Video Tagger vs FileBot
Video Tagger is a local-first desktop app for macOS that cleans up filenames, fetches movie & TV metadata, and writes Plex / Jellyfin / Kodi / Emby-compatible sidecar files next to your videos.
A local, lightweight alternative for macOS users.
FileBot is a powerful media-renaming tool. Video Tagger focuses on the same problem — clean filenames, metadata, and sidecars — with a different set of trade-offs.
How they compare
| Feature | Video Tagger | FileBot |
|---|---|---|
| Platform focus | macOS native | Cross-platform (Java-based) |
| Metadata source | Your own TMDB API key | Built-in or custom providers |
| Sidecar output | .nfo, poster, fanart | .nfo, artwork, subtitles |
| Undo | Persistent, batch-safe | Limited |
| Pricing | $19.90 lifetime or $9.90/year | Store purchase or donation-based |
| Java required | No | Yes |
| Cloud upload | None | None by default |
When to choose Video Tagger
- You want a native macOS app without installing Java.
- You prefer a one-time or simple annual license.
- You want persistent undo across app restarts.
- You need built-in presets for Plex, Jellyfin, Kodi, and Emby.
When FileBot may be better
- You need advanced subtitle fetching or scripting.
- You are comfortable with Java and cross-platform tools.
- You want a long-established workflow with community scripts.