Finder not limiting searches to current folder despite having selected that preference

[zeppo2]

Since I upgraded from High Sierra to Catalina, Finder is not limiting searches on my external drives to current folder despite having selected that preference. I tested two different external MyPassport drives. Even though I am in a specific folder and the status bar at the top of the window has that foldername highlighted, the search results are from the entire external drive. I use search all the time and have never had this problem.

It didn't have this problem with a thumbdrive I tested.

Anyone know what's up?

Thanks

 

[alexprice]

If you create a new user in addition to your existing user on your Mac, then log in to it. Are you able to replicate the same issue or does it work as expected?

 

[zeppo2]

I enabled Guest User (which I always have disabled) and logged in using it and the problems still exists.

 

[hobowankenobi]

Could be that your Spotlight index needs to be rebuilt. Info here.

 

[zeppo2]

When I use the search window in Finder, is that the same as using Spotlight?

 

[hobowankenobi]

When I use the search window in Finder, is that the same as using Spotlight?

My understanding is yes, it is. Let's see if others have more info. FYI, there has been a long-standing dislike of how finds work (...or don't work) over the years. Enough that there are third-party tools out there to replace or supplement the Finder.