Best Free File Managers of 2025

Commander One is an all-in-one file management program for Mac. It supports dual-panel file storage. It supports Mac M1 and M2 silicon. It has a simple interface that is easy to use and productivity-driven. The app has many features that will speed up and simplify the process of working with files. It is ideal for people who work with lots of content. You can customize hotkeys, show hidden files, select files and view the entire history and your favorite files. Commander One also includes an operation queue section that allows users to see all their files being processed. It also supports archives and has a built-in viewer that can view text files of any type. With the built-in and simple to use encryption feature, users can choose to encrypt files. The terminal emulator, which comes with the application, allows you to set up specific tasks and take full control of your workflow.

Directory Opus serves as a comprehensive alternative to Windows Explorer, offering significantly greater power and features than any other file management software currently on the market. It provides options for both single and dual pane file displays along with folder trees for better navigation. The tabbed interface allows users to maintain multiple folders open simultaneously and switch between them with ease. Its distinctive Explorer Replacement mode completely substitutes Windows Explorer, enhancing user experience. Users can swiftly filter, sort, group, and search their folders to improve efficiency. Furthermore, it enables color-coding of files and the assignment of status icons, star ratings, tags, and descriptions for better organization. You can view a variety of files, including images and documents, while the image marking feature simplifies the sorting of photos. The software also supports batch renaming, complete with user-friendly keyboard macros, and allows for viewing and editing of file metadata. It is compatible with FTP as well as various archive formats such as Zip, 7Zip, and RAR. Alongside these features, it includes built-in tools for synchronization and finding duplicate files, along with the ability to calculate folder sizes and print or export folder listings. Users can queue multiple file copies to enhance performance and benefit from a fully customizable user interface, which includes options for colors, fonts, toolbars, and keyboard hotkeys, making it a versatile choice for file management. Ultimately, Directory Opus redefines how users interact with their files, streamlining processes and enhancing productivity across the board.

With Files, you can access and manage your documents regardless of their location—whether on your device, in the cloud, on an external drive, or on a file server. The Recents view showcases the files you've recently interacted with using high-definition thumbnails. Utilize the robust browse view to explore folders, categorize your documents with tags, transfer files between directories, and perform searches. Files simplifies the process of accessing iCloud Drive and various third-party cloud storage platforms, including Dropbox, Box, and OneDrive. To open a file effortlessly from anywhere, just click the Files icon located in the Dock or Home screen. You can also connect an external drive or SD card to your device to retrieve your files. Additionally, you have the option to connect to a work file server or a home PC via SMB directly through the Files app. Implement tags to effectively organize files that are stored with different cloud services and across multiple applications. For quicker access, you can pin your most frequently used folders in the Browse view. Lastly, sharing a link from the Files app allows you to grant others access to any file stored in iCloud Drive, making collaboration seamless. This comprehensive file management system offers an intuitive way to streamline your workflow and enhance productivity.

Documents is all about empowering your actions. You can download videos, read ePUBs, and open ZIP files, all while enjoying your favorite movies and editing PDFs. With Documents, you gain incredible capabilities to manage your files as you see fit. Enhance your security with the fastest VPN available, allowing you to alter your virtual location and access the music, videos, and TV shows you adore. Once activated, the VPN seamlessly integrates across all your applications. Now available on M1, Documents stands out as the premier super app for desktop, enabling you to handle everything you need without the hassle of switching between multiple applications. You can effortlessly manage files, watch videos, browse the internet, edit PDFs, and more, all within a single platform. Its robust built-in browser allows for quick downloads of MP3s, books, videos, and virtually anything else online, while private browsing features ensure your privacy is respected. Consider it a supercharged version of AirDrop, allowing you to transfer photos, documents, or entire folders to nearby iPhones or iPads instantly. Additionally, rest assured that the organization of your files will remain intact, making your experience even more user-friendly. This level of integration and functionality makes Documents an essential tool for anyone looking to streamline their file management.

Total Commander version 10.52 is a shareware file management tool compatible with various Windows operating systems, including 95 through 11 and even Windows 3.1. It features a dual-pane interface that allows users to navigate files seamlessly. The application supports multiple languages and incorporates Unicode, facilitating a broader range of file handling capabilities. Users can take advantage of an advanced search function, as well as a file comparison feature augmented with an editor for easier analysis and directory synchronization. The Quick View panel enables users to display images and videos effortlessly. Additionally, it supports various archive formats such as ZIP, 7ZIP, ARJ, LZH, RAR, UC2, TAR, GZ, CAB, and ACE, along with plugin compatibility for extended functionality. The built-in FTP client allows for secure file transfers through FTPS and supports HTTP proxies. A multi-rename tool enhances file organization, while the tabbed interface, regular expressions, and history and favorites buttons streamline navigation. Users can customize thumbnail views and columns, utilize a compare editor, and manage logs effectively. Features like enhanced overwrite dialogs, support for long file names exceeding 259 characters, and a password manager for FTP and plugins add to the program's versatility. Moreover, it includes functionalities for synchronizing empty directories, a 64-bit context menu, and a quick file filter activated by Ctrl+S. There is also the option to connect via USB using a specialized direct transfer cable, along with a partial branch view activated by Ctrl+Shift+B, showcasing numerous enhancements in FTP synchronization. Overall, Total Commander stands out as a powerful tool designed to enhance file management efficiency for its users.

FreeCommander serves as a user-friendly substitute for the default Windows file manager, enhancing your productivity during everyday tasks on the operating system. It encompasses all essential functionalities required for effective data management. You can easily transport FreeCommander by copying its installation folder to a CD or USB drive, allowing you to utilize it on different computers without hassle. The program enables you to perform file operations such as copying, moving, deleting, and renaming files and folders, employing either the traditional Windows approach or FreeCommander’s alternative methods. It also supports handling paths that exceed 255 characters, making it versatile for various tasks. With customizable file filters, including regular expressions, you can refine how files are displayed and manipulated. Accessing system folders, the control panel, the desktop, and the start menu is straightforward. Additionally, FreeCommander features a built-in file viewer that allows you to inspect files in formats like hex, binary, text, or images, and offers a thumbnail view for files within archives. Each panel can optionally display a tree view, providing a flexible layout tailored to your preferences. Moreover, you can configure nearly all available features to suit your needs, and it even supports access to mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, alongside user-defined columns for enhanced detail in your views. This robust tool truly offers a comprehensive solution for file management.

The quad-directory-explorer simplifies the management of your files and folders, available as either a traditional installation or a portable Windows application, serving as a free alternative to Microsoft’s File Explorer. It offers quick and convenient access to your hard drives, enabling advanced file management for network folders, USB drives, floppy disks, and other storage devices, making it the most sought-after tool in the file management category on Softwareok! With its unique design featuring four windows with tabs, Q-Dir displays folder sizes along with additional information, incorporates color coding for files and folders, and includes both a classic and modern address bar. The program presents a clear directory structure with visible tree branches and allows users to print what they see in the explorer views. Built on the MS Windows OS File Manager and fully supporting Unicode, Q-Dir stands out as an exceptional file management tool for Windows, employing an innovative Quadro-view technique. This versatile application provides extra features that enhance user experience, ultimately saving time by minimizing mouse clicks and reducing hand movements. Furthermore, Q-Dir can be run without installation, offering flexibility as it can be launched from any desired location, making file management even more convenient.

Tablacus Explorer, a tabbed file manager that supports add-ons, has a critical vulnerability related to script injection discovered in version 17.3.30 and earlier. If a user accesses a harmful FTP site, an arbitrary script may run, so it is crucial to update to the latest version if you're using an older one. The file manager features a multi-tab interface, add-on compatibility, and is completely portable without the need for installation. It also supports multiple languages and Unicode, while providing detailed columns for file size, labels, customizable associations, menus, keyboard shortcuts, mouse gestures, and aliases. Both 64-bit (TE64.exe/x64 Edition) and 32-bit (TE32.exe/x86 Edition) versions are available, catering to different system architectures. Tablacus Explorer enhances the traditional Windows Explorer experience, making it simpler to locate files and folders on your device, with various viewing options and detailed file information. This open-source tool is designed not only for functionality but also for user customization, allowing users to tailor their file management experience to better suit their needs.

Files by Google is a streamlined file management app designed to help users efficiently free up storage space with tailored cleanup suggestions. It allows for quick file retrieval through intuitive navigation and a robust search feature, enabling you to locate documents effortlessly. Additionally, you can share files with others offline, accelerating the process without consuming data. The app also supports data backup, allowing for more available space on your device. With a user-friendly approach, it makes clearing out unnecessary items such as photos, memes, duplicate files, and unused applications a breeze. Users can easily monitor their storage levels on both their phone and SD card, facilitating efficient file transfers. The built-in file cleaner provides further assistance in maximizing available space, ensuring clarity in what is being deleted without any hidden terms or conditions. You maintain control over your files, choosing exactly what to remove while keeping the rest intact. By utilizing Files, you can maintain sufficient memory for optimal phone performance, and it even offers a swift, secure Bluetooth option for direct Wi-Fi connections. Embracing this app can transform your device management experience, making it smoother and more efficient.

Owlfiles is a robust application designed for file management across both mobile and desktop systems. It offers the ability to access files stored not only on your macOS but also on various servers, NAS devices, and cloud storage solutions. You can stream movies and music seamlessly on your Mac while managing documents and photos directly from your server, NAS, or cloud without the need for downloads. The app supports accessing network shares on PCs and NAS using the SMB/CIFS protocol, making file retrieval straightforward. Upon setting up a new connection, Owlfiles can automatically discover servers and NAS, enhancing usability. Additionally, you can stream media from your server, NAS, or cloud directly to your Mac, creating a versatile media experience. Users can create an unlimited number of connections to their computers, NAS, and cloud storage, with the ability to sync these connections across all their devices. This syncing feature allows for easy file transfers between macOS and server/NAS/cloud storage. Owlfiles is compatible with both mobile and desktop platforms, and it includes a built-in FTP server for efficient file transfers. Users can easily transfer files between their Mac and mobile devices using a simple drag-and-drop interface, making the process intuitive and user-friendly. Overall, Owlfiles streamlines file management and enhances connectivity across various platforms.

You can now relish your day without any stress, thanks to this remarkable file manager for Windows, which serves as an excellent alternative to Windows Explorer by assisting you in managing your daily digital chaos gradually. The process of tagging and organizing files and folders on Windows has been made easier with this user-friendly and inventive file manager, making it a superb substitute for the conventional Windows Explorer. Introducing OrganizermaX, a revolutionary file manager designed specifically for Windows users who prefer to break free from the old-fashioned method of organizing files within a folder hierarchy. The complexity of locating files in such a system often leads to clutter, forcing us to leave items scattered on our desktops or in assorted download folders with the intention of sorting them out later, a task that, as we all know, frequently gets overlooked. With this in mind, we developed a straightforward yet creative solution that transforms the often tedious chore of file organization into an enjoyable experience, allowing you to reclaim control over your digital space.

GNU Midnight Commander serves as a visual file manager under the GNU General Public License, categorizing it as Free Software. This comprehensive application operates in a full-screen text mode, providing users the ability to manage files and entire directory structures by copying, moving, or deleting them, as well as searching for files and executing commands in a subshell. It also comes equipped with built-in viewers and editors for enhanced functionality. Utilizing adaptable text interfaces like Ncurses or S-Lang, Midnight Commander can be effectively employed in standard consoles, X Window terminals, SSH connections, and various remote shells. Additionally, it can operate in local consoles or terminal emulators within any graphical setting or through SSH due to its Text User Interface (TUI). It's important to note that the mailing lists on GoogleGroups are intended solely for reading Trac messages and do not serve as a suitable platform for discussing bugs or solutions related to MC. Users are encouraged to report any bugs they encounter, submit patches to relevant tickets, and review existing patches for potential improvements. Engaging with the community in this manner helps maintain the software’s quality and functionality.

X File Explorer (Xfe) serves as a file manager reminiscent of MS-Explorer or commander-style interfaces for the X window system. Its foundation is rooted in the well-known, yet no longer supported, X Win Commander, which was initially created by Maxim Baranov. The development of Xfe began in 2002 thanks to Roland Baudin, a passionate Linux user from France. You might wonder why another file manager is necessary when there are already so many great options available. While it's true that more intricate and animated file managers like Konqueror, Nautilus, or Rox offer a plethora of features, one can't ignore their substantial size and resource demands. For those who prefer working in the console, use lightweight desktops, or have older machines, these resource-intensive file managers can be impractical. Many existing file managers are also tied to specific desktop environments such as KDE, Gnome, or Xfce, which means they often bring along unnecessary bloat. In contrast, Xfe is designed to be compact and exceptionally speedy, requiring only the FOX library to operate effectively. Additionally, it can be swiftly initiated from the command line, taking mere seconds to launch, making it an ideal choice for users seeking efficiency without the frills. This emphasis on simplicity and performance makes Xfe a valuable alternative in the file manager landscape.

Ranger serves as a file manager for the console, utilizing VI key bindings to enhance user navigation. It features a sleek and minimalist curses interface that showcases the directory structure. Included is rifle, a handy file launcher adept at discerning the appropriate applications for various file types. Within the examples/ directory, numerous scripts and plugins illustrate the potential for extending ranger's functionality or integrating it with other software. Users can access these resources through the git repository. Additionally, ranger boasts UTF-8 support, provided your Python installation accommodates it, and offers a multi-column display for improved organization. It also allows for previews of chosen files or directories and supports essential file operations such as creation, permission changes, copying, and deletion. Furthermore, users can rename multiple files simultaneously, enjoy a VIM-inspired console with convenient hotkeys, and benefit from automatic file type detection that launches the correct programs. Ranger also enables changes to your shell's directory upon exiting the application and includes features like tabs, bookmarks, and mouse support to enhance the overall user experience. Overall, ranger combines efficiency with a user-friendly interface, making file management a seamless task.

Deepin File Manager is an efficient and user-friendly tool for managing files, crafted by Deepin Technology. It retains the traditional layout and functions of classic file managers while streamlining operations and incorporating a wide array of unique features. With its intuitive navigation bar, various viewing options, and sorting capabilities, users can navigate their files with remarkable efficiency. Merging traditional and modern elements, it aims to enhance the overall user experience. Deepin itself is a ready-to-use desktop operating system that is both visually appealing and user-friendly. It comes preloaded with several in-house applications that cater to your daily tasks and provide entertainment options. Installing Deepin is straightforward, and it fulfills your work requirements without needing extra system configurations or software setups. Although you have the freedom to customize Deepin to your liking, it is not a requirement since optimal settings are already configured by default to accommodate the needs of the majority of users. This combination of simplicity and functionality makes Deepin a compelling choice for both casual and professional use.

Polo is a contemporary and efficient file management application for Linux, developed using Vala, that features various layouts including single, dual, and quad panes, each capable of hosting multiple tabs. This file manager allows users to create, extract, and navigate archives seamlessly, while also offering integration with cloud storage services. Additionally, Polo facilitates the operation and management of KVM images, allows for the editing of PDF and image files, and supports booting ISO files in a KVM environment or writing them to USB drives. Each pane includes multiple tabs, and users can toggle an embedded terminal with the F4 key for enhanced functionality. When devices are connected, a popup displays them along with options for mounting and unmounting, and the application can handle LUKS encrypted devices, offering locking and unlocking capabilities. Users can browse archives like regular folders and create them in various formats, taking advantage of advanced compression settings for efficient storage. Moreover, Polo's user-friendly interface, combined with its robust features, makes it a versatile tool for both casual and advanced users looking to manage files with ease and efficiency.

Introducing Shrestha Files Pro X, a contemporary dual-pane file management solution designed for Windows 10 and 11, featuring a tabbed interface and vibrant themes that enhance your workflow. This innovative application sports a sleek and minimalist aesthetic, making it perfect for anyone eager to elevate their productivity. Available on the Microsoft Store, it seamlessly integrates with the Fluent design principles of Windows, ensuring a cohesive user experience. Users can choose between the straightforward single-pane view or the more sophisticated dual-pane setup tailored for advanced users. You can effortlessly drag and drop files or folders between tabs, and the application intelligently saves your open tabs, view preferences, and pane dimensions for future sessions. The robust search functionality allows you to locate items within your current directory and its subdirectories. Options for viewing include simple lists, detailed lists, small grids, medium grids, large grids, and tile formats. Additionally, built-in viewers for text and image files enhance usability, while the tabbed interface bears a resemblance to popular web browsers, allowing easy tab management across panes. Users can even create personalized themes, in addition to the standard colorful options provided. With its array of features, Shrestha Files Pro X stands out as an essential tool for efficient file management on your Windows device.

Experience a contemporary file explorer that redefines the capabilities of the platform. Discover a stunning design primarily optimized for Windows. Enhance your productivity by efficiently managing all your files. Navigate seamlessly between various folders using tabs, along with a plethora of additional features. Wondering about cloud file integration? With its support for tabs and diverse layouts, as well as rich file previews, this tool encompasses all the essential functionalities expected from a state-of-the-art file manager. The seamless integration with cloud services such as OneDrive, Google Drive, and iCloud empowers you to handle documents and images from the cloud straight from the convenient sidebar. You can view documents, images, and more at a glance without the need to open them. It comes equipped with support for rich previews, syntax highlighting, markdown, and even video playback, all readily available. Organize and mark your files and folders for future reference by applying colored and labeled tags for straightforward identification, while also having the option to create your own custom tags! Eliminate the hassle of numerous open windows and maintain a tidy desktop space. The file management software boasts a tabbed interface reminiscent of web browsers, complete with handy keyboard shortcuts for effortless navigation. This innovative tool not only simplifies file management but also elevates the overall user experience to new heights.

By pressing Ctrl+P, you can swiftly navigate to a directory, while fman intelligently remembers your frequently visited folders and presents them as suggestions, making the process far more efficient than the traditional method of sifting through directory structures. Additionally, fman allows for customization through its robust plugin system, enabling users to install existing plugins or create their own to share with others. Serving as a viable alternative to traditional file management tools like Windows Explorer or macOS Finder, fman simplifies the way you browse directories, transfer files, and manage external drives. This innovative approach streamlines file-related tasks, as you can simply open the source directory on one side and the target directory on the other, using a straightforward keyboard shortcut to complete the copy action. Unlike conventional file managers, fman eliminates the hassle of multiple open windows, dragging files, or following a multi-step copy/paste process, thus enhancing overall efficiency. The combination of these features makes fman an intuitive choice for anyone looking to optimize their file management experience.

Explorer++ serves as a nimble and efficient file management tool designed for Windows users. This compact file manager features tabs, bookmarks, and sophisticated file operations, significantly enhancing user productivity. However, it's important to note that the current mechanism used by Explorer++ to track changes in directories only functions within actual filesystem folders; for instance, if a new file is created in a library, Explorer++ does not register this change. Implementing a unified system to maintain data in a consistent format could bring numerous benefits. Although Explorer++ would still need to access data from the registry or an XML configuration file, particularly in the beginning, the overall procedure for loading and saving data would be streamlined. In addition, Explorer++ retrieves column results in a background thread, preventing any freezing of the application during data retrieval. Moreover, with the ability to save settings to either the registry or a config file, Explorer++ offers full portability, making it an ideal choice for users who value flexibility in their file management. This means that users can easily carry their configurations across different devices, enhancing the overall user experience.

Altap Salamander 4.0 is fully compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 10, 8.1, and 7, ensuring a smooth user experience. It supports a range of popular network protocols, including FTP, FTPS, SCP, and SFTP. The software is optimized for speed, enabling rapid navigation between directories, quick reading of directory contents, and efficient rendering of panel displays. Users have complete control over their recent history lists, benefit from an integrated password manager, and can secure sensitive files using robust encryption algorithms. The application features built-in viewers capable of instantly displaying various file formats, including text and binary files, bitmap images, and database files. Its open architecture allows users to enhance Altap Salamander with custom plugins or automate repetitive tasks using scripts in any language compatible with the Windows Script Host, such as JScript or VBScript. Additionally, it enables users to manage files stored within archives, supporting all major formats like ZIP, RAR, 7-Zip, or ISO/UDF images. This versatility makes Altap Salamander a powerful tool for both casual users and professionals alike.

TagSpaces is a cross-platform, privacy-aware file manager and browser that has some note-taking capabilities. It allows you to organize your files and folders using tags and colors. You can download it for Windows, macOS Linux and Android. The TagSpaces Web Clipper allows you to collect web pages, bookmarks and geo-coordinates as well as screenshots from the Web. The built-in Markdown editor allows you to create notes that include tables, math formulas, todo lists and diagrams. TagSpaces can be connected to any folder on your hard disk and allow you to quickly browse its contents. You can add labels also known as tags to any folder or file. In the Pro version, you can also add descriptions and geotags to files and folders. Geo-tagged files or photos can be placed on a digital map. In the Pro version you can also turn every folder into a Kanban board, which allows you to represent process with the help of cards(files) and columns(folders). Cross-references can be achieved by using tags in the folder hierarchy. You can search for files using any combination of tags with the built-in search. TagSpaces can also browse files placed on S3 compatible object storage like from Wasabi or AWS S3.

One Commander V3 is a modern file management tool for Windows 10 and Windows 11. Tabs, dual-pane browsers and column navigation are some of the features. There is also built-in preview, a theming system and color tags. It is free for home use with no ads. One Commander requires Windows 10 (or Windows 11) and the .NET 4.8 framework. Windows 10S is not supported. High-DPI screens are recommended (above 95ppi). Only Windows 10 supports the acrylic window effect. However, Mica window effect can be used in Windows 11. This program is not designed to replace the Windows File Explorer with tabs, or the MacOS Finder for Windows that has columns. It's intended to challenge the current workflows that have remained unchanged since the '90s. Your feedback is crucial and the program is evolving constantly.

FileVoyager serves as a free Orthodox file manager designed for Microsoft Windows, featuring a dual-pane interface that simplifies the movement of files and folders between different locations. This two-panel layout enhances user efficiency during file transfer operations, making it easier to manage data. The software comes equipped with an extensive array of tools and features, allowing users to navigate through disks, folders (both physical and virtual), shared drives, archives, and FTP/FTPS connections seamlessly. Users can choose from various viewing modes, such as report or thumbnail, to suit their preferences. Common file management tasks like renaming, copying, moving, linking, deleting, and recycling can be performed across different storage mediums. Additionally, FileVoyager supports packing and unpacking of numerous file formats, including ZIP, 7Zip, GZip, BZip2, XZ, Tar, and WIM, utilizing the capabilities of 7-zip. It also enables the extraction of various other formats such as ARJ, CAB, XAR, Z, RAR, LZH, LZMA, ISO, and more. Furthermore, users can play a wide range of audio and video formats through the application, leveraging installed codecs as well as integration with Windows Media Player and VLC. The software also offers functionality to compare files and folders, and it includes features for synchronizing directory contents, enhancing overall file management efficiency.

Unreal Commander is a free file management tool designed for Windows® Vista/7/8/10/11 users, featuring a dual-panel interface for enhanced navigation. It offers support for UNICODE, a robust file search function, and a multi-rename feature, alongside directory synchronization capabilities. The software is compatible with multiple archive formats, including ZIP, 7Z, RAR, CAB, WIM, TAR, GZ, TGZ, BZ2, TBZ2, LHA, and ARJ. Additionally, it includes a built-in FTP client, a thumbnail view, and folder tabs for easy organization. Users can also utilize WLX/WCX/WDX plugins, access a built-in viewer, and use a quick view function for efficiency. Network functionality and drag-and-drop support further enhance its usability, while history and hotlist features allow for quick access to frequently used files. The application supports background operations for copying, moving, and deleting files, including a secure wipe option for sensitive data. Users can customize their experience with background image support and visual styles that include color-coded file categories and customizable fonts. Unreal Commander’s extensive functionality ensures that both seasoned and new users can effectively manage their files and folders, and the recent addition of an automatic numbering mode in the file renaming dialog streamlines the process even further. Its intuitive design and comprehensive features make it a valuable asset for anyone looking to optimize their file management experience.