Best File Explorer Alternatives
Reviewed
The top-ranked File Explorer alternative is Files (Open Source). The best free option is Q-Dir.
File Explorer is the default file manager in Windows for browsing and managing files and folders. Users seek alternatives for tabs, dual panes, better search, and advanced file operations.
1Veteran dual-pane Windows file manager with an extensive plugin ecosystem.
3Highly customizable, powerful file manager for Windows power users.
Portable, tabbed file manager with powerful search and scripting.
One Commander
FreemiumModern Windows file manager with column and dual-pane browsing.
Quad-view file manager that shows four folders at once.
Explorer++
Open SourceLightweight open-source tabbed file explorer for Windows.
muCommander
Open SourceCross-platform, open-source dual-pane file manager written in Java.
Free cross-platform dual-pane file manager inspired by Total Commander.
Path Finder
PaidPowerful file manager for macOS with dual panes and advanced tools.
Nautilus (GNOME Files)
Open SourceDefault open-source file manager for the GNOME desktop on Linux.
Commander One
FreemiumDual-pane file manager for macOS with FTP and cloud support.
Top File Explorer alternatives compared
Files
Files is an open-source file manager for Windows that runs alongside File Explorer and uses the folders you already have. It adds tabs, a dual pane view, column view and color tags you can browse from the sidebar. It suits people who want a modern Explorer with tabs and tags.
Total Commander
Total Commander is a shareware file manager that supports every Windows version from 3.1 to 11, with a 30-day trial and a one-time licence price of 42 euros plus VAT. It shows two file windows side by side, with tabs and a quick view panel. Its mobile versions are free. It suits people who copy and move files between two folders all day.
Directory Opus
Directory Opus is a paid file manager for Windows, now at version 13, with a 30-day free trial that you can extend to 60 days by registering. It offers single or dual panes, tabs, file tagging and star ratings, and a full scripting interface for adding your own commands. It suits power users who like to customise everything.
XYplorer
XYplorer is a paid, tabbed file manager for Windows with a fully functional 30-day trial. Its licence never expires and covers all of one user's computers, and it stores settings, scripts and tags in plain, portable files. It suits people who want a portable setup they can carry between PCs.
| App | Price | Platforms | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Files | Open source; paid on Microsoft Store | Windows | A modern Explorer with tabs and tags |
| Total Commander | Shareware, 42 euros plus VAT; 30-day trial | Windows (mobile versions free) | Two-pane file copying and moving |
| Directory Opus | Paid; 30-day trial | Windows | Scripting and deep customisation |
| XYplorer | Paid, licence never expires; 30-day trial | Windows | A portable, scriptable setup |
We checked each app's official site on 6 November 2026. Files is open source, yet the Microsoft Store listing linked from its own site showed a price of $12.99, while the site also explains how to build it from the source code on GitHub.
File Explorer alternatives: FAQ
What is the best alternative to File Explorer?
Files is ranked first on this list (Open Source). The ranking combines our base score with readers' votes, so it can change.
What is the best free alternative to File Explorer?
The highest-ranked free or open-source options here are Files, Q-Dir and Explorer++.
Which File Explorer alternatives work on Mac?
muCommander, Double Commander, Path Finder and Commander One run on macOS.
Which File Explorer alternatives work on Linux?
muCommander, Double Commander and Nautilus (GNOME Files) run on Linux.
Are there File Explorer alternatives for Android?
Yes: Total Commander have Android apps.
Know a File Explorer alternative we missed? Suggest it — we review submissions before they go live.