Metadata Stripper

Metadata Stripper is a free desktop utility for checking and cleaning metadata across image folders. It best suits creators preparing JPEG, PNG, or WebP images for publication who want to keep their originals and work offline. It is a focused privacy tool, not an editor for every image format.

Overview

Scanning reports which metadata categories each image contains without changing files. When you clean a batch, the app saves copies in a stripped/ folder beside the originals. That separation is useful when you want to inspect a batch first or retain untouched files as a fallback.

Its format coverage is specific: JPEG cleanup removes EXIF, XMP, IPTC, Photoshop data, and comments; PNG cleanup removes specified metadata chunks; and WebP cleanup removes EXIF and XMP chunks. RAW files are not supported, so photographers working with camera originals will need another tool in their workflow.

Key features

Container-level cleanup

The app says it removes metadata from the file container without changing pixel data, recompressing, or resizing images. It also preserves ICC color profiles in JPEG, PNG, and WebP files. That combination suits creators who want to strip embedded information without changing image dimensions or visual content.

Batch processing and privacy

Folder scanning and batch cleanup make it practical to prepare multiple images together. After installation, the app runs offline, keeping images on the user's machine rather than sending them through an online service.

Platform warning

Metadata Stripper runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows. The maker warns that macOS Gatekeeper or Windows SmartScreen may display a standard warning because code-signing is not set up for the project. That may add a step for users who expect signed desktop software.

Pricing

The Free plan costs free and is described as free and open-source. It includes the native desktop app and support for JPEG, PNG, and WebP images. There is no paid tier to weigh against it; the principal trade-off is format coverage, especially the lack of RAW support.

Platforms

Native desktop versions are available for Linux, macOS, and Windows. Since the app works offline after installation, it is suited to local image workflows, including situations where keeping files on-device matters.

Who it's for

Creators publishing thumbnails, behind-the-scenes photos, or marketplace listings can use it as a pre-publication privacy step. It is also a fit for anyone who wants a batch report before cleaning and wants original images left intact. Choose a different tool if you need RAW support or broader metadata editing rather than removal.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Scans without modifying files, then writes cleaned copies beside the originals, making review and recovery straightforward.
• Pros: Batch processing, offline operation, and preserved ICC profiles suit local publishing workflows.
• Pros: Free and open-source, with desktop support across Linux, macOS, and Windows.
• Cons: No RAW support, which rules it out for workflows centered on camera originals.
• Cons: Metadata removal differs by format; PNG cleanup covers specified chunks rather than the JPEG and WebP categories.
• Cons: The code-signing warning on macOS and Windows may require users to respond to an operating-system prompt.

Alternatives

For a broader set of options, browse Photo Metadata Editors. ExifTool is a free alternative with Linux, macOS, Windows, API, and self-hosted platforms. ExifCleaner is another free desktop option for Linux, macOS, and Windows. Photini is free software for Linux, macOS, and Windows. Exif Pilot offers a free Basic EXIF editor on Windows, with a freemium model. ExiFox is a free macOS option. GeoSetter is free for Windows with no usage restrictions. MetaFix: EXIF Editor is an Android freemium option whose free plan has basic single-photo editing, banner ads, and a daily edit limit.

Verdict

Choose Metadata Stripper if you publish JPEG, PNG, or WebP images and want an offline batch cleaner that preserves originals and color profiles. Its clear format limits are the main reason to look elsewhere: RAW files are out, and the tool is built for stripping metadata rather than general editing.