If you choose Android instead of iPhone it can be for many reasons, but there is an essential difference between iOS and Android, and that is that in the latter we can browse files by folder, just as we do on any computer, while on iOS files cannot be touched in this way, unless we jailbreak, with the negative aspects that this entails. Therefore, we're going to look at four file explorers for Android, which will allow us to choose the one we like best and that best suits our needs. You can also check out five free file explorers for more options.
What to look for in an Android file explorer
A good manager should offer quick access to internal and external memory, allowing basic operations (copy, move, rename) and adding functions that provide real value in everyday life.
- Smart cleaning Space: detecting duplicates, large files, and old downloads.
- Cloud Integration and remote access: Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, NAS, SMB/LAN and FTP/FTPS/SFTP.
- Productivity: dual panel, tabs, internal image, video, music and text editor viewers.
- Security: File encryption and recycle bin for recovering deleted files.
- Compatibility: support for OTG/USB, Android TV and Android permission management.
The best file explorers for Android
Astro File Manager
The file manager from experience. If you have a friend who's an Android expert and you've asked them to install "something" to view your files, this will be the app you'll have on your device. Its main pillar: its simplicity. You don't have to go too far to get it right. navigate between files and copy, paste, delete, create folders, rename all the elements we want, and even compress and decompress folders. In addition to this, it has other applications within itself, such as the application manager, and the services and processes, with which I was really surprised. This last option is rather aimed at advanced users, but it is ideal for keeping track of what you have inside your phone and how resources are used, all without having root. Astro is free, is in Spanish, and can be downloaded now from Google Play.
Today, Astro also stands out for its cloud connection (add services like Dropbox or OneDrive), APK management, and a clean interface that makes it easy to create folders from the main panel and quickly organize file types.
ES File Explorer
This is the alternative to Astro. If you have to choose between the two, it's hard to choose one or the other. There are few differences. It does more or less the same thing as Astro, although some important aspects can be clarified. ES File Explorer is more oriented towards file management, both on Android and on the PC, so that we can create a private local network between our computer and our mobile and transfer files As if it were just another folder on our computer. This last feature is ideal if we want to transfer a lot of files from our computer to our phone and don't want to connect the cable. If you just want an app that lets you easily browse your phone's memory and SD card, choose Astro. If you want complete control over your files, both from your phone and computer, to transfer files regularly, then ES File Explorer is the best solution—free, by the way, from Google Play and available in Spanish.
His strength is the exchange via LAN/FTP and cloud integration, as well as utilities such as compression/decompression and a multimedia viewer to play content without leaving the app.
MIUI File Explorer
Style, design, and very neat interface, that's how this app defines itself. Don't want to use the file explorer much and want it to look good? MIUI File Explorer is the answer you were looking for. Pretty, functional, basic, and simple, plus it's intuitive since the features don't go that far. Browse files, categorize them, copy here and paste there, and little else. Don't complicate things; you bought the phone just because it was pretty on the outside; with MIUI File Explorer, it'll be pretty even when renaming files. It's the app that comes with MIUI ROMs, which is why it's not on Google Play, but don't worry, you can download it from XDA Developers. Then don't say that Android isn't pretty.
In addition to its careful design, organizes by category and allows quick views of documents, images, and videos; it's ideal if you prioritize simplicity and a clear visual experience.
File Expert
Its name says it all: File Expert. It's like the others, but for experts. We can do the most basic things, like viewing files, browsing folders, copying, pasting, renaming, etc. However, what interests us most about File Expert are the additional options. advanced management. For example, we can access PC files from the app using SMB and our WiFi connection, just like turn your phone into a NAS. It also supports FTP uploads. Are you lost? Of course, it's a bit confusing for beginners without experience, although it's available in Spanish, but you can download it for free from Google Play.
Among its additions are the remote access to shared folders, support for multiple protocols and compression utilities, perfect if you manage large network libraries.
Google files
Google's proposal focuses on free up space and organize without complications. Detect duplicate files, messaging app content, unused downloads, and large items so you can clean up with a couple of taps.
- Remove duplicates and large files.
- Manage WhatsApp/Telegram media and folder downloads.
- Share files Without connection between nearby devices.
Your tab Exploring It offers access to images, videos, audio and documents, as well as internal storage to navigate folder by folder with secure permissions.
Solid Explorer
A classic that combines Material design with dual drag-and-drop panel. Allows you to add cloud storage (Drive, Dropbox, etc.), encrypt sensitive files, and adjust themes, views, and sizes to your liking. If you need guidance, consult the complete Solid Explorer tutorial.
Includes trial period and a low-cost full version, with premium features such as encryption and advanced storage management.
File Commander
Clear interface with access to images, video, music and documents, without giving up the section of internal storage. Integrates a server to transfer files to your PC via WiFi and dark theme.
Their premium plan adds cloud link, encryption and trash. The subscription model can be expensive if you're just looking for the basics.
ZArchiver
Minimalist and direct, ideal if you want explore quickly No frills. Great support for compressed formats and a simple, dark interface to get straight to the point.
Xiaomi File Explorer
It works great on any Android device. It combines categories and folders panel, integrates file cleaner, remote access via LAN/FTP, and connection to Google Drive. If you're unsure about formats, check file systems for cards. Documents lets you view by format (PDF, Word, Excel, etc.).
File Manager Plus
An easy and powerful option with support for NAS, clouds, and PC access via FTP. It includes storage analysis, internal viewers, and compressed file management (zip, tar, gz, xz), as well as Android TV and OTG support.
Other advanced options
- Total Commander: Encryption, built-in ZIP tool and FTP/FTPS/SFTP client for comprehensive control.
- X‑Plore File Manager: Dual panel, WiFi sharing, USB support and paper bin to recover deleted files.
- Amaze file manager: open source, lightweight and with AES encryption; ideal if you prioritize transparency and efficiency.
- Fx file explorer: multitasking orientation with dual view, clouds and encryption to keep your libraries safe.
- MiXplorer Silver: Very complete with plugins (Archiver, Image, Tagger, PDF) to extend functions and share with flexibility.
- Root Explorer: Full file system access for root users, management of permits and multiple tabs.
With these alternatives you cover from basic needs (wireless browsing, cleaning and sharing) to professional scenarios (power and customization: cloud, LAN/FTP, dual pane and encryption). If you prioritize simplicity, Google Files and Astro are safe bets; if you want power and customization, Solid Explorer, ES or File Expert shine; and for advanced control, Total Commander, X‑Plore or Root Explorer elevate the experience.
