Binky
Binky vs Hazel
Hazel is the grandmaster of “when this happens in this folder, do that.” Binky is for when you want the Downloads tantrum handled without writing a syllabus first.
Choose Hazel for full automation control
When you need rules across many locations, deep conditions, and integrations — and you’re fine maintaining that rule set over time.
Choose Binky for zero-setup Downloads sorting
When you want stable-file detection, typed buckets, Review for oddballs, optional Finder tags, and open source without a license fee.
| Binky | Hazel | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free (MIT) | Paid (check Noodlesoft) |
| Primary focus | Quiet one inbox with buckets + Review | Rules engine for folders across the Mac |
| Setup required | Minimal — pick watch folder | You design rules per workflow |
| Auto-sort Downloads | Yes — default type buckets | Yes — if your rules say so |
| Stable-file gate | Built in | Depends how you script rules |
| Review bucket | Yes | Roll your own |
| Optional Finder tags | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes (MIT) | No |
Stay in Hazel for the hard stuff
Pop in a Binky for the inbox
Keep Hazel where it earns its keep. Open Binky when Downloads keeps screaming and you want routing without a rule-writing session.
Not yet available · Requires macOS 14 Sonoma or later