Windows File Explorer, a staple in the Windows ecosystem for years, serves its purpose but can feel outdated compared to modern file management applications. While it offers features like tabbed browsing, a preview pane, and access to recently opened files, it still falls short in providing the desired productivity enhancements that contemporary users seek.
Once you experience the Files app, the limitations of File Explorer become glaringly obvious. This app transforms file management not only through its sleek and contemporary interface but also with a suite of intuitive features that leave you questioning why they weren’t part of the default package from Microsoft.
The Files app on the Microsoft Store is priced at $8. However, a complimentary version is available via a direct download from its official website.
7 Streamlined File Management with Dual-Pane Mode
Efficiently Move and Copy Files Between Folders
The Files app incorporates a dual-pane mode, a feature commonly found in alternative file explorers. This functionality divides your workspace into two sections—available in either horizontal or vertical configurations—eliminating the hassle of managing multiple windows or tabs while transferring files.
Activating this feature is straightforward: click on the Layout icon and choose either Split-pane > Split vertically or Split horizontally. The resulting interface enables seamless navigation between two folders, allowing for effortless drag-and-drop actions.
This dual-pane setup significantly enhances productivity by reducing the cumbersome task of switching between tabs or windows. Whether you are managing a chaotic downloads folder or moving files across different drives, the dual-pane mode is a time-saver.
6 Enhanced Browsing with Column View
Visualize More Information at a Glance
The Files app offers a remarkable feature known as the Column view. To activate this, click the arrow adjacent to the Layout icon and select Columns. Files and folders will then be arranged in a neatly organized, side-scrolling column format.
By double-clicking a folder, its contents expand in a new column rather than a separate window, allowing for a clearer overview without losing your place. This intuitive navigation method enables you to easily track the path you are following, jump between folders rapidly, and locate necessary files without backtracking.
The design echoes the multi-column layout in macOS Finder, reinforcing its usability for those familiar with that interface.
5 Organize Files with Tag Support
Customize Your File Categories with Tags
A standout feature inspired by macOS is the ability to use tags for file organization. Tags allow you to attach custom labels to your files, making it easier to categorize and group documents, photos, and projects according to your preferences. You can sort your items by labels like Work, Personal, or any personal categories you create.
The Files app comes pre-equipped with four default tags, but you have the flexibility to modify or create your own by navigating to Settings > Tags. Tagging a file is as simple as right-clicking it, selecting Edit tags, and choosing your desired labels. You can even apply multiple tags to a single file.
Once your files are tagged, you can easily access them by expanding the Tags section in the left pane, providing quick visibility of all associated files. This feature streamlines the collection of project-related files without the need to create redundant duplicates or shifts between folders.
4 Keep Important Folders Visible with Compact Overlay
Multitask with Ease: Keep Key Folders in View
For those moments when you need to keep certain files accessible while working on other applications, the compact overlay feature becomes invaluable. This feature reduces the Files app window to a small, always-on-top interface effortlessly floating above all applications.
To utilize this feature, click the tab actions menu icon located in the upper left corner and select Enter compact overlay. The Files app will remain visible, enabling you to drag and drop files, whether uploading to cloud services like Google Drive or sharing via apps such as WhatsApp. This feature is ideal for multitasking workflows.
3 Identify Storage Hogs with Folder Size Display
Gain Clear Insight on Storage Usage
Unlike File Explorer, which requires you to navigate to a folder’s properties to view its size, the Files app allows users to visualize folder sizes quickly. While this feature isn’t activated by default to minimize CPU load, users with robust systems can enable it through Settings > Files & folders by toggling the Calculate folder sizes option.
Once enabled, the size of each folder will appear next to its name, facilitating an effortless way to identify large storage consumers. This feature is particularly beneficial for users seeking to clean up a cluttered drive or simply curious about their storage utilization.
2 Unlimited Customization Options
Personalize Your File Experience to Suit Your Style
The Files app stands apart from other file management options, not just because of its host of features but also for its stunning visual design. While other alternatives, such as Total Commander and Directory Opus, boast numerous functions, they often lack the seamless integration within Windows that the Files app offers.
Customization options abound in the Files app, accessible via Settings > Appearance. Users can switch between light and dark themes, alter background colors, or even upload a personal image for customization. Additionally, the General tab allows you to tailor the right-click menu, granting you the ability to hide unnecessary choices—something File Explorer does not provide.
1 Customizable Keyboard Shortcuts
Maximize Productivity with Keyboard Controls
For aficionados of keyboard shortcuts, the Files app delivers an extensive collection that can enhance your workflow. You can access these via Settings > Actions, featuring a comprehensive list of shortcuts for tab management, split view access, and application navigation.
What differentiates this feature is the possibility to customize shortcuts to suit your needs. If you prefer a distinct key combination to activate the preview pane or toggle the overlay mode, you can personalize these settings.
Having tested numerous File Explorer alternatives, I consistently return to the Files app for its balance of simplicity and elegance. It doesn’t bombard users with unnecessary features, maintaining a sleek and modern design that stands unmatched in the file management landscape.
Beyond the features highlighted, the Files app is infused with thoughtful elements, such as built-in support for services like Google Drive and iCloud, oversized icons for improved visibility, and an array of usability enhancements. Should you appreciate the experience, you can set the Files app as your default file manager under Settings > Advanced.
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