Our verdict: TagScanner is a capable free tool for renaming and tagging a music collection in bulk. Its renamer, tag-from-filename converter and online lookup cover most clean-up jobs. The interface is crowded and the format strings take time to learn.
About TagScanner
TagScanner is developed by Sergey Serkov and has been free for both private and commercial use since version 5.0 in 2008. It edits ID3v1 and ID3v2, Vorbis comments, APEv2, WMA and MP4 (iTunes) tags in formats such as MP3, FLAC, Ogg, Opus, WavPack, AAC, WAV, AIFF and DSD.
The program is split into tools: a multi-file tag editor, a renamer that builds file and folder names from tags, a converter that reads tags from filenames, and text replacement and case conversion. It can look up album information and covers in Discogs and MusicBrainz, create playlists and export a collection list to HTML, CSV or a custom template.
What it does well
- Music renamer. Builds file and folder names from tag fields with format strings.
- Filename to tag. Reads artist, title and track numbers from existing filenames and folder names.
- Online lookup. Imports album information and cover art from Discogs and MusicBrainz.
- Bulk tag editor. Edits many files at once, including lyrics and embedded cover art.
- Export and playlists. Creates playlists and exports collection lists to HTML, CSV or custom formats.
Who it is for
Good fit
Users renaming and retagging a large music folder, and people who want a free tool also allowed at work.
Look elsewhere
People who want a simple interface or a tagger for macOS or Linux.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free for commercial use too
- Powerful renamer and filename parser
- Discogs and MusicBrainz lookup
- Portable version available
Cons
- Crowded interface
- Format strings take time to learn
- Windows only
How to install TagScanner
Download the x64 installer from xdlab.ru; portable ZIP builds and 32-bit versions are listed on the same page. Before the first bulk rename, test your format string on a copy of a few folders. Online lookups need an internet connection; everything else works offline.
Questions about TagScanner
Is TagScanner free?
Yes. It is freeware, free for both private and commercial use since version 5.0.
Can TagScanner rename files from tags?
Yes. The Music renamer builds file and folder names from tag fields using a format string you define.
