File Managers Apps and Alternatives

File managers provide interaction between users and files. Windows Explorer (renamed File Explorer in Windows 10) has a graphical interface and enough options to satisfy casual PC users.

Advanced users, however, prefer additional features and enhanced usability, such as going to different locations through a tree view, dragging and dropping files in two or more panes placed side by side, or searching for files using many filters (size, date, attributes, and so on).

Besides the graphical interface, there is the command-line, text-based version, dedicated to users who prefer functionality over appearance. A popular example for this is the now deprecated Norton Commander.

File managers which offer more than Windows Explorer are appreciated because of the wide variety of file operations they provide, such as: open, edit, rename, print, burn, play, sync, move, copy, delete, pack, search or split.

In addition to interface customization for the toolbar, menu bar and other graphical elements, comprehensive file managers support plugins, enabling users to personalize the whole experience by adding extensions with a specific function.