Finder keyboard guide

How to rename files with the keyboard on Mac

Select an item in Finder and press Return to rename it. Finder can also batch rename multiple selected items from the shortcut menu. SADFinder uses Command–R for inline rename so Enter remains available for opening.

Quick answer

Rename a file in Finder

Select the item
Click it once or move the selection with the arrow keys.
Press Return
Finder turns the filename into an editable field.
Type the new name and press Return
Avoid changing the filename extension unless you intend to change how the file is identified.

Batch rename is built into Finder

Select several files, Control-click the selection, then choose Rename. Finder can replace text, add text, or apply a name format with counters.

Return is also why Windows switchers are surprised when Enter does not open a file. Finder reserves the same key for renaming instead.

Keep Enter for opening and Command-R for renaming

SADFinder uses Command–R to start inline rename. This makes the two high-frequency actions distinct: Enter opens and Command–R renames.

If you change your mind after a rename, Command–Z restores the previous name while the operation remains in the undo history.

Action	Finder	SADFinder
Rename one item	Return	Command–R
Open selected item	Command–Down Arrow	Enter
Undo rename	Command–Z	Command–Z

Native Mac reference: Apple: Rename files, folders, and disks.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Mac shortcut to rename a file?

In Finder, select the item and press Return. In SADFinder, press Command–R.

Can Finder rename multiple files at once?

Yes. Select the files, Control-click the selection, and choose Rename to replace text, add text, or create a numbered format.

Why does Enter rename instead of open on Mac?

Finder assigns Return to renaming. Apple uses Command–Down Arrow or Command–O to open the selected item.