Overview

HoudahSpot is an advanced file search tool to extend the functionality already present with the Spotlight app that is standard with Mac systems.

The software can search for files by name, author, recipient, pixel count, type of content, text contained within the file and several other methods. Several search criteria can be used in conjunction in order to provide a kind of filter. A search can be narrowed down to a specific storage medium and folder to make the search perform more quickly (while ignoring other folders or sub folders that are not relevant).

Preview files to see what they look like and to check whether the application has indeed found the file that the user was looking for. A file can be opened to check it while the search function continues to see if there is another possibly-suitable match after the one that has already been found.

Create custom columns with the search results list in order to provide only the type of information that can help to narrow down and filter out unwanted results.

The useful Info Panel provides a quick snapshot of a file that has been found. It includes an information screen, a quick look screen and a text preview screen.

The software also comes with a set of search templates. The user can also create their own custom templates and save them for future use.

Installation

The package is available as either a trial version or a full purchased package. It installed without issue and contained no unwanted extra software either.

HoudahSpot requires Mac OS X 10.10 Yosemite with Spotlight enabled.

Interface

The interface with HoudahSpot uses some nice coloring to make combo boxes, text and other information stand out individually. The user interface has many options, but it is not likely that the user of this power search tool will feel overwhelmed.

Pros

• Perform advanced searches using one or more criteria
• Use filters to narrow down the results
• Create custom columns for search results which can present just the information wanted about the files located
• Search templates included
• Create custom templates that can be saved for future use
• Preview file contents or open files to view or hear them
• Search within specific folders while ignore other folders or sub folders
• Copy search results to a tab delimited text format

Cons

• None.

Conclusion

HoudahSpot is an excellent, advanced search tool for the Mac that brings file location to an art-form. Search inside files for specific textual content, check file names, file types, creation dates and so much more.