According to Gartner, nearly 50% of digital workers face the daily struggle of wasting time on disorganized file systems. But what if this wasn’t the case?
Presenting modern file managers: tools designed to improve your digital workspace, making navigating through your files faster and smarter.
Whether you’re juggling client briefs, managing media libraries, or coordinating team projects, these file organization software tools are here to save the day (and your sanity).
From AI-powered search to automation, this list highlights the top file managers to help you organize at work and stay productive.
What Should You Look for in File Managers?
Choosing the right file manager can dramatically impact your daily workflow and productivity. The best file managers combine intuitive design with powerful features that simplify complex file administration and help you in digital decluttering.
Here are the key features to consider:
- Search capabilities: Look for tools that offer quick file location through advanced search filters, including content-based search and metadata filtering
- Interface flexibility: Customize your view with multiple panels, tabs, and detailed file information displays to significantly improve workflow efficiency
- File operations: Seek managers that offer batch operations, advanced renaming tools, and file comparison features beyond basic copy and move functions
- Cloud integration: Use tools that integrate easily with cloud services, as modern file systems often span multiple platforms
- Security features: Ensure you have file encryption, secure deletion, and permission management to help protect sensitive data
- Format support: Look for comprehensive file format support, including preview capabilities for various document and media types
Focusing on these essential features allows you to select a file manager that meets your current needs and scales with your growing requirements. Let’s explore the top file managers that excel in these crucial areas.
Best File Managers at a Glance
Here’s the quick comparison table to get us started:
| Tool name | Key features | Best for | Pricing |
| AI-powered search, Docs & Wiki, Connected Search, Automations, Hierarchy, Cloud integrations | Teams & individuals needing project-centric file management | Free; Paid plans from $7/user/month | |
| Total Commander | Dual-pane, Queue Manager, FTP, Multi-rename, Plugin support | Power users, IT admins | €42 ($46 USD) standard; €31.50 ($34 USD) student |
| Directory Opus | Multi-pane, Visual scripting, Batch rename, Metadata filters, Image tools | Advanced Windows users, Media managers | AUD 89 ($58 USD) single; AUD 129 ($84 USD) dual |
| xplorer² | Dual-pane, Sticky Selecting, Duplicate finder, Color coding, Tabbed UI | Windows professionals, Content creators | Pro: $29.95; Ultimate: $49.95 |
| Q-Dir | Up to 4 panes, Color filters, Bookmarks, Portable, Lightweight | Users needing multi-folder views | Free |
| Double Commander | Dual-pane, Archive support, Directory sync, Plugins, Open source | Cross-platform, Open-source fans | Free |
| X-plore | Dual-pane, Cloud & network, Root access, Disk Map, Built-in viewers | Android power users | Free; Premium via donation |
| FreeCommander | Dual-pane, Portable, Batch rename, Archive, File viewer | Portable Windows file management | Free (32-bit); $10+ for 64-bit/pro |
| Explorer++ | Tabbed UI, Bookmarks, Portable, File split/merge, Open source | Lightweight Windows file management | Free |
| Files | Modern UI, Cloud integration, Tabs, Tagging, Previews | Windows users wanting modern design | Free |
| Dolphin | Split view, Tabs, Custom actions, Semantic search, Linux-first | Linux (KDE) users | Free |
| Windows File Manager | Dual-pane, Lightweight, Classic UI, Open source | Basic Windows file management, Retro fans | Free |
The 12 Best File Managers
A file manager needs to do more than move all your files around. The best solutions combine powerful organizational capabilities with intuitive interfaces and innovative features that adapt to your work style.
These top file managers represent the cutting edge of digital organization.
1. (Best for creating, organizing, and sharing files)
is the everything app for work that combines project management, knowledge management, and chat—all powered by AI that helps you work faster and smarter.
It transforms traditional file systems through its intelligent organization and collaboration features. Think of it as your digital headquarters where files, tasks, and team collaboration seamlessly come together.
At the heart of ’s document management system lie Docs. Here, teams can collaborate on documents in real time, create nested doc hierarchies for organized knowledge bases, and embed files from Google Drive or Dropbox.
The ability to create doc templates ensures consistency, whether you’re drafting SOPs or building a company wiki.
The Hierarchy Guide provides a logical organizational structure that complements this document collaboration feature. Workspaces house your entire organization, while Spaces divide it into departments or teams.
Within each Space, Folders group related projects, Lists organize similar items, and Tasks break down specific deliverables.
This intuitive progression helps teams naturally organize their files while staying flexible enough to adapt to different workflows.
Finding files quickly becomes crucial as your workspace grows, and this is where Connected Search shines.
Forget clicking and rummaging through endless folders—whether a file is in a task comment, attached to a document, or stored in an integrated cloud service, Connected Search finds it instantly.
Better yet, it learns from your search patterns to deliver increasingly relevant results.
Brain furthers search intelligence by providing real-time answers based on the information in your workspace—whether it’s about your tasks, docs, or team.
It helps you understand and extract insights from files rather than just finding them. You can summarize document content, analyze data from integrated apps, or get quick answers across different tools integrated within your workspace.
Native Integrations with Google Drive, Dropbox, and Microsoft Office ensure your existing tools work seamlessly within this enhanced system.
Gemma Kuenzi, Art Director at Kredo Inc., highlights the incredible versatility of ’s integrations:
What’s more? Automations allow you to automate file management and free up time to focus on work that moves the needle—no coding skills needed. Set up automated file approvals, customize notifications for updates, and create task templates that organize attached files automatically using simple if-then sequences.
Best for
- Individuals and teams who want to reduce reliance on separate cloud storage or traditional file managers for files directly relevant to their work and project
Ideal use case
- Centralize all project-related files, documents, and assets (e.g., design mockups, contracts, reports, meeting notes, knowledge bases) directly within the tasks and projects they belong to
best features
- Convert documents into actionable tasks with one click to streamline project implementation
- Protect sensitive information by setting custom access permissions at the document, folder, or space level
- Track document changes with comprehensive version history and side-by-side comparisons
- Create custom document statuses to visualize content progress (draft, review, approved)
- Generate rich embeds to include videos, code blocks, and external app content within documents
- Export docs in multiple formats (PDF, Word, HTML) while maintaining formatting
Pros
- Centralize project files, documents, and communication within one platform to potentially reduce the need for multiple, disparate file storage or sharing tools
- Build flexible and powerful internal wikis, detailed meeting notes, and comprehensive knowledge bases directly within the system using Docs
- Maintain connections to popular external cloud storage services, such as Google Drive and Dropbox, to ensure broader file access and integration with existing archives
Cons
- Not designed to replace your computer’s local file explorer or dedicated cloud storage for personal files or general system-wide file organization
- Extensive features and customization, including those related to organizing attachments and documents, can be overwhelming initially
pricing
free forever
Best for personal use
Free Free
Key Features:
unlimited
Best for small teams
$7 $10
Everything in Free Forever plus:
business
Best for mid-sized teams
$12 $19
Everything in Unlimited, plus:
enterprise
Best for many large teams
Get a custom demo and see how aligns with your goals.
Everything in Business, plus:
* Prices when billed annually
The world’s most complete work AI, starting at $9 per month
Brain is a no Brainer. One AI to manage your work, at a fraction of the cost.
Try for free
ratings and reviews
- G2: 4.7/5 (9,900+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.6/5 (4,300+ reviews)
2. Total Commander
Total Commander distinguishes itself through its unique approach to bulk file operations and high-performance processing. Unlike typical file managers, it offers a military-grade Queue Manager that lets systems administrators and power users manage multiple heavy file transfers without system strain.
Its robust FTP capabilities allow for up to 10 simultaneous connections and automatic recovery of interrupted transfers, making it indispensable for managing remote servers.
The multi-rename tool transforms tedious file organization tasks into simple rule-based operations. Its modalities of large-scale file management set it apart: automated verification, integrity checks, and queued operations eliminate the need to monitor transfers manually.
These capabilities translate directly into recovered productivity hours for teams handling massive file operations daily.
Best for
- Power users, system administrators, and IT professionals who require advanced file management capabilities and prefer a keyboard-driven workflow
Ideal use case
- Perform quick and complex file operations across multiple directories and drives simultaneously using the dual-pane interface
- Handle various archive formats (ZIP, RAR, GZ, TAR, etc.) directly, allowing users to browse, extract, and create archives
Total Commander best features
- Navigate complex file structures using a dual-pane interface with tabbed browsing
- Configure background file operations with customizable transfer speed limits
- Search within PDFs and archives for text content
- Extract specific files from multiple archives simultaneously
- Compare file contents across directories to identify duplicates and differences
Pros
- Supports a vast array of plugins that extend its functionality for viewing different file types, connecting to cloud services, and managing various archives
- Enables high levels of customization, allowing users to tailor the interface, toolbar, and commands to suit their specific needs and preferences
- Processes large numbers of files and complex operations with reliable performance, making it suitable for demanding tasks
Cons
- Presents a steep learning curve for new users, particularly those unfamiliar with orthodox file managers, due to its extensive features and dated interface
- Features an outdated user interface that may appear visually unappealing or less intuitive to users accustomed to contemporary designs
- Lacks native, deep integration with modern cloud storage services (like Google Drive, OneDrive) without relying on third-party plugins, which can be less seamless
Total Commander pricing
- Student/pupil license: €31.50 (~$34 USD)
- Standard license: €42 (~$46 USD)
(Note: USD prices are approximate and may vary based on current exchange rates)
Total Commander ratings and reviews
- G2: Not enough reviews
- Capterra: Not enough reviews
🧠 Fun Fact: NASA has used customized file management systems for organizing mission-critical data during space exploration projects.
3. Directory Opus
If you’re looking for a premium file manager, look no further than Directory Opus. It completely reimagines Windows file management operations.
This powerhouse combines high-performance operations with unmatched customization, making it perfect for users who want total control over their file management experience.
The visual scripting system automates repetitive tasks without requiring coding knowledge, while smart folders automatically organize files based on customizable rules and criteria.
Built-in image processing tools handle batch conversions seamlessly, making them invaluable for managing extensive media collections. The software’s folder-specific memory retains custom views and sorting preferences, streamlining navigation through complex project structures.
Best for
- Users who work extensively with large numbers of files, archives, or need advanced features like batch renaming, synchronization, and scripting
Ideal use case
- Efficiently manage and manipulate files across multiple drives, network locations, and FTP/SFTP sites using its multi-pane and tabbed interface
- Automate repetitive file management tasks through extensive scripting capabilities and custom command creation
- Organize and process media files with built-in image conversion, metadata editing, and advanced preview features
Directory Opus best features
- Create custom toolbars with drag-and-drop command configuration
- Design comprehensive file management workflows with Explorer Replacement mode
- Set up conditional file filters based on metadata and file properties
- Process multiple file operations simultaneously through a multi-threaded architecture
- Customize viewing modes from simple lists to detailed multi-pane layouts
Pros
- Offers extreme levels of customization, allowing users to tailor the interface and functionality to precisely fit their individual workflow and preferences
- Provides a comprehensive and powerful set of file management features that significantly surpass those found in standard operating system explorers
- Features a modern and visually appealing user interface, combining advanced functionality with a more intuitive design compared to traditional orthodox file managers
Cons
- Carries a premium price tag compared to free alternatives, which might deter casual users or those with basic file management needs
- It is exclusively available on the Windows platform, limiting its use for individuals or teams operating on macOS or Linux systems
Directory Opus pricing
- Single: AUD 89 (~USD 58)
- Dual: AUD 129 (~USD 84)
- Five: AUD 249 (~USD 162)
Note: USD prices are approximate and may vary based on current exchange rates.
Directory Opus ratings and reviews
- G2: Not enough reviews
- Capterra: Not enough reviews
👀 Did You Know? Directory Opus can create virtual folders where files are grouped based on metadata rather than location, giving you new ways to organize your most critical information.
4. xplorer²
xplorer² caters to professionals who need more power than standard file explorers offer. Its dual-pane interface and advanced search capabilities are particularly useful for content creators and IT professionals.
As an advanced file manager, xplorer² bridges the gap between traditional file management and modern user experience.
What distinguishes xplorer² is its thoughtful blend of innovative features and an efficient file system. Its distinctive “Sticky Selecting” feature prevents accidental file deselection during bulk operations, while built-in duplicate file detection helps maintain disk organization.
Best for
- Windows users who desire a more powerful and efficient file manager than the built-in Explorer, without sacrificing a familiar interface
Ideal use case
- Browse and manage files across all Windows shell namespaces, including local drives, network shares, Zip folders, WebDAV, FTP, and connected devices like cameras and phones
- Perform efficient file transfers (copy, move, delete) with advanced options like overwrite control, queued operations, and error handling for robust management
xplorer² best features
- Simultaneously view and manage files across directories, enabling lightning-fast comparisons and transfers
- Toggle between modern ribbon and classic menu interfaces for a personalized file management experience
- Apply color-coding to visually categorize files, simplifying navigation and organization of digital content
- Explore directory structures quickly using Miller columns and tabbed browsing for enhanced file management
Pros
- Offers advanced file management functionalities, including powerful copy/move options, secure deletion (shred), and extensive duplicate file detection
- Supports broad shell integration, ensuring compatibility with most Windows shell extensions, virtual folders, and various cloud storage services
- Maintains a lightweight system resource footprint, ensuring quick startup and smooth performance even when handling large folders
Cons
- Some advanced features and customization options may present a learning curve for users accustomed only to basic Windows Explorer functionality
- Primarily designed for Windows, it does not offer native versions for macOS or Linux, limiting cross-platform deployment
- The “Lite” (free) version has significantly crippled features, pushing users towards the paid versions for full functionality
xplorer² pricing
- Pro: $29.95
- Ultimate: $49.95
xplorer² ratings and reviews
- G2: Not enough reviews
- Capterra: Not enough reviews
📮 Insight: 83% of knowledge workers rely primarily on email and chat for team communication. However, nearly 60% of their workday is lost switching between these tools and searching for information.
With an everything app for work like , your project management, messaging, emails, and chats all converge in one place!
5. Q-Dir (Best for multi-panel viewing)
Take a distinct approach to file management with up to four simultaneous viewing panes in Q-Dir (Quad Directory Explorer).
This free, lightweight alternative to Windows File Explorer provides a comprehensive view of multiple folders at once, perfect for users who frequently work across different directories.
What makes Q-Dir stand out is its efficient, portable Quadro-view system. The program doesn’t require installation and can run from any location, making it an excellent choice for IT professionals who move between different systems.
Best for
- Users who frequently work with multiple directories simultaneously and need to quickly compare, copy, or move files between them
Ideal use case
- Quickly identify specific file types through customizable color-coding, making visual searches more efficient in cluttered folders
- Save and instantly recall frequently used folder layouts and combinations, streamlining access to project-specific or often-accessed directories
Q-Dir best features
- Create instant folder bookmarks for rapid access to frequently used directories
- Apply color filters to files and folders, enhancing visual organization and file identification
- Display comprehensive folder size information instantly, helping manage disk space efficiently
- Bookmark frequently accessed folders for rapid directory access
- Transfer files seamlessly between panes with intuitive drag-and-drop functionality
Pros
- Facilitates extremely efficient file management by allowing simultaneous viewing and manipulation of up to four different directory locations
- Offers a lightweight and portable application that does not require installation, making it ideal for on-the-go use or minimal system impact
Cons
- Lacks some advanced features found in premium file managers, such as an integrated FTP client (though it handles FTP locations via Windows shell), advanced scripting beyond basic commands, or extensive plugin support
- May not have the same level of community support or extensive documentation as some more established commercial alternatives
Q-Dir pricing
Q-Dir ratings and reviews
- G2: Not enough reviews
- Capterra: Not enough reviews
💡 Pro Tip: For file managers with dual-pane support, assign one pane for frequently accessed directories and the other for your current tasks. This reduces navigation time and boosts efficiency.
6. Double Commander
Double Commander is an open-source solution inspired by Total Commander that brings advanced file management capabilities to Windows, Linux, and macOS.
This dual-panel file manager combines powerful command-line functionality with an accessible graphical interface, making complex file operations straightforward for users of all skill levels.
What sets Double Commander apart is its focus on practical functionality. Each menu item serves a purpose, offering direct access to advanced operations like symlink creation, bulk renaming, and file comparison—tasks typically reserved for the command line.
Best for
- Users across Windows, Linux, and macOS who prefer a free, open-source, dual-pane file manager with a highly customizable interface
Ideal use case
- Browse and manipulate various archive types (ZIP, TAR, GZ, 7Z, RAR, etc.) as if they were regular folders, allowing for direct file handling
- Compare and synchronize directories to identify differences and ensure consistency between file sets across different storage locations
Double Commander best features
- Create and manage symlinks and hard links across multiple file systems
- Extract and manage comprehensive archive formats with single-click operations
- Connect and transfer files securely using FTP, SFTP, and SSH protocols
- Execute background file operations without interrupting primary workflow tasks
- Perform full-text searches across multiple directories and file types instantly
- Edit files with a built-in syntax-highlighting text editor for quick modifications
Pros
- Integrates a comprehensive set of advanced file management features, including powerful search, multi-rename, and directory synchronization tools
- Supports Total Commander plugins, significantly extending its capabilities for archive handling, content viewing, and file system access
- Operates as free and open-source software under the GNU GPL, providing a powerful alternative without any cost
Cons
- While inspired by Total Commander, it may not yet have the full maturity or the same breadth of niche features as its long-established counterpart
- Users migrating from Windows Explorer might experience a learning curve due to the dual-pane paradigm and extensive keyboard shortcuts
Double Commander pricing
Double Commander ratings and reviews
- G2: Not enough reviews
- Capterra: Not enough reviews
7. X-plore (Best for mobile file management on Android)
Navigating extensive file directories on a phone can be particularly challenging. X-plore transforms mobile file management through its comprehensive dual-pane interface, making it a powerful tool for Android users.
This feature-rich mobile file manager, developed by Lonely Cat Games, brings desktop-level file management capabilities to smartphones and tablets.
What sets X-plore apart is its extensive functionality combined with root access capabilities.
The dual-pane tree view interface makes navigation intuitive while support for cloud services, USB OTG, and various file formats creates a complete mobile file management solution.
Best for
- Android power users who require robust control over their device’s file system, including optional root access for system-level modifications
- Explore the contents of archive files (ZIP, RAR, 7zip) as if they were regular folders, facilitating direct file extraction and manipulation
Ideal use case
- Manage files on internal storage, SD cards, USB OTG devices, and connected network drives with a familiar dual-pane interface
- Transfer files securely to and from remote servers using integrated FTP, FTPS, and SFTP protocols
X-plore best features
- Built-in viewers for images, audio, and PDF files enhance convenience and accessibility
- Cloud storage integration with Google Drive and OneDrive streamlines file management
- USB OTG support allows effortless access to external storage devices on the go
- Disk Map feature visualizes storage allocation for efficient space management
- Root access capabilities enable the exploration and modification of system files
- SSH File Transfer support facilitates secure and efficient file transfers (premium feature)
Pros
- Provides extensive support for various network protocols and popular cloud storage services, centralizing access to diverse file sources
- Includes powerful features like Disk Map, root access (for Android), and built-in viewers that enhance file management and system understanding
- Maintains a long history of development and is well-regarded in the Android community for its reliability and comprehensive feature set
Cons
- Primarily designed for Android, requiring an emulator for use on desktop operating systems (Windows/macOS), which might not offer native performance
- While the core app is free, some advanced functionalities or ad-removal might be unlocked via in-app donations or purchases
X-plore pricing
- Free
- Premium features available through donations via the Google Play Store
X-plore ratings and reviews
- G2: Not enough reviews
- Capterra: Not enough reviews
8. FreeCommander (Best for portable Windows file management)
FreeCommander offers a flexible alternative to Windows Explorer, focusing on portability and practical file-handling features.
This lightweight, portable file manager app combines essential Windows functionality with advanced features that cater to casual users and IT professionals.
FreeCommander offers true portability; the entire program can run directly from a USB stick or CD, making it perfect for users who need consistent file management capabilities across different Windows machines.
Best for
- Users who prefer a keyboard-centric approach to file management and value features like built-in viewers, archiving, and batch renaming
Ideal use case
- Organize and clean up disk space by finding duplicate files, calculating folder sizes, and securely wiping sensitive data
- Work with archives directly within the interface, allowing for easy Browse, extraction, and creation of ZIP files
FreeCommander best features
- Preview complex file types instantly using a comprehensive multi-format viewer
- Navigate beyond traditional 255-character path length limitations with ease
- Apply powerful regex-based filtering to perform advanced, precise file searches
- Organize files efficiently using a flexible dual-pane tree view interface
- Directly access hidden system folders and Windows control panel interfaces
- Easily connect and manage files across multiple mobile device platforms
- Synchronize folders efficiently across different local and network storage locations
- Recover accidentally deleted files using sophisticated integrated restoration mechanisms
Pros
- Functions as a lightweight and portable application, making it convenient for use on different computers without permanent installation
- Operates as freeware, offering robust capabilities without any cost for both personal and professional use
- Integrates a built-in file viewer and archive handling, reducing the need for external applications for common tasks
Cons
- While it supports FTP, its cloud storage integration is less native or comprehensive than some modern, paid alternatives, often requiring third-party plugins
- It is primarily developed for Windows, limiting cross-platform compatibility for users on macOS or Linux without emulation
FreeCommander pricing
- Free (32-bit version)
- Single download: $10 (64-bit version)
- One-year access: $20 (32-bit and 64-bit versions)
- Two-year access: $28 (32-bit and 64-bit versions)
FreeCommander ratings and reviews
- G2: Not enough reviews
- Capterra: Not enough reviews
9. Explorer++ (Best for lightweight file management)
If you’re a Windows user looking for a compact, efficient alternative to the default file management system, look no further than Explorer++.
This open-source alternative delivers essential file management capabilities and focuses on speed and simplicity, adding valuable features beyond Microsoft Explorer’s basic functionality.
Its tabbed interface and background processing ensure smooth operation even during intensive file operations, making it ideal for users who prefer a lightweight yet capable file manager.
Best for
- Windows users who desire a free, portable, and lightweight file manager with tabbed Browse to enhance their daily file operations
Ideal use case
- Perform advanced file operations such as splitting large files for easier transfer or merging previously split files back together
- Securely delete sensitive information by wiping the former disk space clean after file deletion
Explorer++ best features
- Implement a bookmark system for quick access to frequently used directories for enhanced efficiency
- Execute advanced file operations to enable merging and splitting of files for versatile handling
- Run the file manager directly from USB drives or other media using portable configuration options
- Customize user preferences with registry or config file storage options for convenience
Pros
- Offers full portability, allowing users to run the application directly from a USB stick without requiring any installation or leaving registry traces
- Operates as free and open-source software, making it a cost-effective yet powerful alternative for Windows users
Cons
- Its search functions are not always as robust or comprehensive as those found in some other advanced file managers
- May occasionally experience crashes, particularly when interacting with certain shell extensions or during specific operations, which can be disruptive
Explorer++ pricing
Explorer++ ratings and reviews
- G2: Not enough reviews
- Capterra: Not enough reviews
10. Files
Files reimagines Windows file management with a contemporary design and enhanced productivity features. This third-party file manager combines modern aesthetics with robust functionality, offering a fresh take on how users interact with their files and folders.
What sets Files apart is its focus on a Windows-first design philosophy while adding features missing from the native explorer. Combining cloud integration, tabbed browsing, and rich file previews creates a modern file management experience that feels natural to Windows users.
Best for
- Windows users who desire a modern, visually appealing, and feature-rich alternative to the standard Windows File Explorer
Ideal use case
- Seamlessly access and manage files stored on various cloud drives such as OneDrive, Google Drive, and iCloud directly from the file manager
- Navigate through different levels of the file system quickly using the column layout, similar to macOS Finder, for improved hierarchical Browse
Files best features
- Utilize a clean, modern interface with customizable layouts to enhance user experience and personalization
- Access built-in preview support for documents, media, and code for quick viewing without opening files
- Integrate cloud services like OneDrive, Google Drive, and iCloud to streamline file management across platforms
- Implement a custom tagging system with color coding to help organize files for easy retrieval and identification
- Take advantage of Markdown and syntax highlighting support to enhance usability for developers and writers
Pros
- Integrates seamlessly with a wide array of popular cloud storage services, centralizing access to both local and online files
- Supports file tagging and a column view, offering advanced organizational methods beyond standard file explorers
- Operates as open-source software, benefiting from community-driven development and continuous improvement
Cons
- Some users have reported performance issues, including slower loading times for folders or occasional lag compared to the native Windows File Explorer
- The application is primarily focused on the Windows platform, lacking native versions for macOS or Linux
- Certain advanced features, like QuickLook or SeerPro support, require additional third-party installations
Files pricing
Files ratings and reviews
- G2: Not enough reviews
- Capterra: Not enough reviews
11. Dolphin File Manager
The default file manager of the popular free software community KDE, Dolphin combines lightweight performance with rich customization options.
This versatile file manager efficiently navigates and manages files across various storage devices while maintaining flexibility in how users interact with their content.
What makes Dolphin stand out is its adaptable nature combined with productivity-focused features. The balance between simplicity and powerful functionality makes it ideal for Linux users who want an advanced file manager that grows with their needs.
Best for
- Linux users, particularly those on KDE Plasma, who desire a powerful, highly customizable, and user-friendly file manager with excellent network and remote access capabilities
Ideal use case
- Navigate through extensive file hierarchies and manage files efficiently using its customizable sidebar, breadcrumb navigation, and split views
Dolphin best features
- Utilize multiple view modes (grid, detailed, and tree view) to enhance navigation and file organization
- Enable split-view and tabbed browsing support for simultaneous access to multiple directories
- Access a comprehensive right-click menu with customizable actions for quick file management
- Use drag-and-drop functionality between views to simplify moving or copying files effortlessly
- Employ easy file compression and sharing options to streamline collaboration and file handling
- Customize the adaptable interface configuration to personalize your workspace according to your needs
- Connect with various storage devices (hard drives, USB, SD cards) to ensure versatility in file management
Pros
- Includes powerful search functionalities and integration with semantic desktop features like tagging and commenting for superior file organization and retrieval
- Benefits from active development as part of the KDE Applications bundle, ensuring continuous improvements, updates, and community support
Cons
- Some advanced functionalities or extensive customization options may present a learning curve for beginners, requiring time to master the full potential
- While unofficial builds for Windows exist, Dolphin is primarily designed for Linux (KDE Plasma), and its performance or stability on other operating systems might be inconsistent
Dolphin pricing
Dolphin ratings and reviews
- G2: Not enough reviews
- Capterra: Not enough reviews
12. Windows File Manager
Windows File Manager is a blast from the past. Microsoft revived it from its Windows 3.x origins and made it an open-source project on GitHub.
This classic tool caters to retro computing fans and those who appreciate the simplicity of old-school file management.
With its iconic dual-pane interface and straightforward functionality, Windows File Manager is a functional, nostalgic alternative to modern file explorers. Initially designed in the early 1990s, Windows File Manager has been modernized to work on current Windows systems.
While it may lack the flashy features of today’s tools, this basic file manager delivers solid performance for basic file operations and stands out as a window into the early days of Windows computing.
Best for
- Everyday users who require basic and intuitive tools for navigating, organizing, and managing files and folders on their local computer and network drive
Ideal use case
- Browse local hard drives, external storage devices, and network locations to locate and open files and folders
- Perform fundamental file operations such as copying, moving, deleting, renaming, and creating new folders
- Quickly access frequently used folders and recently opened files through the “Quick Access” or “Home” section
Windows File Manager best features
- Navigate and manage files across two panes, making it easier to handle operations like copying and moving files between directories
- Download and use the lightweight, open-source application easily without taxing system resources
- Copy, move, rename, and delete files efficiently and simply, just like in the early 1990s
Pros
- Offers deep integration with the Windows operating system and its services, including seamless access to OneDrive and Windows Search
- Receives continuous updates and improvements as part of the Windows operating system development cycle, including recent additions like tabs
Cons
- Lacks the sophisticated functionalities like tabbed browsing, advanced search, or cloud integration found in modern file managers
- The retro design may feel unfamiliar or outdated to users accustomed to modern file explorers
- Primarily targets enthusiasts rather than professionals who need advanced workflows
Windows File Manager pricing
Windows File Manager ratings and reviews
- G2: Not enough reviews
- Capterra: Not enough reviews
💡 Pro Tip: Pair a file manager like Windows File Manager for lightweight operations with for advanced project management to cover all your bases.
Organize Your Files Better With
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