A file manager for Android is necessary to manage files and folders on a mobile device: smartphone or tablet. With the help of a file manager (explorer, file manager), all necessary actions are performed with files on a device running the Android operating system.
Any file manager for Android should be able to perform all basic actions: creating, copying, deleting, renaming, moving files and folders on the device. Depending on the level of its capabilities, the file manager may have advanced functionality necessary to perform some operations with files: editing system files (for this you need to obtain Root rights on the device), working with archives, multimedia files (video, audio, photo) , exchanging files between a mobile device and a PC over a local network, exchanging files via cloud storage, transferring files over the Internet using various network protocols, etc.
The system file manager does not always satisfy users with its capabilities. In this article, we will try to choose the best file manager for Android.
I reviewed file managers for Android in Russian, completely free, or having the basic necessary functionality in the free version, if there is a paid option. Therefore, this article does not include some popular programs: Solid Explorer, Root Explorer, etc.
Let's figure out which file manager is best for Android. In fact, it is not possible to choose the best file manager for Android in Russian due to the fact that users have different requirements for the program for working with files.
Some users require maximum functionality, while the majority will be satisfied with the most common and popular functions of the application. Therefore, the choice of each user will correspond to the needs of a particular person.
When choosing a suitable file manager, pay attention to the functionality of the application that you will need when using it, read reviews, and evaluate the ease of working with the program based on your impressions. Try several programs and then make your choice based on your preferences and the ease of use of a particular file manager.
Solid Explorer
Solid Explorer has all the important features we expect from a file manager. I’ll say right away that the program has a 14-day period, after which it must be purchased. But I highly recommend trying it.
Solid Explorer is a two-panel file manager with a beautiful design and tons of features. The program works with files just like any file manager, but also supports third-party plugins. Because of them, Solid Explorer can be fully upgraded, connect various file viewers, cloud storage and much more. The program can also be customized in your own way and there is support for themes.
FreeCommander
FreeCommander is a free, powerful two-panel (horizontal or vertical panel) file manager. The program supports multiple tabs, but can also work in single-pane mode.
FreeCommander can work with archives, check file checksums, compare and synchronize directories, perform quick searches, the application has a built-in DOS command console, supports group renaming of files, permanent deletion of files, taking screenshots and much more.
The FreeCommander program was created by a developer from Poland - Marek Jasinski, the application works in Russian.
Astro File Manager
Astro File Manager seems quite simple, which makes it a good option for those who don't want to bother with various settings and other intricacies.
The program has all the basic functions that other file managers also have: it supports local files and cloud storage, compresses and extracts files. The program can also help you free up space on your smartphone by identifying which files and apps are taking up the most space. You'll also be shown apps you haven't used in a while, as well as large videos.
ES Explorer
ES File Explorer is perhaps the most popular utility of this kind (more than 50 million downloads from the Play Market and 1 million 200 thousand ratings), which, in general, is not surprising - a user-friendly interface, pleasant appearance and functionality, which will suit almost any Android device user.
So, it can copy/move and delete files, unpack archives, display thumbnails of images, play music and videos, edit text files, launch the installation of apk files, can work with both local files and folders and network ones - via FTP and Samba . The user can gain remote access to the device from his PC (to do this, you need to enable the appropriate mode in the utility and enter the suggested address on your PC in any FTP client).
In addition, ES Explorer can work with cloud services - Dropbox, Box, OneDrive, GDrive, SugarSync, Yandex, etc. are supported. Among the additional utilities, there is a boot manager, an optional task manager and a “phone accelerator” (needs to be installed separately), an analyzer of the contents of internal memory, for devices with root access there is a Root Explorer module with access to all files and folders without exception.
A system of removable skins is supported (also downloaded separately), various types of presentation of folder contents (large/small icons, list, etc.). The application is completely free and does not show ads.
File Manager
An excellent alternative file manager for Android. Thanks to its simple interface, it is very easy to use. You can easily manage various file storages on your phone, NAS (Network Attached Storage) and cloud storages. In addition, immediately after opening the application, you can get information about how many files and programs are on your phone.
File Manager supports basic file management actions (open, search, directory navigation, copy and paste, cut, delete, rename, compress, decompress, transfer, download, bookmark and organize) for various file formats including media and apk.
The application has support for cloud storage, an application manager, access to phone files from a PC (via FTP) and much more.
A Guide to File Managers for Android, Part 1
Mobile file managers today do an excellent job with basic responsibilities. In addition to data management functions (copying, moving, deleting, archiving, etc.), their tools very often include working with various protocols and viewing multimedia and documents.
Among mobile managers there are both programs focused on file operations and more integrated solutions - with support for cloud services, network protocols, file systems and several options for synchronizing with a PC.
With that said, the review consists of the following aspects:
- Interface and navigation: composition of the toolbar, history, bookmarks, setting up the start page
- Available file operations, working with archives, the ability to root access to the file system
- Built-in media and document viewers
- Support for network protocols and services
- Additional tools
Review participants:
- Total Commander
- ES Explorer
- X-plore File Manager
- FX File Explorer
- File Manager
Total Commander
Google Play home page
The desktop version of Total Commander is quite popular, so it does not need any special introduction. In this case, there is no particular point in looking for similarities with a mobile application, especially since there are not so many of them.
A two-panel mode is available in the mobile manager. Here it is optional and disabled initially. The main page contains the main sections: file system root, photos, downloads, SD card. In Total Commander you cannot reorganize your workspace in the same way as other managers, such as in ES Explorer (see below).
In general, the interface is static: there are no display modes, sliding panels, switching between windows, etc. The visual component of the application is ascetic; you can only change the font settings and color. In return, the user receives productivity and excellent operating speed, ease of navigation. File operations can involve drag-and-drop, and directory history and bookmarks are provided for quick navigation, similar to the desktop version.
To manage data, there is a bottom panel where basic operations are available, such as copying, moving, deleting, zip archiving, and selecting files by mask. If necessary, additional elements can also be added to this panel: user directories, internal commands, and shell commands.
A built-in editor is used to view documents, and a lightweight player with support for standard Android formats is used for multimedia. Image previews in TC are shown without problems, but to display them full screen you need to specify an external application.
In terms of support for protocols and services, Total Commander does not particularly stand out. Among the built-in tools, we can note the ability to transfer files via Bluetooth (OBEX) and local network support. Protocols such as WebDAV and FTP are available for transfer after installing plugins.
Summary
. Total Commander is a fast and stable manager with an emphasis on local file operations and a simple interface. The two-panel mode is a separate plus, although some users will find the multi-window manager more convenient. Works with older firmware versions (1.6 and higher). Supports multiple network protocols, viewing multimedia formats (except images).
[−] Lack of an image viewer [−] No support for cloud storage [+] Availability of a two-panel mode [+] Speed of operation
ES Explorer
Google Play home page
ES Explorer is a single-panel file manager with support for cloud services, transfer protocols and the ability to view multimedia.
The ES Explorer address bar is used for navigation; clicking on it opens the navigation history. On the left side of the screen there is a quick access panel, necessary for navigating through bookmarks, library and online sources. There are also additional tools here: application manager, task manager, SD card analyzer, remote manager and others.
The bottom panel of the application is focused on various file operations; it cannot be customized at your discretion. The developers abandoned the usual context menu. At the same time, it is convenient to manage data; file operations “copy/cut/delete” are always at hand.
Using the bottom panel, you can change the size and layout of the list, switching windows is available, which is very convenient for file operations and working with multiple sources. In addition to multi-selection, gestures are supported - they are defined in the quick access settings.
ES Explorer has a built-in player for opening audio and video. Previews and full-screen viewing of images are available. The text editor works with some office formats, including OpenOffice documents.
To transfer data to ES Explorer, the network protocols FTP, WebDAV and the Samba file system are used. In addition, data can be sent to the cloud (Dropbox, Yandex.Disk, Google Drive, SkyDrive, Amazon S3, Box, etc.), which, in principle, is what WebDAV implies.
As already mentioned, the functionality of the manager is complemented by applications that are available in the “Tools” section of the left panel. Some of them duplicate system ones: application manager, task manager, etc. The SDCard analyzer, a tool also found in other managers, is necessary to analyze the occupied disk space. Remote access will be useful when exchanging files between a mobile device and a computer via Wi-Fi. In addition, you can transfer data via Bluetooth directly in the file browser.
Summary
. ES Explorer will be useful not only as a local file manager. It is notable for its support of network protocols, cloud hosting and the ability to exchange data between PCs and mobile platforms. A big plus is full support for media and office document formats. All these functions are offered free of charge and, as will be seen later in the guide, such functionality is more typical for paid solutions.
[+] Internal viewing of documents and multimedia [+] Support for network technologies [+] Easy navigation
X-plore File Manager
Google Play home page
X-plore File Manager is a file manager with support for various protocols and services and built-in media viewing.
The X-plore start page contains key sections: access to network and cloud storage, main memory, SD card and, optionally, to protected system files (root). It should be noted that some network options can only be used when purchasing the full version of the program. This includes file transfer via Wi-Fi, synchronization with a PC via browser, SSH.
The first thing that is emphasized is the tree-like display of data, which is not the most familiar mobile option, but quite convenient to use. When moving to the next level, the tree expands, allowing you to trace the full path from the very beginning of the hierarchy. The only point that causes inconvenience is the high density of elements. In this case, in the settings you can change the settings for the height of elements and fonts.
File operations - deleting, copying, moving, archiving, unpacking and others - are available through the context menu. The customizable sidebar is designed to provide access to the main functions and partially duplicates the context menu.
Quick access is provided through favorites or history. Switching panels allows you to quickly navigate to data from online and local sources. Regarding navigation, it is also worth noting the convenient multiple selection and customizable keyboard shortcuts.
Among the additional tools, the Disk map utility should be noted. It will be useful in analyzing disk space and, consequently, for removing unnecessary data. A program manager is also available - replacing the standard utility with almost the same set of functions.
Cloud storage support is provided by Google Drive, Dropbox, Box.net, SkyDrive, Yandex.Disk and other popular services. You can share files via email, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, network, FTP or WebDAV (which can also be classified as cloud functions). Conveniently, everything you need to transfer files can be collected in one place - on the application’s home page.
X-plore displays text information, multimedia. Previews are available directly in the hierarchical display. The image gallery is quite fast, but there are some complaints: scrolling through files is inconvenient; the vertical offset should be removed.
Summary
. X-plore File Manager is a program with an interface that requires some getting used to. This is not a complaint, but a feature that not every user will like, due to the lack of other display modes. The manager is convenient when handling network protocols; several standards can be used simultaneously. X-plore also provides flexible settings and includes an additional set of system tools.
[−] Lack of alternative modes for viewing data [+] High speed [+] Support for cloud services and transmission protocols [+] Analysis of occupied space
FX File Explorer
Google Play home page
FX File Explorer is a simple file manager, a lightweight version of the FX File Explorer Plus application. The FX Plus trial mode is available for 7 days, after which you can install a paid add-on or continue using it, but with basic tools.
The FX home page provides access to bookmarks, utilities, and files. In turn, the last section allows you to work with memory card data, main memory and system data in root access mode - to obtain the latter you need to install an extension. The extended version of FX Plus also includes media management, network directories, access to cloud hosting and data transfer via Bluetooth.
The FX interface, Holo, is very convenient; its main feature is the presence of “air” between the elements. The manager supports multi-windows, allowing you to quickly switch between sections. This is what the Actions panel is for.
Similar to Total Commander, there is a split view, or combined mode, which allows you to display two working screens in one window. In this case, the arrangement of the panels is not horizontal, but vertical. Switching modes are supported, independently for each panel: in the form of a list, a grid, or in the order of occupied space (Usage). The last option is a kind of continuation of the Cleaning Tools. Usage allows you to analyze the distribution of data on disk by type.
Two more notable features relate to controls: changing the scale and highlighting an object by sliding.
FX File Explorer includes a txt/hex editor, image viewer, media and audio players. FX Plus has the ability to convert Google Docs files into Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OpenDocument, PDF and other formats.
Summary
. In terms of functionality, the free version of FX File Explorer is closest to Total Commander, since there is no support for network protocols and cloud services. The application will be useful if you only need basic file operations or to get acquainted with the advanced version of FX Plus.
[−] Low functionality [+] Convenient, spacious interface [+] Powerful archiver [+] Sophisticated navigation
File Manager
Google Play home page
File Manager is a simple one-panel manager with support for network protocols and cloud storage.
The application interface is extremely simple: it consists of a main area, with the ability to switch display (grid/list), and a top toolbar. This panel includes almost all functions, although some additional commands are found in the context menu. The disadvantages of such an organization are the following: firstly, to access the necessary buttons you have to scroll through the panel; secondly, there is no grouping of elements. On the other hand, the contents of the top panel can be changed at your discretion and minimized.
The “Many” section is intended for batch work with files. At first glance, it is difficult to determine the purpose of this button, and only as multiple selection of files becomes necessary, everything falls into place. The inconvenient thing is that there is no home page with bookmarks, although, for example, you can add shortcuts. You cannot organize your workspace for quick access to network devices and file storage.
If we talk about other aspects of the File Manager toolkit, then the situation here is more interesting. Supports file access and streaming media downloads via local network and SMB, FTP, FTPS, SFTP and WebDAV protocols. The list of cloud storages includes the traditional set (Dropbox, Box, Google Drive, SkyDrive, SugarSync, Yandex. Disk).
Multimedia features include thumbnail display for photos and videos, image gallery, SWF player. The built-in editor is used to view text files.
Summary
. The File Manager application is intuitive to use and fully functional, thanks to its wide support for protocols and cloud services. However, it is not flexible enough in navigation. Say, a sidebar (see X-plore or FX File Explorer) or gestures would be nice.
[−] Inconvenient navigation [+] Support for protocols and file storage [+] Multimedia functions, including streaming playback
MiXplorer (paid program)
Upon closer inspection, this Android Explorer application turned out to be one of the most versatile on this list. It not only offers all the basic features of a file manager. MiXplorer also opens PDF and ePub files, text documents and HTML websites in a variety of formats.
MiXplorer opens and creates archives in various formats, can access different types of file systems (which can be connected via USB OTG), and also works with network and online storage of all types.
The application is paid, but hardcore Android users consider it the best file manager.
XYplorer
XYplorer is a functional file manager designed as a replacement for Explorer. The program has two versions: the full version XYplorer Pro (paid) and the version with limited functionality XYplorer Free (free).
XYplorer supports working in an unlimited number of multi-tabs, the application has a customizable interface in single-panel or double-panel mode, many additional tools and functions are built into the program, there is a rollback of changes, viewing multimedia files, comparing and renaming files, support for scripts and batch operations, calculation and display folder size, advanced search, synchronization between directories, viewing properties and editing file tags, it is possible to assign tags and color labels to files, etc.
The developer of XYplorer is Donald Lessau, the program supports the Russian language.
Total Commander
Total Commander, the famous file manager on Windows, is also available on Android. Total on Android is not as popular as the version for Windows, but it is one of the first explorer applications on Android.
The application is old, its design is appropriate, but if you are used to using Total on Windows, then most likely you will like it. In addition to standard file management capabilities, Total Commander has support for plugins that can be used to expand the program's capabilities. For example, add cloud storage.
Root access in Android using two-panel file managers
While some file explorers have root access from the start, most do not. To gain root access using Ghost Commander (and other file browsers), you must manually enable it. To enable root, go to settings -> settings and then scroll down to the bottom of the settings menu. Select "Miscellaneous" and then select the "Automatic root" checkbox.
You will need root access to perform an action such as removing malware. Often the media cracker is located in the "system/app/" directory. However, if you delete the wrong file, your mobile phone will not boot.
Google Files
The Google Files app, formerly known as Files Go, was a simple disk cleanup program. With the updates, it also gained the ability to manage files on your phone. The application is primarily designed to clean up internal storage. Files regularly reminds you to delete unused apps, delete photos you've already saved from your device, clear your cache, or empty your downloads folder.
Despite the ability to manage files, this functionality in the application is more of an addition rather than a main feature. File management is at a basic level and you shouldn't expect more from the program. A great option for those who need a cleaning application with basic file manager capabilities for Android.
Amaze File Manager
The open source file manager Amaze has all the basic file management features. The application does not support cloud storage or even normal work with archives.
Amaze can also work with apps i.e. quickly remove multiple applications. With Amaze you can open APK files, zip archives, read databases and edit text documents. The application does not have a lot of functions, but there are still more of them than in Google Files.
Asus FM
Is it any wonder that in 2022, smartphone manufacturers themselves begin to release their own programs and applications.
So Asus introduced its own file manager, without bothering too much with the name. It's just Asus File Manager. Sometimes you come across the concept of File Explorer.
Perhaps beginners in the field of software development will not be able to do anything better than the same Total Commander. But we cannot deny the fact that the conductor from Asus turned out to be very interesting and of high quality.
The user is welcomed by a simple and intuitive interface. There is support here:
- cloud storage;
- wide list of file types;
- LAN;
- SMB;
- archiving, etc.
The application is entirely free. There are also no shopping options inside. It is obvious that Asus is not just trying to make money with this manager.
There are some disadvantages, but they are minor for many users. Here we are talking about the missing root access, as well as the fact that the developer nevertheless decided to place several advertising blocks. That's the answer to the question of how Asus plans to make money from its free file manager.
Cx Explorer
Cx Explorer is a fairly powerful file management application for Android. Using it, you can quickly access files and folders not only on the main drive, but also on the SD card or the cloud. There is a built-in application manager, shopping cart, NAS support, etc.
Cx Explorer has a nice interface and a built-in analyzer that will help you find large files on your phone.
Mi Explorer
Mi Explorer from the famous Chinese electronics manufacturer Xiaomi is a file manager for Android in Russian. The file manager is preinstalled on Xiaomi smartphones, despite this, Mi Explorer works on any phone models from different manufacturers.
The main window of the program contains buttons for accessing the most popular categories, and information about recent actions is displayed.
Mi Explorer has the following features:
- View the latest directories that were worked with on the device.
- Distribution of files into categories for easy access and management.
- Group operations with files.
- Working with APK files.
- Clearing the device of cache and unnecessary data.
- Support for ZIP and RAR archives.
- Mi Drop is a function for transferring files to another device located nearby, without the Internet turned on.
Mi Explorer is a good choice for those who need only basic functionality on their mobile device.
X-plore File Manager
A very cool and very old file manager for Android. X-plore is perfect for those who like to root their phone. This two-panel file manager, of course, looks pretty nasty, but it has a colossal range of different features.
There is support for cloud storage (Google Drive, OneDrive, Mega.co, Dropbox, Yandex.Disk, OBLAKO.mail.ru, Webdav, etc.).
Root, FTP, SMB1 / SMB2, Sqlite, Zip, Rar, 7zip, DLNA/UPnP, SSH File Transfer support. Music player, PDF viewer, root renaming and a bunch of other things. You will have to pay for this with an interface from the late 90s.
FX File Explorer
QR Code
FX File Explorer
Developer: NextApp, Inc.
Price: Free
If you want to download a file manager for Android with this name, then be prepared for the fact that it will be in English. Unfortunately, the authors of the application are not yet thinking about Russian localization. But this is not a reason to pass him by. The fact is that an excellent two-window mode is implemented here. At the same time, the interface is simplified as much as possible, so that even a beginner will not have questions.
Like many of its competitors, FX File Explorer creates thumbnails of your media files, so you don't have to rely solely on file names. The built-in archiver helps you work with files in ZIP, 7ZIP, GZIP and even RAR formats. The player should also please. A nice bonus is the HEX editor, which will be useful for application creators. The developers did not forget about a regular text editor.
It’s interesting that you can transfer files using FX File Explorer to another device not only via traditional Bluetooth, but also via Wi-Fi. If you have no problems understanding the English language, then be sure to check out this application.
Advantages:
- Plugin support.
- A simple and intuitive interface, complemented by a two-panel mode.
- Transfer files via Wi-Fi.
- Built-in archiver.
- Availability of a HEX editor.
- FTP support.
- Working with cloud storages.
- Good built-in media player.
Flaws:
- Only a trial version is available for free.
- Lack of Russian language.
Grade: 7/10
RS File Manager
RS File Manager has a standard set of tools for working with files on your phone. Files can be deleted, copied, cut and everything else that can be done in any Explorer on Android.
RS File Manager has support for cloud storage, SMB, file search, bookmark and FTP support. The application can also work with zip, 7z archives. Some users consider the program interface to be unsuccessful, but for me it’s all nitpicking.
Clear memory
The “Clear memory” service is available in the file manager. It scans your phone/tablet space for large files, duplicates, unnecessary files and unused files. And you decide which of them to delete in order to free up memory in the storage. For example, on my Samsung A5, I can free up 2.7 GB on the phone.
Next, you simply select unnecessary files with a checkmark and click “delete”.
