Have a File Browser on your device Android It is useful, since it allows you to explore all the units of your terminal and even the microSD card if you use it. Therefore, it does not hurt that you have a quality one and with all the possible options so that your file management is optimal.
In this article we are not going to show developments that essentially need the phone or tablet to be rooted (unprotected), since what we are looking for is to find the file explorer that best suits your needs, without the pretense of accessing folders protected by the Android system. For that, we ask for your patience since we are working on the particular case that we have indicated.
Therefore, in the five applications that we show what can be found developments that offer extended options to those that are normally included in the game to those that are included by default in Android devices and, in addition, all of them are Returns, which is an added bonus and makes them “somewhat” more attractive. Let’s start (by the way, the order is not a recommendation, we’re simply following the alphabet). In addition, we’re incorporating more current alternatives with storage cleaning, access to cloud services, management LAN/FTP/SMB and functions like space analysis or double panel so you can choose wisely.
Android FileManager
This is an intuitive and simple option, which has its best virtues in these two details. The application offers the possibility of accessing both the content of the Android device and the memory cards that are used. Their aesthetic appearance reminds a lot of the one offered by the Windows file explorer, which will be a positive detail for many. Besides, it has several shortcuts at the top that makes navigation faster and more intuitive. The possibilities are wide: copy, cut, paste, erase, compress ... a good choice.
To complement, it is practical to search by name, the accesses to favorite folders and list or grid views to suit each file type. If you work with ZIP, you can zip and unzip without installing anything else.
Download in Google Play
ASTRO File Manager
One of the most interesting features of this application is that it is perfectly adapted for tablets. In addition, it offers all the necessary options for a file explorer and, additionally, you can access cloud services (Box, Drive, Dropbox or SkyDrive). It includes additional functions such as a "Task Killer", the possibility of accessing local networks and even compressing files in ZIP format. A great gamble.
ASTRO stands out for its interface cleaning with shortcuts to content types and allows create folders from the main panel. It also makes it easier to APK management installed and cloud linking as Dropbox or OneDrive, so you can move files between local and cloud without leaving the app.
ES File Explorer
This file explorer has been around for a long time and is still a great option, as your options have always been increasing, making it one of the best options on the market. An example of its impact on users is that it takes more than 180 million downloads, what something means. It offers the options that are sought in this type of development, including cloud services, but it also offers the most interesting possibilities: FTP, APK thumbnails, compression and decompression, and task finisher. Really impressive.
It also incorporates clients LAN / SMB to access shared folders on your network and a manager for transfer files between devices over Wi‑Fi, useful if you manage content on a home TV Box or NAS.
Download in the store
File Explorer
The most complex option that exists is not always sought. This one, specifically, offers the basics that are needed to be considered useful, but has its maxim in the simplicity of use. With a very simple handling, FileExplorer is an option interesting for those who are not looking for trouble but need a file explorer. Its feature, it is possible to mark folders as favorites.
If you just want create, copy, move and rename without distractions, its direct interface and the function of favorites They save you time in your daily life.
Download in Play Store
Solid Explorer
It is one of the new file explorer creations for Android, and the truth is that it is having a really good acceptance among users: the votes on Google Play give it 4,7 out of five. The best it offers is an attractive user interface with two very well defined and useful panels. It allows the usual procedures for this type of development and also offers the possibility of using and creating compressed files. It can be used without being root, but also when it is. An attractive option, there is no doubt.
His strong point is the double panel to drag and drop between locations, the file encryption with password, compatibility with clouds and NAS, and optional support for root access for advanced users.
Download here on Google Play
Google files
Files by Google is the official option and usually comes pre-installed. In addition to browsing folders or categories (images, videos, documents), their greatest value is the automatic cleaning from the phone and recommendations to free up space.
- Delete duplicates, large files, old downloads and multimedia from WhatsApp o Telegram.
- Allows share files offline between Android devices quickly.
- Displays warnings when there is trash accumulated and allows to manage the internal storage folder by folder.
- Respect the writing restrictions from Android to system folders, avoiding errors and risks.
More recommended managers
File Commander
Clear interface with access to categories and internal storage. It includes Wi‑Fi transfer to PC, dark theme, and cloud options. Its ad-free version adds extras like paper bin and encryption.
ZArchiver
Minimalist and fast, ideal if you want a manager no frills to navigate through all folders and work with compressed files without distracting added features.
Xiaomi File Explorer
It works on any Android and combines categories with a folder panel. It includes cleaner, integration with Google Drive, FTP/LAN and view documents by format (PDF, Word, Excel, PPT).
File Manager+
Lightweight and complete. Manages internal storage, SD/USB OTG, NAS and popular clouds. It offers storage analysis, image viewer, audio player, text editor and ZIP/TAR/GZ/XZ compression. It allows access from PC via FTP.
ASTRO File Manager
In addition to what has already been mentioned, it allows link clouds y manage APK from the app itself. A stable and Easy to use to sort and back up.
Total Commander
Powerful and free, with comparator, FTP client/server, ZIP manager and advanced options. Ideal if you need fine control and complex workflows.
X‑Plore File Manager
Design double panel very efficient for copying/moving. Excellent with cloud, USB, Wi-Fi sharing, built-in trash and support for subtitles for multimedia.
Fx file explorer
Designed for multitask, with dual view, integration in the cloud y encryption Advanced. Visually clean and very robust at managing large libraries.
Amaze file manager
Open source project With the essentials: copy, move, compress, multiple tabs, and themes. Ideal if you're looking for transparency and lightness without ads.
MiXplorer Silver
Very complete for demanding users. Supports plugins (Archiver, Image, Tagger, PDF) and handles copies, compression and share at a high level, as well as making it easier to view file metadata.
Root Explorer
For users with root that require full system access, editing permissions, and multiple tabs. Includes support for cloud to move advanced content.
Helios File Manager
Versatile and clean. Supports SD and root (if user allows), multiple selection, send to Dropbox/Drive/OneDrive, show/hide hidden shortcuts in Home, ZIP extraction, and a complete text editor with printing.
How to choose a file manager on Android
- Value that it includes cloud access (Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive) and protocols LAN/FTP/SMB/WebDAV if you work on a network or NAS.
- Decide between interface simple o double panel to copy/move faster.
- Search storage analysis, duplicate cleanup and large file alerts.
- Prioriza encryption, trash, integrated viewer and options without ads.
If you need to access several devices in your home (mobile phones, TV Stick, PC or NAS), opt for apps with SMB/FTP like Solid Explorer, X-Plore, MiXplorer, or File Manager+. For an ad-free experience with built-in cleanup, Files by Google is a great place to start; if you also want encryption and dual-pane, Solid Explorer excels. Those who prefer lightweight software have reliable allies in Amaze or ZArchiver, and if you manage system permissions, Total Commander or Root Explorer will give you the control you're looking for.
