Alternatives to Files
Modern open source Windows file manager
Files ranks #5 of 9 in File managers, with an Alt Score of 91. It is licensed under MIT, free from $9.99 and available on Windows. 9 of 10 checklist rows are verified against a public source.
Windows users who want a more capable alternative to File Explorer, including power users and anyone who prefers open-source, community-developed software.
Files is an open-source file manager for Windows with tabbed, multi-window browsing, a file tagging system for organizing content beyond folders, and deep OS integrations. It uses a modern Fluent/WinUI interface built on the Windows App SDK, and is developed openly with features shaped by community feedback and bug reports.
Install Files from the Microsoft Store or via the classic installer (or build it from source), then use it in place of, or alongside, File Explorer to browse, tag, and manage files and folders.
Where Files stands out
Verified capabilities most alternatives don't have.
Why people leave Files
Dashed reasons are sourced facts; the rest are opinions. Vendors can dispute.
Sign in to add a reason — new reasons go through moderation before appearing.
Ranked alternatives
Ordered by Alt Score. Click any score to see the breakdown.
Feature comparison
Rows come from the File managers checklist (14 rows). Human-verified cells only. ? means the value has not been verified.
+ Add app
| File managers checklist | Files | Directory Opus | Double Commander | ForkLift | Path Finder | Total Commander |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Every fact and feature listed for Files is verified against its own pages. Each alternative is sourced on its own page.
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License MIT verified 2026-07-10
MIT License Copyright (c) 2018 - present Files Community Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy
https://github.com/files-community/Files/blob/main/LICENSE-MIT -
Starts at $9.99 verified 2026-07-10
price":9.99,"displayPrice":"$9.99""
https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9nghp3dx8hdx?hl=en-US&gl=US -
Pricing model Free verified 2026-07-10
Files is a community-driven project that depends on your support to grow and improve. Please consider purchasing Files through the Microsoft Store or supporting us on GitHub if you use the classic ins
https://files.community/download -
Platforms Windows verified 2026-07-10
description":"Windows 10 version 19041.0 or higher""
https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9nghp3dx8hdx?hl=en-US&gl=US -
Status active verified 2026-07-10
v4.2 ... Label: Latest ... Jul 6, 2026
https://github.com/files-community/Files -
Dual-pane view Yes verified 2026-07-10
Dual pane is a powerful feature that allows users to view two different locations within the same tab. This feature is ideal for comparing folder contents, transferring items between directories, or e
https://files.community/docs/features/dual-pane -
Tabs Yes verified 2026-07-10
The tabs feature in the Files app allows you to work on multiple folders simultaneously without cluttering your desktop with multiple windows.
https://files.community/docs/features/tabs -
Batch rename Yes verified 2026-07-10
Feature: Added support for bulk rename
https://github.com/files-community/Files/pull/16228 -
Archive handling Yes verified 2026-07-10
Feature: Added menu option to compress items into archive
https://github.com/files-community/Files/pull/9997 -
Cloud connections Yes verified 2026-07-10
Files integrates with various cloud providers by detecting and displaying their drives in the sidebar. These integrations require their respective clients to be installed and running on the device.
https://files.community/docs/features/cloud-drives -
Keyboard-driven Yes verified 2026-07-10
Actions are commands you can perform on items like files, folders, and images. Use the Command Palette (Ctrl + Shift + P) to view a searchable list of available actions, along with their current key b
https://files.community/docs/customize-settings/actions -
Open source Yes verified 2026-07-10
MIT License Copyright (c) 2018 - present Files Community
https://github.com/files-community/Files/blob/main/LICENSE-MIT -
One-time purchase option Yes verified 2026-07-10
isSubscription":false"
https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9nghp3dx8hdx?hl=en-US&gl=US -
Search quality Yes verified 2026-07-10
Search mode allows users to search within the current directory or across indexed content.
https://files.community/docs/features/omnibar
FAQ
Yes. Double Commander, Midnight Commander and ranger have a free tier or are fully free. Free-tier limits in the comparison table are verified and dated.
Double Commander, Midnight Commander and ranger — every license claim links its source.