10 Best FTP Clients for Android in 2026

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The best FTP client for Android in 2026 is Solid Explorer for most users, while AndFTP is the strongest dedicated utility and MiXplorer Silver is best for advanced users. Choose SFTP first, FTPS second, and plain FTP only when the server or network makes encryption unavailable.

“FTP client” covers several kinds of Android software. Some apps are dedicated transfer tools, some are full file managers with remote-storage support, and some can run an FTP server so a computer can access the phone. The distinction matters when you need folder synchronization, SSH keys, background transfers, or secure authentication.

The rankings below are editorial recommendations based on protocol coverage, interface, transfer features, add-on requirements, security implications, pricing model, and the limitations identified in the available official listings. App availability, prices, Android compatibility, and premium restrictions can change by country, device, and version.

Key takeaways

• Solid Explorer is the best overall FTP client for Android in 2026 because it combines dual-pane file management with FTP, SFTP, SMB/CIFS, WebDAV, cloud storage, archives, encryption, and an FTP server.
• AndFTP is the best dedicated FTP/SFTP utility and explicitly supports FTP, SFTP, SCP, FTPS, saved server profiles, resume support, SSH keys, and Pro-only folder synchronization.
• MiXplorer Silver offers the broadest advanced protocol and add-on experience among the leading choices, but its configuration depth is less suitable for beginners.
• FTP is unencrypted by default, FTPS protects FTP with TLS/SSL, and SFTP transfers files over SSH; SFTP should usually be the first choice for sensitive remote transfers.
• Total Commander requires separate network plug-ins, FX File Explorer requires FX+, and Amaze’s listing distinguishes between FTP/FTPS server support and SFTP client support.

Quick comparison: which Android FTP client should you choose?

The table separates FTP, FTPS, SFTP, SCP, and server features because support for one protocol does not prove support for another. “Unclear” means the supplied official evidence does not establish the feature; it is not a claim that the feature is absent.

App	Best for	FTP	FTPS	SFTP	SCP	Server mode	Dual-pane	Resume	Sync	Ads/IAP	Price model
Solid Explorer	Most users	Yes	Unclear	Yes	Unclear	FTP server	Yes	Unclear	Unclear	IAP/trial model	Commercial
MiXplorer Silver	Advanced users	Yes	Yes	Yes	Unclear	Unclear	Unclear	Unclear	Unclear	Paid bundle	Paid app
AndFTP	Dedicated transfers	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Client primarily	No	Yes	Pro only	Ads in free version	Free/Pro
X-plore	Power users	Yes	Yes	Yes	Unclear	Unclear	Yes	Unclear	Unclear	Unclear	Varies
Total Commander	Lightweight extensibility	Plug-in	Plug-in	Plug-in	Unclear	Unclear	Yes	Unclear	Unclear	Generally free	Free plus plug-ins
FX File Explorer	Privacy-focused users	FX+	Unclear	FX+	Unclear	Unclear	Yes	Unclear	Unclear	Ad-free/no-tracking claim	Free plus FX+
Amaze File Manager	Open-source/no-ads users	Server only	Server only	Client	Unclear	FTP/FTPS server	Unclear	Unclear	Unclear	No ads stated	Free
FTP Client by Lites App	Modern dedicated alternative	Yes	Yes	Yes	Unclear	Unclear	Yes	Yes	Unclear	Ads/IAP	Freemium
FTP Rush	Cross-platform users	Yes	Unclear	Yes	Unclear	Unclear	Unclear	Unclear	Unclear	Unclear	Free download
FTP Manager	Basic FTP/FTPS	Yes	Yes	No advertised support	Unclear	Unclear	Unclear	Unclear	Unclear	IAP; upload restriction needs checking	Freemium

Fast recommendation: choose Solid Explorer for a polished all-purpose app, AndFTP for a focused server-transfer tool, MiXplorer Silver for protocol breadth, Total Commander for a free modular setup, and Amaze when open source and no ads matter more than universal client support.

What is the difference between FTP, FTPS, and SFTP?

FTP is the original unencrypted protocol, FTPS adds TLS/SSL protection to FTP, and SFTP is a separate file-transfer protocol that runs over SSH. An Android app that supports FTP does not automatically support FTPS or SFTP.

Protocol	Security model	Server requirement	When to use it
FTP	Credentials and data are not encrypted by default.	FTP server	Only on a trusted network or when legacy FTP is unavoidable.
FTPS	FTP protected with TLS/SSL.	FTPS-enabled server with certificate configuration.	When the server specifically requires FTPS.
SFTP	File transfer over SSH.	SSH/SFTP server.	Preferred for most sensitive remote transfers.

For sensitive files, use SFTP whenever the server supports it. Use FTPS when the server is configured for FTP over TLS. Do not describe plain FTP as secure simply because an app has a “secure transfer” feature or marketing label. Certificate validation, SSH host-key verification, password storage, and app privacy are separate questions that require checking.

Which app is best for each type of Android FTP workflow?

The right choice depends first on whether Android is connecting outward to a server or exposing phone storage for another device to access.

Workflow	Best starting point	Why
Android connects to a remote SFTP server	Solid Explorer, AndFTP, or MiXplorer Silver	Each listing identifies SFTP support; AndFTP is the most focused dedicated utility.
Android connects to FTP, SFTP, and many storage services	Solid Explorer or MiXplorer Silver	Both are broader file managers with multiple network and storage protocols.
Android exposes files to a computer	Solid Explorer, Amaze, or Lites App FTP Tool	These options advertise server functionality; Lites App also positions HTTP as a browser-friendly alternative.
Free modular file management	Total Commander	Network protocols are supplied through separate official plug-ins.
Open-source, no-ads file management	Amaze	The listing presents Amaze as open source and without ads, but protocol direction must be understood.

1. Solid Explorer: best overall FTP client for Android

Solid Explorer is the best overall choice for most Android users because remote transfers sit inside an approachable dual-pane file manager. The official Solid Explorer Google Play listing identifies FTP and SFTP support, dual-pane navigation, archive tools, encryption, cloud and network storage support, and an FTP server.

The dual-pane layout is useful when one pane shows local Android storage and the other shows a remote server. Users can also manage archives, local files, cloud locations, SMB/CIFS shares, and WebDAV without switching to a separate app. The FTP client and FTP server are different features: the client connects from Android to a server, while the server lets another device connect to Android.

Best for: most users, NAS owners, homelab users, and anyone who wants one polished file manager.

Trade-offs: Solid Explorer uses a commercial trial or in-app-purchase model, and the exact price depends on the reader’s Google Play region. Solid Explorer may be excessive for a one-time download, and the supplied evidence does not establish complete resume, synchronization, certificate, or Android-version behavior.

Verdict: Start with Solid Explorer unless a dedicated utility, open-source license, or plug-in-based workflow is more important than ease of use.

2. MiXplorer Silver: best for advanced users

MiXplorer Silver is the strongest advanced-user option when protocol breadth and customization matter most. Its official Google Play listing describes a paid bundle containing the MiXplorer file manager and add-ons, with FTP, FTPS, SFTP, WebDAV, multiple SMB versions, archives, encryption, root access, and server-related features.

MiXplorer Silver suits technical users who manage several network types, rooted devices, archives, and customized workflows. The depth is also the main drawback: beginners may find the interface, add-on structure, and configuration choices harder to understand than Solid Explorer or a dedicated client.

MiXplorer and MiXplorer Silver should not be treated as identical distribution channels. Silver is the paid Play Store bundle, while the availability and packaging of other MiXplorer distributions should be checked before publication or installation. The supplied evidence does not prove that every add-on is included in every installation.

Verdict: Choose MiXplorer Silver when “maximum flexibility” is more important than the shortest learning curve.

3. AndFTP: best dedicated FTP/SFTP utility

AndFTP is the best dedicated Android FTP client for readers who primarily manage server transfers rather than local files. The AndFTP Google Play listing explicitly identifies FTP, SFTP, SCP, and FTPS support, multiple saved configurations, uploads, downloads, synchronization, sharing, resume support, permissions management, custom commands, and SSH key support.

AndFTP is particularly useful when you maintain several server profiles or need SCP in addition to SFTP. The app is focused rather than trying to become a complete local file manager. Folder synchronization is restricted to the Pro version according to the listing, so synchronization should not be presented as a wholly free feature. The free version also includes ads, and the available listing data shows a lower rating than leading general-purpose file managers.

Best for: dedicated FTP/SFTP/SCP/FTPS work, multiple saved connections, SSH keys, and traditional server administration.

Trade-offs: the interface can feel dated, and synchronization requires Pro.

Verdict: Pick AndFTP when server operations matter more than a modern dual-pane local file-management experience.

4. X-plore File Manager: best power-user file manager

X-plore is a strong power-user alternative for dual-pane browsing across local, remote, cloud, and archive locations. The X-plore Google Play listing identifies FTP and FTPS server access, SFTP support through an SSH-related component, SMB, cloud services, archives, root access, and an SSH shell.

The dual-pane design helps users move files between two locations, while the broad storage support makes X-plore more useful than a narrow FTP-only tool. However, SFTP appears tied to an SSH-related component, so readers should check the current installation requirements rather than assume every network feature is included in the base app.

Availability may vary by country or device. Search results include conflicting user reports about X-plore’s Google Play availability, but those reports do not establish a universal delisting. Verify the listing directly in the target market before relying on X-plore.

Verdict: A feature-rich choice for experienced users, provided the app and its SFTP component are available on the target device.

5. Total Commander for Android: best lightweight, extensible option

Total Commander is the best choice for users who want a free, utilitarian file manager and do not mind installing protocol plug-ins. The official Total Commander Android plug-in page states that the FTP plug-in supports FTP and SSL-encrypted connections, including FTPS, while a separate SFTP plug-in adds SFTP.

The plug-in model keeps the base installation modular: install only the network protocols needed. The model also creates a common setup mistake. Installing Total Commander alone may not provide the FTP or SFTP workflow the reader expects; the relevant official plug-in must be installed separately.

Total Commander is lightweight and familiar to people who use Total Commander on Windows. Its utilitarian interface is less welcoming to beginners, and the supplied evidence does not establish complete support for resume behavior, synchronization, background transfers, or SSH-key workflows.

Verdict: Excellent for patient power users; less suitable for someone seeking a modern install-and-connect experience.

6. FX File Explorer: best privacy-focused commercial option

FX File Explorer is a good privacy-oriented choice for users who want an ad-free, no-tracking file manager and are willing to pay for network features. The FX File Explorer Google Play listing says the optional FX+ add-on provides FTP, SSH FTP, WebDAV, SMB, and cloud access. The listing also describes dual-view mode, archives, encrypted ZIP support, and a password keyring for network and cloud locations.

Network access is tied to FX+, rather than being presented as part of the basic free feature set. That makes FX less attractive for readers who want a completely free FTP client, but the model may appeal to readers who prefer an ad-free experience and local credential-management features.

The visible Play Store listing in the supplied research was last updated in April 2023. That old displayed update date does not prove that FX is unsafe or unusable, but readers should verify current Android compatibility and maintenance before choosing it over newer alternatives. Exact FX+ pricing is regional and should be checked in Google Play.

Verdict: A credible paid privacy choice, with the old visible update date and FX+ requirement treated as significant qualifications.

7. Amaze File Manager: best open-source, no-ads option

Amaze is the best open-source and no-ads-oriented option when the reader understands its client-versus-server protocol split. The Amaze Google Play listing describes FTP/FTPS server functionality and an SMB/SFTP client, along with root access, archives, encryption, and optional cloud support through an additional plug-in.

The direction of the protocol matters. Amaze’s listing clearly describes FTP and FTPS as server features, while SFTP is described as a client feature. Amaze should therefore not be summarized as a universal FTP/SFTP client without explaining that distinction. Amaze may be especially useful when a computer needs to access Android storage over FTP or FTPS, or when the user wants an open-source, lightweight file manager.

The listing shown in the research was updated on December 28, 2025. Cloud support requires an additional plug-in, and the supplied evidence does not establish a complete current matrix for resume transfers, synchronization, storage permissions, or background operation.

Verdict: Choose Amaze for open-source and no-ads priorities, not as a blanket replacement for a dedicated remote FTP client.

8. FTP Client by Lites App: best modern dedicated alternative

FTP Client by Lites App is an emerging dedicated alternative with FTP, FTPS, and SFTP support, but its smaller review base makes it harder to recommend over established apps. The official Google Play listing advertises dual-pane local and remote browsing, uploads, downloads, batch operations, previews, background transfers, progress tracking, resume support, and local profile storage.

The app is attractive to users who want a dedicated transfer interface without adopting a broader file manager. The available listing shows a rating of about 3.3 stars and a relatively small review base compared with established competitors. Ads and in-app purchases are present, and a May 2026 update says some features became premium-only, so readers should check which operations remain free.

Claims such as professional-grade performance are developer claims, not independent benchmarks. The supplied evidence does not establish SCP support, synchronization, key handling, or long-term reliability across large transfers.

Verdict: Worth trying when a modern dedicated interface is the priority, but not the default choice for reliability-sensitive work.

9. FTP Rush: best cross-platform option

FTP Rush is most interesting for people who want a related tool across Android, Windows, macOS, Linux, and iOS. The FTP Rush Google Play listing advertises FTP and SFTP, cloud services including Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and Amazon S3, and server-to-server transfers between protocols.

Cross-platform availability can reduce the number of tools a user must learn when moving between a phone and desktop computer. Android and desktop features should not be assumed to be identical, however. The available Play listing shows a rating of about 2.8 stars and a relatively small review base, so FTP Rush is better justified by its cross-platform role than by an Android-only quality claim.

Server-to-server transfer is an advertised feature, not an independently tested performance result. Readers should verify the exact operation, protocol combinations, and account requirements before using it for important data.

Verdict: Consider FTP Rush if cross-platform continuity matters more than choosing the most mature Android-only option.

10. FTP Manager: best for basic FTP/FTPS only

FTP Manager is a narrow choice for basic FTP and FTPS administration when SFTP is not required. The FTP Manager Google Play listing identifies FTP and FTPS, including explicit and implicit FTPS modes, and basic remote operations such as upload, download, copy, move, rename, and delete.

FTP Manager does not advertise SFTP support in the supplied listing, so it should not be selected for an SSH-based server. The listing shows a rating around 3.1 stars and a small review base. User reviews raise a possible free-tier limitation in which uploading requires Pro, but that restriction must be checked in the current app or listing before publication.

Explicit and implicit FTPS are materially different server configurations. Select the mode required by the server, and remember that plain FTP remains unencrypted even when an app also supports FTPS.

Verdict: A legitimate basic FTP/FTPS alternative, but weaker than the leading choices for SFTP, synchronization, and broad file-management workflows.

How should you choose an Android FTP client?

Choose by protocol first, then by transfer reliability, storage access, usability, privacy, and price. A polished interface cannot compensate for an app that cannot authenticate to the server’s required protocol.

Protocol coverage

For security-sensitive work, give priority to SFTP, then FTPS, then plain FTP. SCP can matter to technical users, but SFTP support does not automatically prove SCP support. AndFTP explicitly lists both SFTP and SCP; other apps need separate verification.

Transfer reliability

Check whether the app can resume interrupted uploads and downloads, transfer folders, continue after being backgrounded, reconnect after temporary network loss, and show failed operations clearly. AndFTP and FTP Client by Lites App explicitly advertise resume support in the supplied evidence. Do not assume that copying files, queuing batches, or showing a progress bar means an app supports resumable transfers.

Synchronization

Synchronization is different from uploading or downloading a batch. AndFTP explicitly reserves folder synchronization for Pro. The supplied evidence does not verify two-way synchronization for the other listed apps, so treat synchronization as an unconfirmed feature unless the current documentation or hands-on testing proves it.

Android storage and background behavior

Before committing to an app, test internal shared storage, a removable microSD card, a USB OTG drive, and Android’s Storage Access Framework if those locations matter to the workflow. Android storage permissions, battery optimization, Wi-Fi sleep, and network switching can interrupt background transfers. The supplied sources do not establish a complete Android 14–16 compatibility matrix, so current device testing is preferable to assuming compatibility from a Play Store description.

Authentication and server settings

Useful connection options include username and password, anonymous FTP where intentionally enabled, SSH private keys, password-protected keys, host-key verification, FTPS certificate validation, explicit or implicit TLS, custom ports, passive mode, and saved server profiles. The supplied evidence confirms SSH key support for AndFTP and explicit/implicit FTPS claims for FTP Manager and the separate Lites App FTP Tool, but it does not provide a complete security-feature matrix for all ten clients.

Privacy and pricing

Record ads, in-app purchases, one-time purchases, subscriptions, plug-ins, and Pro-only features separately. Play Store Data safety declarations are supplied by developers and are not independent security audits. Prices vary by country, tax, promotion, and Google Play account, so exact dollar amounts should be checked immediately before publication.

How do you connect Android to an FTP, FTPS, or SFTP server?

Collect the server’s protocol, address, port, account, and authentication method, then create a connection profile using the app’s equivalent of Add server or New connection. Menu labels differ between Solid Explorer, AndFTP, MiXplorer, X-plore, Total Commander, and other apps.

Information to collect first

• Server hostname or local IP address.
• Exact protocol: FTP, FTPS, or SFTP.
• Port number.
• Username and password, or an SSH private key.
• Remote directory, if the server requires a specific starting path.
• Whether the server requires passive FTP, explicit FTPS, or implicit FTPS.

Common ports are 21 for FTP, 21 commonly for explicit FTPS, 990 commonly for implicit FTPS, and 22 commonly for SFTP. These are conventions rather than guarantees; the server administrator’s configuration takes precedence.

Generic connection procedure

1. Open the Android file manager or FTP client.
2. Choose Add server, New connection, Network storage, or the equivalent command.
3. Select the exact protocol instead of choosing a generic FTP option when the server requires FTPS or SFTP.
4. Enter the host, port, username, and authentication details.
5. For SFTP, import or select the SSH private key when the server requires key authentication.
6. For FTPS, choose explicit or implicit TLS if the app exposes that setting.
7. Save the profile and connect.
8. Confirm that the expected remote directory loads.
9. Transfer a small test file before beginning a large upload or download.
10. Verify the transferred file’s size and, where practical, its checksum.

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Can Android transfer files without internet access?

Yes, FTP transfers can work without public internet access when Android and the other device can reach the same local network, hotspot, or Ethernet network. Both devices still need network connectivity to each other; “no internet required” does not mean “no network required.”

The separate Lites App FTP Tool listing specifically describes local-network and hotspot use without requiring internet access, and it positions an HTTP interface as a browser-friendly alternative. An HTTP file server can be more convenient when the computer’s browser no longer handles direct ftp:// links as a normal browsing workflow.

VPNs, firewalls, router isolation, guest Wi-Fi, mobile-carrier restrictions, and different subnets can prevent two devices from reaching each other. If a phone and computer are connected to separate guest networks, the FTP app may be working correctly while the network blocks device-to-device traffic.

Can Android act as an FTP server?

Yes, some Android file managers can run a server so a computer or another device connects to the phone. Solid Explorer advertises an FTP server, Amaze advertises FTP/FTPS server support, and Lites App FTP Tool is designed for FTP/FTPS and HTTP server workflows.

Server mode reverses the direction of a normal FTP client connection. In client mode, Android connects to a remote server. In server mode, Android listens for an incoming connection and exposes selected phone storage. Use a strong account password, restrict the server to a trusted local network, stop the server when finished, and avoid exposing an Android FTP server directly to the public internet.

How do you troubleshoot an Android FTP connection?

Diagnose the server address, network reachability, port, protocol, authentication, remote path, and transfer mode in that order. Changing apps before checking server-side configuration often wastes time.

“Connection refused”

• Wrong port or protocol.
• FTP, FTPS, or SSH service is stopped.
• A firewall blocks the connection.
• The server listens only on localhost or a different interface.
• The hostname resolves to the wrong address.

Login succeeds but folders do not load

• FTP passive mode is required.
• The firewall blocks the server’s data-port range.
• The account lacks permission to list the directory.
• FTPS data-channel configuration is incorrect.
• The saved remote path is wrong.

SFTP authentication fails

• The server expects an SSH key rather than a password.
• The key format is unsupported or the key is password-protected and the app cannot unlock it.
• The username is wrong.
• The public key is not authorized on the server.
• The server requires an authentication method the app does not support.

A certificate or host-key warning appears

Do not automatically accept a certificate or SSH host key that cannot be verified. Confirm the expected certificate or host-key fingerprint with the server administrator. A certificate warning can indicate a self-signed certificate, a hostname mismatch, expiration, or a man-in-the-middle risk.

The transfer stops in the background

• Android battery optimization suspended the app.
• The app lost permission to access the selected storage location.
• Wi-Fi slept or the device changed networks.
• The app’s free tier restricts background transfers.
• The server closed an idle connection.

Test a small transfer in the foreground, exclude the app from battery optimization only when necessary, keep the phone awake during important transfers, and check whether the app has a transfer queue or resume control.

The upload completes but the file is missing

• The app is showing a cached directory listing.
• The upload went to a different remote directory.
• The account uses a chrooted or virtual path.
• The server accepted the file and a post-processing job moved it.
• Unix permissions or server-side rules hide the file.

Which Android FTP client is best by use case?

Use case	Recommendation	Reason
Best overall	Solid Explorer	Polished dual-pane file manager with FTP and SFTP plus broad storage features.
Best dedicated client	AndFTP	Focused server-transfer workflow with FTP, FTPS, SFTP, SCP, resume, profiles, and SSH keys.
Best advanced option	MiXplorer Silver	Broad FTP(S), SFTP, WebDAV, SMB, archive, encryption, root, and add-on capabilities.
Best open-source/no-ads option	Amaze	Open-source and presented without ads, with important client/server protocol distinctions.
Best lightweight option	Total Commander	Free, extensible, and modular through official FTP, FTPS, and SFTP plug-ins.
Best privacy-focused option	FX File Explorer	Ad-free/no-tracking positioning, with network features supplied through FX+.
Best cross-platform option	FTP Rush	Offers Android, Windows, macOS, Linux, and iOS versions according to its listing.
Best FTP/FTPS-only utility	FTP Manager	Simple FTP and explicit/implicit FTPS operations, but no advertised SFTP support.

What should you verify before relying on an app?

App listings are useful for identifying advertised features, but they do not replace testing. Verify large-file uploads and downloads, folder transfers, resume behavior, background operation, reconnection after Wi-Fi changes, filenames containing spaces or emoji, microSD and USB OTG access, certificate handling, SSH-key authentication, and the exact price and premium restrictions.

Ratings are context rather than a reliability benchmark. Ratings vary by country, version, device, and user expectation. The available evidence shows lower ratings for FTP Rush, FTP Manager, and FTP Client by Lites App than for leading file managers, but star ratings do not establish transfer speed, security, or compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is FTP safe on Android?

Plain FTP is not encrypted by default, so FTP is not safe for sensitive transfers on untrusted networks. Use SFTP over SSH when the server supports it, or FTPS when the server specifically requires FTP protected by TLS/SSL.

What is the best SFTP client for Android?

Solid Explorer is the best general-purpose SFTP choice for most users, AndFTP is the best dedicated SFTP utility, and MiXplorer Silver is the strongest advanced option for broad protocol coverage. Check SSH-key, host-key, and background-transfer support for the specific server.

Can I transfer files from Android to a PC without internet?

Yes. Android and the PC can transfer files over the same local Wi-Fi network, hotspot, or Ethernet network without public internet access. Firewalls, guest-network isolation, VPNs, and router settings can still block device-to-device communication.

Can Android act as an FTP server?

Yes. Solid Explorer and Amaze advertise FTP server features, while Lites App FTP Tool supports FTP/FTPS and HTTP server workflows. Server mode lets a computer connect to Android; it is different from using Android as an FTP client.

What port does SFTP use?

SFTP commonly uses port 22, while FTP commonly uses port 21, explicit FTPS commonly uses port 21, and implicit FTPS commonly uses port 990. These are conventions, not guarantees, so use the port configured by the server administrator.

The Bottom Line

For most people, install Solid Explorer. Choose AndFTP when you want a dedicated server-transfer utility with SCP, SSH keys, resume support, and Pro synchronization. Choose MiXplorer Silver for advanced protocol breadth, Total Commander for a free plug-in-based workflow, FX File Explorer for its privacy-focused paid model, and Amaze when open source and no ads are more important than universal FTP client support. Use plain FTP only when necessary; prefer SFTP or FTPS for sensitive transfers.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.