Most Windows users would prefer to use the operating system's default file manager. However, tech-savvy users would like to try something other than the default Windows File Explorer. Although the current version of Windows File Explorer is packed with a lot of features these days, there are still some advanced features missing in the new version. This is the main reason tech geeks prefer a third-party file manager for Windows.
Although the features and functionality offered by third-party file managers may seem a little complex or even unnecessary, but once you get them, you won't want to go back to the default file manager.
We expect third-party apps to include advanced features like History, file viewer, bookmarks, double panes, advanced file search, filtered view, FTP support, folder comparison, keyboard shortcuts, and more. For your convenience, we've compiled a comprehensive list of some of the best file managers for Windows.
Directory Opus, an older file management software has a clean and intuitive user interface that allows you to choose between a single or double pane view. If you want to open multiple directories, you can easily do it through tabs.
The software also features a file tree that allows the user to easily switch between directories, so that he is able to find a specific file. However, among its main features is the search option which allows the user to search for files through directories quickly and easily. Another feature that helps you work with multiple files is the ability to add tags and descriptions to each file. You can also assign other indicators such as colors, icons, and ratings to each file, so it's convenient to find the right file.
In addition, it supports metadata, allows you to rename files in batches, built-in support for FTP which helps to upload and download files without using a third party app, support for various archive formats like Zip, RAR, etc., Uploader of integrated images and converter and so on.
Price: 30-day free trial available; The upgrade starts at $ 49
FreeCommander lives up to its name by offering its services for free. This file manager for Windows has a dual pane interface which can show two different folders at the same time. This makes it convenient to copy or move files between two different folders. You can also add folder tabs for each pane for added convenience as you browse through your data.
While simple in terms of appearance, it offers many features including file splitting and merging, checksum creation and authentication, file archive compression and decompression, batch renaming, file shredding and so on. Most importantly, this tool can also open network drives in addition to local files and folders. The only downside is that it doesn't support cloud services or OneDrive. However, in terms of functionality, it is a great alternative to the Windows file explorer.
Price: free
Total Commander is veteran file management software that uses a classic layout with two vertical panes. However, with each update it adds some advanced features like cloud support storage services and original Windows 10 features. If you want to transfer a large number of files, this is the best tool for you. You can check the progress, pause and resume transfers, and even set the speed limit.
It supports multiple archive formats like ZIP, RAR, GZ, TAR and more. It also allows you to install different types of plug-ins for file formats that are not originally supported by this tool. Besides, it also helps you compare files based on file sync, split and merge large files or content. Another option is to rename multiple files using the multi-name function at the same time.
A clean interface facilitates quick navigation, features customizable keyboard shortcuts, and a built-in file archiving tool. Its advanced search functionality is an advantage over other file managers.
Price: 30-day free trial available; Upgrade available at $ 34,5
Explorer ++ is a free and open source file manager designed for Windows that offers a great experience for Windows users. Among its many features are folder tabs, integration for OneDrive and a double pane interface to be able to browse files very easily. Additionally, you can bookmark tabs and even save a directory listing.
Its interface is customizable and the file browser allows you to use all the standard file functions which include tasks like filtering, sorting, moving, along with other cutting-edge features like splitting and combining files. What's more? It also allows you to change dates and file attributes.
The app looks more like it was designed specifically for the Windows XP platform. If for those looking for a neat interface, its interface is much cleaner than the FreeCommander. Best of all, it can be downloaded in both 32-bit and 64-bit Windows without installation problems as this file manager for Windows is only available as compact software.
Price: free and open source
While most file managers pride themselves on their dual-panel interface, Q-dir offers a four-panel interface and that's what Quad Explorer is called. The main intention of this tool is to manage multiple folders at the same time. When you look at its default interface, it looks like the developers have created a collage of the single file manager they developed.
The cool thing is that it allows you to change the number of panes and arrange them vertically and horizontally. Additionally, you can also create folder tabs in each of the panes. You can even customize it to give it a more natural look. What's more? It also allows you to save a specific arrangement to a file so that you can continue work on another system or save the state if you need to reinstall the operating system.
Price: free
One Commander is another great alternative to the native Windows file explorer and the best part is that it's completely free. It is known for its advanced and attractive interface which comes with two different themes. However, if you're looking for the dual pane view, the tool's column view should be great. Also, One Commander has tabs just like other “Commander” file managers that allow you to work with multiple directories at the same time.
Among its other features are an address bar that shows all subfolders in the existing directory (just like folder trees), a history panel on the right side of the interface that makes it easier to navigate between previous files and directories, others common features of a file manager, support for integrated preview of audio, video and text files and much more. Overall, it's a well-designed file manager in the category.
Price: free
Xplorer² is a smart and elegant file manager for Windows available in two versions. It is one of the most modern looking file managers in the category offering the choice between a ribbon interface or a more conventional menu bar.
This file manager comes with unique features which are surprisingly very useful such as the option to select multiple files at once without the risk of unintentionally deselecting them by clicking somewhere else, the option for quick identification of duplicate files and the option to color -code which makes it easier to identify files and directories at first glance.
Its default layout features two horizontal panes parallel to each other along with the usual file tree along the left of the Explorer-like interface. This can be customized enough to keep a neat arrangement, but the vertical pane seems to be a more logical choice for those looking to transfer files. The premium version is more for businesses which facilitates network distribution and priority support.
Price: 21-day free trial available; Upgrade available at $ 29,95
WinDirStat is another open source file manager for Windows specially designed to help you find out how much disk space is in use and what is being used on it. It basically helps you to view daily usage statistics and offers cleaning tools for different versions of Windows.
The app scans any selected drive or directory and then shows all files for viewing. Assigns color codes to each file type based on the space it consumes, thus allowing you to see which file is consuming the most space. For example, files that take up more space on the drive or directory will be colored blue.
The advantage is that once you have determined where the most disk space is being used, you can accordingly decide where to reduce usage and where to save. WinDirStat is packed with features that make file management easier, including a setting that automatically removes files without using the Recycle Bin. It features an easy-to-use intuitive interface and offers a quick learning curve.
Price: free and open source
It is another great file manager for Windows that offers dual pane. Among its main features are the support of the cards and the assignment of each card with a specific configuration, so that it remains the same even when the application is not running. Also, it features a folder tree on the left of the interface which makes browsing smooth.
Highlighting the path leading it to the current directory, mini tree function that allows you to navigate between previously used paths and directories, regular expression support, fuzzy matching, content search, advanced patterns or boolean logic, search function that helps to identifying duplicate files when searching in multiple locations, queuing operations to define a string of actions and execute them one after another, supporting user-defined commands and marking files or folders to organize them easily, are some of its features crucial that distinguish it among the competition.
The app's search function which can be performed directly from the address bar, however, is its main feature. It has a number of other features that you can explore.
Price: 30-day free trial available; The upgrade starts at $ 39,95
Filees & Folders Lite is made by the same developers of Torrex, the torrent client. It comes with a clean and uncluttered interface that offers a super easy way to access files and folders via the expandable navigation window located on the left side of the interface. In addition to the existing system folders, you can also add other folders by clicking the + button.
It supports FTP and OneDrive, but Dropbox, Yandex Drive or Google Drive are not supported. Best of all, you don't need a separate app to open photos and videos. It supports folder archives in multiple formats and even compress and decompress.
Also, you can choose from limited themes or arrange them using the theme available on the system. You can also set a custom wallpaper from your gallery or download a wallpaper from Binge that changes automatically at regular intervals.
Price: free
While Clover gives you the basics of Windows Explorer, it also helps you get rid of the hassles of multiple instances open at the same time. Unlike full-fledged standalone file managers, Clover is actually a nice little app that easily adds web browser-like tabs to Explorer.
It also comes with a useful bookmark bar for your most used files and folders. It's much simpler than native Windows quick access links since you don't need to scroll or merge your favorites with other directories. You can simply drag the folder to the space under the tab titles to bookmark a folder.
Price: free
A good file manager for Windows can make life a lot easier for tech geeks, so find your best from the list and sort your files easily.
