android

10 Best File Managers for Android

In the dynamic world of smartphones, Android has established itself as a dominant player due to its versatile and user-friendly interface. One of the most important aspects of managing your Android device efficiently is handling files, organizing documents, sorting media files, and handling downloads. This is where file manager apps come into play.

These apps offer users the fastest way to move, organize, and edit files and folders on their Android devices. With so many options available on Google Play Store, finding the best file manager can be a daunting task, but we have carefully picked the 10 best file managers for Android phones and devices.

Whether you’re a casual user looking for simplicity or a proficient user looking for advanced features, you’ll find a file management app that meets your needs in this list. Join me as we take a look at the top picks that can assist you in efficiently managing files on your Android devices.

  1. Astro File Manager
  2. Files By Google
  3. Amaze File Manager
  4. Cx File Explorer
  5. MiXplorer Silver
  6. Total Commander
  7. Solid Explorer File Manager
  8. RS File Manager
  9. FX File Explorer
  10. Root Explorer

1. Astro File Manager

Astro File Manager is a versatile all-in-one app and a great choice for your Android operating system. The app offers essential features like copying, moving, and renaming and allowing users to access photos, videos, music, and documents, as well as enabling file sharing, and storage backups on phones. Moreover, the app includes a memory cleaner to free up space.

This app has been in existence since 2009 and over 1500 million users worldwide rely on Astro File Manager to organize, backup, and secure their files.  Additionally, it offers a safeguard to enable users to use Pins, passwords, or biometrics to protect confidential files on their devices.  ASTRO File Manager stands as a go-to solution for efficiently managing digital files and optimizing smartphone storage.

Key Features

  • Organize, move, copy, share, and rename files on the device’s storage, SD card, and cloud space.
  • Sort and categorize files for quick access and efficient folder management.
  • Manage images, videos, music, apps, and recent folders from the home screen.
  • Handle downloads by viewing recent files and moving them to designated folders.

Storage Cleaner:

  • Reclaim phone space with ASTRO’s intelligent Storage Cleaner.
  • Identify and delete unused apps and files to free up room for favorite apps and media.
  • Sort files by size to manage storage effectively.
  • Securely backup essential files to an SD card or cloud space for protection and accessibility.

Storage Manager:

  • Simplify cloud storage with ASTRO’s Storage Manager.
  • Manage multiple cloud accounts (Box, Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, etc.) in one user-friendly app.
  • Backup apps to an SD card for easy restoration after a factory reset or uninstallation.
  • Delete multiple apps quickly and efficiently.

File Protector:

  • Protect privacy with ASTRO’s robust File Protector.
  • Hide and lock sensitive files securely in a vault.
  • Vault protection options: PIN, password, Face recognition, or Fingerprint.
  • Customize the vault and hide it on the Home screen for discreet access

Pros

  1. The app offers a wide range of file organization and management features, including moving, copying, sharing, and categorizing files within internal storage, SD card, and cloud storage.
  2. Helps users free up storage space by offering to remove unused apps and files. Users can also sort files by size to identify items that consume space.
  3. The app allows users to back up apps to an SD Card so they can be easily restored after a factory reset. You can also bulk delete unnecessary apps.
  4. It offers strong security features like a secure vault to hide and lock your files and can be customized with a PIN, password, facial recognition, or fingerprint.
  5. It features an intuitive user interface that facilitates navigation and management of internal, external, and cloud storage.
  6. Since 2009, the app has been trusted by a large user base of over 150 million worldwide, proving its reliability and usefulness.
  7. Provide an ad-free user experience for uninterrupted use without distractions.

Cons

  1. Some features, like storage cleaning and organization, require active user engagement, and may not be suitable for users looking for fully automated management.
  2. The app may recommend the deletion of certain files or apps that users consider important, leading to accidental deletion.
  3. Although it supports major cloud services, some users may prefer broader support for a wider range of cloud storage providers.
  4. Compatibility with certain devices, operating systems, or cloud services may be limited, affecting usability for some users.
  5. As with any app that deals with sensitive data, there might be potential security vulnerabilities or concerns that could arise.

2. File By Google

The Files by Google is another great app that offers a range of features to help optimize device storage and file management. With this app, you can identify and delete unnecessary files such as old photos and duplicate files to free up storage space. The app makes it easy to quickly find and browse files, as well as find and share photos, videos, and documents.

Another great feature of this app is its “Nearby Share” which allows you to share files with other Android and Chrome devices without needing an internet connection. You can also back up your files to the cloud to protect them and save storage space on your device. For added security, users can protect sensitive files with a PIN or pattern lock separate from their device lock. The app is efficient uses less than 20MB of storage space, and displays no ads.

Key Features

  • Space Optimization.
  • Efficient File Search
  • Offline File Sharing.
  • Data Security.
  • Offline Media Playback.
  • Cloud Backup.
  • Smart Recommendations.
  • Efficiency and Simplicity

Pros

  1. The app identifies and deletes unnecessary files to effectively free up disk space.
  2. Find files more efficiently with fast search and organized browsing.
  3. Enables fast file sharing via Nearby Share without the need for an internet connection.
  4. The app provides an additional layer of security with individual PINs or patterns for file protection.
  5. Enables advanced control over offline music and video playback.
  6. Free up space on your device by easily backing up to Google Drive or an SD card
  7. Provides insightful suggestions for disk space management and device security.
  8. The app consumes minimal memory on your device, has a user-friendly interface, and contains no ads.

Cons

  1. Designed primarily for Android and Chrome devices, it limits cross-platform usage.
  2. Advanced users may find certain features lacking customizability and depth.
  3. Scanning files for recommendations may raise privacy concerns from some users.
  4. Cloud backup is mainly based on Google Drive integration.

3. Amaze File Manager

Amaze File Manager is a fantastic tool for the Android operating system. The app makes file management simple and accessible by providing essential functions such as cut, copy, delete, compress, quick access to file history and bookmarks, and easy search functionality. The app offers drag-and-drop actions and allows users to edit multiple tabs at once. The Amaze file manager tool has a navigation bar that provides users with a convenient way to easily and quickly access different page sections within the application.

Furthermore, an app manager is available for opening, backing up, and uninstalling apps. The inclusion of FTP/FTPS support enables secure file transfers between computers or systems over the network, while also offering SMB/SFTP client support. For enhanced security, the app provides AES encryption and decryption of files. Cloud services are also supported (Jellybean v4.3+), and the app includes a built-in reader for databases, ZIP/RAR files, APKs, and text files. Best of all, the app is ad-free, for a seamless user experience.

Key Features

  • Open Source, light, and smooth
  • Based on Material Design guidelines
  • Basic features like cut, copy, delete, compress, extract, etc. easily accessible
  • Work on multiple tabs at the same time, support drag/drop gestures
  • Multiple themes with cool icons
  • Navigation drawer for quick navigation
  • App Manager to open, backup, or directly uninstall any app
  • FTP / FTPS Server support
  • SMB, SFTP Client support
  • Quickly access history, access bookmarks, or search for any file
  • Root Explorer for advanced users
  • AES Encryption and Decryption of files for security (Jellybean v4.3+)
  • Cloud services support (Jellybean v4.3+ / requires additional plug-in)
  • Inbuilt Database Reader, Zip/Rar Reader, Apk Reader, Text Reader
  • No ads

Pros

  1. The app is open source and designed for a smooth user experience.
  2. The app provides basic file functions such as cut, copy, delete, compress, and extract.
  3. The app allows you to work on multiple tables simultaneously and support drag-and-drop gestures.
  4. Offers multiple themes with attractive icons for personalization.
  5. Fast navigation with a navigation bar for seamless file access.
  6. It includes an app manager to perform app-related tasks such as opening apps, backing up, uninstalling, etc.
  7. Provides FTP, FTPS, SMB, and SFTP support for seamless file transfers.
  8. Provides AES encryption and decryption for file security on compatible devices.
  9. It has built-in readers for various file types such as databases, archives, APKs, and text files.
  10. Provides an ad-free experience for users.

Cons

  • Root Explorer and advanced features might not be suitable for all users.
  • Cloud services require additional plugins on Jellybean v4.3+ devices.
  • The app relies on donations and purchasing plugins for support, so it may not be ideal for some users.

4. Cx Explorer

Cx File Explorer is a robust file manager app with an easy-to-use and intuitive interface. The app is perfect for managing files on your Android device and cloud storage. This app has several features that allow users to work with files on the connected PC. Using Cx File Explorer is similar to using Windows Explorer or Finder on your Android device. Using the app you can organize, move, copy, compress, rename, delete, and share files and folders on internal and external storage. In addition, it offers network-attached storage (NAS) functionality that provides access to cloud storage and allows remote or shared storage via protocols such as FTP, FTPS, SFTP, SMB, WebDAV, and LAN.

If looking for the best File Manager apps, you can consider using Cx File Explorer as it features a recycle bin for efficient storage management.

Key Features

  • Organize files and folders easily with a user-friendly interface.
  • Access and manage files on cloud storage.
  • Access files on Network-Attached Storage (NAS) like FTP, FTPS, SFTP, SMB, WebDAV, and LAN.
  • Connect your mobile device to a PC using FTP (File Transfer Protocol).
  • Manage installed apps on your mobile device.
  • Analyze and manage storage with visualized space analysis.
  • Utilize the Recycle bin for streamlined storage management.
  • Compatible with Android TVs, phones, and tablets.

Pros

  1. Easily organize, copy, move, and share files using a user-friendly interface. Seamlessly manage files stored in various cloud storage services.
  2. Access files on network-attached storage (NAS) using multiple protocols.
  3. The app allows you to Connect your mobile device to a computer via FTP for file transfer.
  4. Easily monitor and manage installed apps.
  5. Visualize and manage storage space effectively.
  6. Simplify storage management with the built-in Recycle Bin.
  7. Supports Android TV, mobile phones, and tablets.

Cons

  1. Depending on the user, it may take some time to get used to all the functions.
  2. Advanced NAS and FTP settings can be overwhelming for ordinary users.

5. MiXplorer Silver

Mix Silver offers Android users a versatile app package, featuring MiXplorer, an all-inclusive file manager and archiver, alongside valuable extras like an image viewer, PDF reader, and tagger, providing an enriched mobile experience. The app offers comprehensive customization, presenting a range of themes in various colors. Users can organize files and folders to suit their preferences. Additionally, you can explore HTML and font details for a more enriched experience.

However, Mix Silver supports a wide range of file formats for packing and unpacking, making it a versatile tool for handling various file types. Furthermore, it integrates with numerous cloud storage providers and supports FTP, HTTP, WebDAV, and SAMBA protocols, and allows root access for advanced operations. With a multitude of powerful features, MiX Silver is an all-in-one solution for managing and accessing files on your Android devices with many powerful features.

Key Features

  • Easily customizable and themeable with a lot of color options.
  • Ability to sort, disable, and enable menu options and action buttons.
  • Unlimited tabbed browsing and dual panel mode in landscape orientation with drag-and-drop support between panels.
  • Task creation for multitasking operations like copy, move, and more.
  • Different view modes and sorting options for each folder individually.
  • Customizable bookmarks drawer with pre-categorized essential file types.
  • Advanced search functions for efficient file searching.
  • Built-in HTML and font viewer.
  • Export and import preferences, bookmarks, and customized skins.
  • Supports packing and unpacking of various archive formats, including 7z, Zip, TAR, GZIP, and more.
  • Supports unpacking of formats like RAR, CAB, MSI, NSIS, and more.
  • Integration with various cloud storage providers, including Mega.nz, Dropbox, Google Drive, and more.
  • Modifying zip files directly from the app.
  • EPub, MobiPacket, and PDF reader add-ons.
  • Root access for advanced operations.
  • Support for EncFS volumes for all storage types.
  • File encryption and decryption using Aescrypt file format.
  • Built-in FTP/HTTP/WebDAV servers and TCP server to receive files from other devices using MiXplorer (Send-to option).
  • Image viewer with support for GIF, SVG, TGA, and ICO formats.
  • Media player with VLC codecs add-on.
  • Powerful text editor and code editor.
  • Support for various protocols like SAMBA (SMB1, SMB2.0/2.1), FTP, SFTP, and WebDAV.
  • RAW and TIFF decoder.

Pros

  1. Easily customizable and themeable interface with a wide range of color options.
  2. Ability to sort, enable, and disable menu options and action buttons for a personalized experience.
  3. Task creation for multitasking operations like copying, moving, and enhancing productivity.
  4. Built-in HTML and font viewer, ePub, MobiPacket, PDF reader, image viewer, and media player with VLC codecs add-on for comprehensive multimedia capabilities.
  5. Unlimited tabbed browsing and dual panel mode with drag-and-drop support between panels, making file management efficient.
  6. Integration with popular cloud storage providers like Mega.nz, Dropbox, Google Drive, expanding access to files.
  7. Supports various archive formats for compression and decompression, including RAR, 7z, Zip, etc.
  8. Offers file encryption and decryption using Aescrypt format to enhance data security.
  9. Built-in FTP/HTTP/WebDAV servers and support for various protocols (SAMBA, FTP, SFTP, WebDAV) for seamless networking.
  10. Powerful text and code editor, useful for viewing and editing various file types.
  11. Different view modes and sorting options for individual folders for better organization.

Cons

  1. The extensive feature set may have a learning curve for new users.
  2. The wide array of features could potentially overwhelm users looking for a simpler file management solution.
  3. Due to the many features of this app, it can be resource-intensive and perform poorly on older devices.
  4. The richness of features can overload the user interface and make navigation difficult.
  5. Some users might find the applications cluttered with features they don’t need, which can result in an unnecessarily large application size.
  6. Certain advanced features such as root access may cause compatibility issues on some devices.
  7. Providing root access and advanced operations can pose security risks if not used carefully.
  8. Some features such as ePub, MobiPacket, and PDF reader require add-ons and can complicate the user experience.

6. Total Commander

Total Commander formerly known as Windows Commander is an orthodox file manager designed for both Windows Phones and Android Phones. The app provides a range of features, including drag-and-drop support, the ability to copy and move entire subfolders, in-place renaming, directory creation, and direct file deletion (bypassing the recycle bin). It also offers support for compressing and extracting files in formats like zip and unrar. The built-in text editor allows users to edit text files directly. Other notable features include search functionality, file selection, LAN and FTP/SFTP client support, and plugins for popular cloud services such as Google Drive, Microsoft Live OneDrive, and Dropbox.

Key Features

  • Copy and Move whole subfolders.
  • Drag & Drop functionality (long press on the file icon, move icon).
  • In-place rename and directory creation.
  • Delete files and folders (no recycle bin) Properties dialog for files, ability to change permissions.
  • Built-in text editor.
  • Search function, including text search., Select and unselect groups of files.
  • Select files by tapping on their icons.
  • Select a range of files using a long tap and release on an icon.
  • Show the list of installed applications and manually backup apps (built-in plugin).
  • FTP and SFTP client functionality (plugin)., WebDAV (Web folders) support (plugin).
  • LAN access (plugin)., Cloud service plugins for Google Drive, Microsoft Live OneDrive, and Dropbox.
  • Root support for main functions (optional) Sends files via Bluetooth (OBEX) Thumbnails generated for pictures.
  • Two panels can be displayed by side or in virtual two-panel mode.
  • Bookmarks for quick access to directories.
  • Directory history for easy navigation.
  • Save files received from other apps via the share function.
  • Media player with streaming capabilities from LAN, WebDAV, and cloud plugins.
  • Configurable button bar for director changes, internal commands, app launching, and shell commands.
  • The simple help function is available in English, German, Russian, Ukrainian, and Czech languages.

Pros

  1. It offers a wide range of file management functions such as copy, move, delete, and compress/decompress functions.
  2. It supports drag and drop and facilitates file editing.
  3. Allows quick edits to files without needing to exit the app.
  4. It provides both file and text search capabilities for quick data retrieval.
  5. It enables multitasking and efficient navigation through a two-panel user interface.
  6. Plugins for popular cloud services make it easy to access files stored in the cloud.
  7. The optional root capability allows advanced users to access system folders.
  8. It features a built-in media player for streaming content from various sources.
  9. Users can customize the quick access button bar for their favorite commands.
  10. Icons are designed with text captions to assist visually impaired users.

Cons

  1. Deleted files are permanently deleted and there is no recycle bin option.
  2. Some advanced features require separate plugins and can add complexity.
  3. Root support carries potential risks such as system instability and security vulnerabilities.
  4. The extensive feature set may require time to fully grasp and utilize.
  5. It’s limited to OBEX-based Bluetooth transfers, so it may not be as seamless.
  6. Using crowdsourced translations can lead to inconsistencies.

7. Solid Explorer File Manager

Introducing Solid Explorer is the ultimate solution for precise file management and advanced archive management. This app has been crafted with great attention to detail, and to give users complete control over their digital assets. Users can navigate seamlessly between files using a dual-pane interface, making transfers between folders and drives a breeze. Data security is ensured by robust AES encryption on selected files protected by password or fingerprint. The Cloud Storage Mastery enables seamless management across platforms such as Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox.

However, users can organize their files into logical collections with great precision and avoid searching for misplaced items. Solid Explorer offers in-depth file management and archiving expertise, giving you fine-grained control.

Key Features

  • Effortless Dual Pane.
  • Advance File Security.
  • Cloud Storage Mastery
  • Meticulous Folder Arrangement.
  • Effortless Exploration.
  • Storage Insight.
  • Archive Expertise.
  • Effortless Remote Management

Pros

  1. The dual-pane interface streamlines file navigation and increases efficiency when moving files between folders and drives.
  2. The robust AES encryption and fingerprint/password protection ensure a high level of data security for your selected files.
  3. Seamless file management across multiple cloud platforms simplifies access and organization of digital assets.
  4. The precise organization of files within logical collections provides a clear and easy-to-navigate file system.
  5. The intuitive user interface lets you quickly find, delete, and share files, making your daily interactions smoother.
  6. The ability to identify and manage space-consuming items assists in optimizing device storage efficiently.
  7. Compatibility with major network protocols simplified remote file management and drag-and-drop convenience.

Cons

  1. Some users may initially find the two-pane interface overwhelming or unnecessary for their needs.
  2. Although AES encryption is secure, users must remember the password or have compatible fingerprint security devices.
  3. Depending on the user’s cloud storage preferences, the range of supported platforms may not cover the preferred options.
  4. For users who prefer a causal approach to file management, meticulous organization may seem redundant.
  5. Users used to traditional file browsers may need time to adjust to the new interface.
  6. The effectiveness of recognizing space-consuming files depends on the user’s familiarity with the interface and the desire to manage the storage.
  7. For users who rarely work with archive files, this feature may not be available, resulting in unused features.
  8. Users who do not need remote access to files may not need this feature, adding complexity to the application.

8. RS File Manager

RS File Manager is an all-in-one file manager app for Android. The app provides a free and secure way to easily manage files on Android devices. The app offers various functions such as selecting paths, cutting, copying, pasting, moving, creating, deleting, renaming, finding, sharing, sending, hiding, compressing, extracting, and marking files. Also, users can manage files on their devices and cloud storage services such as Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and Yandex. Additionally, it supports network storage such as FTP, FTPS, SFTP, WebDAV, and local network protocols such as SMB 2.0, NAS, CIFS, FTP, and HTTP. The app also includes features like disk analysis, USB OTG support, file access from a PC, file encryption, and an APK viewer. All in all, RS File Manager provides a comprehensive solution to organize and manage files on Android devices with full file management.

Key Features

  • Cloud Drive access : Google Drive™, Dropbox, OneDrive, Yandex
  • Manage your network storages : FTP, FTPS, SFTP, WebDAV
  • Local area network : SMB 2.0, NAS, CIFS, FTP, HTTP
  • Efficient file search : Search for your file immediately
  • App manager
  • Root explorer
  • Compress and Decompress : Zip, Rar, 7zip, obb
  • USB OTG
  • Access files from PC
  • Favorite and bookmark folders or files
  • Thumbnails for images and video as well as for various file types
  • View APK files as ZIP
  • Share – send files by Bluetooth, email, or whatever the device supports
  • Easily work with Zip
  • File Encryption: 128-bit encryption

Pros

  1. Users can efficiently manage storage space, identify and delete large or unnecessary files, and organize their data more effectively.
  2. Seamless integration with popular cloud storage services such as Google Drive™, Dropbox, OneDrive, and Yandex makes it easy to access and sync files across all devices.
  3. Support for various network storage protocols (FTP, FTPS, SFTP, WebDAV, SMB) provides flexibility when managing files on remote servers.
  4. Compatibility with SMB 2.0, NAS, CIFS, FTP, and HTTP protocols ensures easy access to files on local networks.
  5. Instant file search allows users to quickly find specific files, saving time and effort.
  6. The ability to manage installed applications simplifies the process of organizing and uninstalling apps.
  7. Acess to root files on rooted devices empowers advanced users to customize their device`s file system.
  8. Native support for various compression formats (Zip, Rar, 7zip, obb) streamlines the process of compressing and decompressing files.
  9. Accessing files over a USB OTG connection is useful when transferring files between devices.
  10. Seamless file access from connected PCs makes it easy to transfer files between a computer and a mobile device.
  11. The ability to favorite and bookmark folders or files improves access to frequently used data.
  12. The app creates thumbnails for images, videos and different types of files so you can quickly identify them without even opening them.
  13. APK files can be viewed as ZIP archives, simplifying app analysis and modification for advanced users.
  14. Quick sharing via Bluetooth, email, and other supported methods makes file sharing easy.
  15. Treating zip files as regular folders makes working with compressed content easier.
  16. 128-bit file encryption provides an extra layer of security for sensitive files.

Cons

  1. Reliance on third-party cloud services may be subject to privacy concerns and restrictions under the cloud provider’s terms.
  2. Working with various network storage protocols may require technical knowledge and may restrict access for non-technical users.
  3. Using the Root Explorer feature can pose risks to inexperienced users and can have unintended consequences.
  4. Certain network protocols (SMB, FTP, etc.) may have compatibility issues with certain devices or networks.
  5. Built-in app managers may lack advanced features compared to dedicated app management tools.
  6. Some features like root explorer and apk viewer are for advanced applications and may not be very relevant for casual applications.
  7. File sharing via Bluetooth or email may have size limitations and may not be suitable for very large files.
  8. File encryption improves security, but users must manage encryption keys properly to avoid data loss.
  9. The use of a less common compression format (Rar 7zip) may be unfamiliar to some users.
  10. Some features rely on network connectivity and may be limited in areas with poor or no network coverage.
  11. To access cloud drives, users must have an account with the respective cloud service.
  12. Generating thumbnails for a large number of files consumes additional device resources and can affect performance.
  13. While the tool offers to view and access files, native editing capabilities might be limited for certain file types.
  14. Handling files over USB-OTG is unfamiliar to some users and can cause usability issues.
  15. If you rely solely on cloud storage, you may need a careful backup and recovery plan to avoid data loss.
  16. File encryption cannot cover all file types, which limits its effectiveness in protecting specific data.

9. FX File Explorer

FX File Explorer is a feature-rich file management app with a material design user interface that provides a convenient way to transfer files between your device and computer. “FX Connect” for phone-to-phone transfers via SMBv2, Wi-Fi Direct, or NFC (requires FX+), “Web Access” for managing files and media via your computer’s web browser (also requires FX+) It supports various file transfer methods such as FX+).

Additionally, FX provides multiple window support, a usage view mode for analyzing folder sizes, and support for various file archive formats. Privacy is prioritized with no ads and no user activity tracking. The app includes built-in editing/viewing applets like a Text Editor, Binary Viewer, Image Viewer, Media Player, and archive creators and extractors for various formats, making it a versatile file management solution.

Key Features

  • SBMv2 Support
  • Phone-to-phone file transfer using Wi-Fi Direct
  • NFC support for connecting phones physically
  • Requires FX+ add-on
  • Transfer and manage files from a computer’s web browser
  • Drag-and-drop folders from computer to phone
  • Stream phone’s music playlists to a computer over Wi-Fi
  • Direct access to important folders, media, and cloud storage.
  • Dual-view mode to display two windows simultaneously.
  • Displays the total size and content of folders as you browse.
  • Helps manage files efficiently. Supports most file archive formats.
  • No advertisement.
  • No user activity tracking.
  • Access networked computers: FTP, SSH FTP, WebDAV, Windows Networking (SMB1 and SMB2)
  • Cloud storage connection: Google Drive, Dropbox, SugarSync, Box, SkyDrive, OwnCloud
  • Manage installed applications and browse based on permissions
  • AES-256/AES-128 encrypted zip file support
  • Browse and manage audio content by artist/album/playlist
  • Directly browse photo and video folders
  • Encrypted password keyring for network and cloud access
  • Text Editor with undo/redo, cut/paste, search, and pinch-to-zoom
  • Binary (Hex) Viewer
  • Image Viewer
  • Media Player and pop-up Audio Player
  • Archive creators and extractors: Zip, Tar, GZip, Bzip2, 7zip
  • RAR file extractor
  • Shell Script Executor

Pros

  1. Its support for the SMBv2 protocol enables seamless file sharing and access to networked computers.
  2. The feature allows easy file transfer between phones using Wi-Fi Direct and NFC, making it convenient for users to share files.
  3. This feature enables users to manage files and media from their computer’s web browser, allowing for easy drag-and-drop transfers and music streaming over Wi-Fi.
  4. The home screen provides quick access to important folders, media, and cloud storage, enhancing productivity.
  5. Fx Supports multiple windows, including a dual-view mode, allowing users to work with two windows simultaneously.
  6. This model provides insights into folder sizes and content makeup while navigating and managing files, aiding in storage management.
  7. Fx Supports various file archive supports, which can be helpful for managing compressed files.
  8. The optional add-on provides additional functionality, such as accessing networked computers, cloud storage, managing applications, and working with encrypted files.
  9. Fx includes various built-in tools for text editing, binary viewing, image, and media viewing, as well as archive creation and extraction.

Cons

  1. Certain advanced features, such as networked computer access and cloud storage connections, require purchasing the Fx+ add-on module.
  2. The NFC-based connection is limited to physical touch on the backs of phones, which might not be the most convenient method for all users.
  3. The NFC feature might not work well on all devices due to varying NFC support.
  4. While Fx has a free version, some desirable features are only accessible through the FX+ paid add-on.
  5. While Fx offers various editing/viewing tools, they might not fully replace specialized apps for certain tasks like text editing or medial playback.
  6. New users might need time to get accustomed to the app’s features and interface, especially with its numerous functionalities.

10. Root Explorer

Root Explorer is a comprehensive file manager tailored for rooted Android devices, providing access to the entire Android file system, including the elusive data folder. It offers many features such as multi-tab browsing, support for cloud storage services like Google Drive, Box, and Dropbox, as well as network (SMB) access. The app includes an SQLite database viewer, text editor, compression and extraction capabilities for various file formats, multi-select functionality, script execution, search tools, permission management, bookmarks, and more.

It supports various actions like sending files via email or Bluetooth, image thumbnail display, APK binary XML viewing, and altering file attributes. The app boasts fast and helpful customer support, and it comes with a refund policy. Recent permissions added are clarified, emphasizing user data privacy. With over 22,000 five-star ratings, Root Explorer remains a favored choice among rooted Android users seeking a robust file management solution.

Key Features

  • Ultimate file manager for root users.
  • Access to the entire Android file system, including the elusive data folder.
  • Multiple tabs for file management.
  • Support for cloud storage services: Google Drive, Box, Dropbox.
  • Network (SMB) support for remote file access.
  • SQLite database viewer.
  • Text editor.
  • Create and extract zip or tar/gzip files.
  • Extract rar archives.
  • Multi-select files and folders.
  • Execute scripts.
  • Search functionality.
  • Remount files/folders.
  • Permissions management.
  • Bookmarks for quick access to specific locations.
  • Send files via email, Bluetooth, etc.
  • Image thumbnails for visual file identification.
  • APK binary XML viewer.
  • Change file owner/group.
  • Create symbolic links.
  • “Open With” feature to choose how to open files.
  • MD5 checksum calculation for file integrity.
  • Create shortcuts for quick access.
  • Fast and friendly support via email.
  • Refund policy: If not satisfied, refund within 24 hours of purchase.
  • Respect for the old 24-hour refund policy.
  • New permissions explained

Pros

  1. Root Explorer provides a comprehensive file management solution especially for rooted devices, giving users access to the entire Android file system.
  2. Integration with cloud storage services such as Google Drive, Box, and Dropbox allows seamless access to files stored on the platform
  3. The support for SMB (Server Message Block (facilitates easy access to files on networked devices, enhancing collaboration and remote access.
  4. The ability to create and extract various file formats (zip, tar/gzip, rar) streamlines file editing tasks.
  5. It includes an SQLite database viewer, a text editor, and an APK binary XML viewer, providing advanced tools for working with specific file types.
  6. Root Explorer allows users to create and extract various archive formats (zip, tar/gzip, rar), making file compression and extraction easy.
  7. Users can execute scripts directly from within the file manager, providing a way to automate tasks and run custom commands.
  8. The search function makes it easy and fast to find a specific file in a huge file system.
  9. Managing file permission directly from the app simplifies the process of securing sensitive files and folders.
  10. Bookmarks allow users to access used locations and improve overall efficiency quickly.
  11. The ability to send files via email, Bluetooth, etc., facilitates seamless sharing with other devices and users.
  12. Image thumbnails improve file identification and make it easier to identify without opening the file.
  13. A 24-hour refund policy allows users to assess whether the app meets their needs without risk.

Cons

  1. The app is primarily designed for root users, so non-root users cannot access the full functionality.
  2. The app-rich feature set can overwhelm inexperienced users and have a steep learning curve
  3. Advanced features like running scripts and editing permissions may require technical expertise.
  4. If the developer doesn’t provide timely updates, the app might become incompatible with newer Android versions or miss out on essential security patches. Inexperienced users may accidentally delete or modify critical system files, leading to data loss or device instability.
  5. Non-rooted devices cannot access the full range of features offered by Root Explorer, limiting its usefulness.
  6. The app requires various permissions, including network access and account management, which could raise privacy concerns.
  7. Depending solely on a third-party app for important file management tasks can be risky, especially if the app has bugs or crashes.
  8. The app might not fully integrate with Google Play Services, potentially affecting features like app updates and account synchronization.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the selection of the top 10 file managers for Android reflects a rich array of options to cater to diverse user needs. From the efficient simplicity of Files By Google to the advanced functionality of Root Explorer, each app offers a unique blend of features. Whether it`s intuitive navigation, seamless cloud integration, root-level access, or media management, these file managers excel in providing users with streamlined ways to organize and manipulate files on Android phones. As the Android ecosystem continues to grow, these apps are emerging as valuable tools that allow users to take full control of their file management tasks,  enhancing their mobile experience.

Victor Ayok

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Victor Ayok