine.
• Real Finder Tags: FileWorks uses the same colored tags as Finder, written into the file itself, so they show up system-wide in Spotlight.
• Custom Tools: Turn any app, script, shell command, or Shortcut into a button in FileWorks, with placeholders and safe quoting handled for you.
• Keyboard-Friendly: Switch panes, mark files, and jump to any drive using keyboard shortcuts, so you rarely need the mouse.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is FileWorks free?

Yes. FileWorks is completely free, with no trial period and no features locked behind a paywall.

What macOS version does FileWorks need?

FileWorks requires macOS 26 or later.

Does FileWorks send my files or data anywhere?

No. FileWorks has no account, no analytics, and no cloud backend. Your files and configuration stay on your Mac.

Is FileWorks notarized by Apple?

Yes. Every release of FileWorks is checked by Apple for known malicious software before it is distributed.

Can FileWorks handle cloud-only files?

Yes. If a file is cloud-only, FileWorks downloads it as part of the transfer job, so you always get a full copy instead of an empty placeholder.

Does FileWorks support multiple languages?

Yes. The app and its manual are available in English and German.

What is the Drop Shelf?

The Drop Shelf lets you park files from anywhere in the sidebar, then drag the whole collection out at once, or save it for your next destination.