Handy File Tool2.00 Beta 2 / 1.04

Handy File Tool is a dual-pane file manager that provides you with a simple means to execute file operations rapidly by resorting to keyboard shortcuts.

Multipurpose file manager with advanced options

It lets you map network drives, use a search function with advanced filters, replace text within file names, as well as rename multiple files in bulk. The app is mostly geared toward power users.The interface is simple to navigate, split into four main areas dedicated to the browser, finder, replacer and renamer, respectively.

Dual-pane file browser with basket storage

When it comes to the browser, it's possible to open and edit files, copy or move them to other locations, delete them, or create new folders.The top part of the main frame shows shortcuts to the local drives. Any selected items can be sent to a basket, which is basically a list that can be saved to file and imported later.

Advanced file finder and renamer

The search function can be used to locate any files on the computer. You can filter results by applying a file mask, specifying a date and time range, limiting the size, and by indicating file attributes to take into account.The renaming feature works for multiple files in batch mode. You can edit just the file name or apply modifications to the extensions too, define a counter and starting digit, insert date and time stamps, or convert text to lowercase or uppercase.

Advanced text replacer

As previously mentioned, Handy File Tool features a replace function: the simple mode finds and replaces text in files, while the batch mode replaces multiple strings in files.The program can also be asked to create backup files. As for the replace method, you can swap a keyword with another one, insert a new string of characters before or after the keyword, and so on. In batch mode it's possible to select and edit pairs of text.

Evaluation and conclusion

It didn't put a strain on system performance in our tests, conducted file search jobs rapidly, and didn't hang, crash or display error messages. The only problem is the outdated interface. Other than that, Handy File Tool has some powerful features under its hood reserved for experienced users looking for a versatile file manager.