Alternatives to Hazel
A macOS app that watches folders and files documents automatically according to rules you create. The listings below can replace it for an important use case. Each note says what changes if you switch.
The original
Hazel
A macOS app that watches folders and files documents automatically according to rules you create.
Replacements
Listings that take over the same core job as Hazel.
File Juggler
A Windows app that automatically moves, renames and sorts files according to rules you set.
File Juggler brings the same rule-based filing of documents and downloads to Windows instead of macOS, and is paid after a 30-day trial.
organize
A command-line tool that automatically sorts, moves and renames files according to YAML rules.
organize is a free, open-source command-line tool where filing rules are written by hand in a YAML file, with no graphical interface.
Keyboard Maestro
Visual macro builder for automating apps, files, and workflows on macOS.
Keyboard Maestro is a paid macOS visual macro builder that can react to many system events, so file handling becomes one part of broader app and workflow automation rather than dedicated folder rules.
Also worth comparing
These listings name Hazel as their own alternative, so the relationship runs both ways.
AppCleaner
Thoroughly uninstalls Mac apps by removing associated caches and preferences too.
Hazel includes App Sweep to remove leftover support files from deleted apps, alongside rule-based folder filing, but it is paid software.
Automator
The macOS app for building workflows that automate repetitive tasks on a Mac.
Hazel is paid and focuses on rule-based file filing by watching folders, running automatically instead of workflows you start by hand.
Pearcleaner
A free, source-available macOS app uninstaller that finds and removes leftover files.
Hazel is paid folder automation software whose App Sweep feature removes leftover support files from deleted apps, alongside rule-based file filing.
Similar software
Related functionality, not a direct replacement.
Apple Shortcuts
Apple's built-in drag-and-drop automation app for Mac, iPhone, and iPad.
FileBot
A tool that renames and organizes movie, TV and anime files and fetches subtitles and artwork.
Watchman
A file-watching service that records changes in directory trees and triggers commands when files change.
XnConvert
A cross-platform batch image converter that resizes, edits and converts photos in bulk.
Lingon
A macOS app for scheduling apps, scripts, shortcuts and commands to run at set times or at login.
