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Files, an open-source file manager for Windows, says its v4.2.7 release makes its own right-click menu more responsive and frees more memory after tabs close. That is a targeted app update—not evidence that Files speeds up Windows 11 overall or beats Microsoft File Explorer in a controlled test.
What changed in Files v4.2.7
Files Community published version 4.2.7 on August 17, 2026. The project describes the update as improving context-menu responsiveness, but does not publish a latency, memory, or benchmark figure. Files Community’s release announcement lists these changes:
- More responsive right-click menu: The project describes the menu as faster, without quantifying the difference.
- More memory freed after tabs close: This addresses memory handling in Files; the release does not state how much memory is recovered or under what workload.
- Middle-click to open a tab: Middle-clicking the empty tab strip opens a new tab.
- Select the opened item: When another app opens a location in Files, the relevant item is selected automatically.
- Filter text box fix: The release also fixes an issue with the filter text box.
These are app-specific changes. They do not establish that other parts of Windows, or every file operation in Files, are faster.
What Files offers beyond the context menu
Files Community presents Files as a sleek, open-source file explorer for Windows. Its feature list includes tools for organizing files, managing multiple locations, and customizing the interface. The list is the project’s description of its features, not a comparison of speed or quality with Microsoft File Explorer. See Files Community’s feature overview.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
- Navigation and organization: Multiple folder tabs, dual-pane browsing, colored tags, and column view.
- File handling: Archive creation and extraction, a preview pane, and file hashes.
- Connected services and development: Cloud-drive integration, including OneDrive, Google Drive, and iCloud, plus Git integration.
- Customization and control: A command palette, custom key bindings, and options to customize the toolbar and theme.
Those features may matter more than the context-menu change if your reason for considering a Windows Explorer alternative is a tabbed or dual-pane workflow, cloud access, or a particular file-management tool.
How the Microsoft comparison stands
In an August 17, 2026 report, Windows Central said Microsoft’s updated context menu was rolling out in preview builds for Windows Insiders. The report described Microsoft’s goals as faster opening, less clutter, and more customization; it projected wider availability later in the fall, but that was an expectation rather than a confirmed release date. The article does not establish whether the redesign is generally available now, so check current Windows release information before assuming it has reached your PC. Windows Central’s report on Microsoft’s preview quotes Microsoft engineer Michael Novak: “The menu became cluttered and sluggish, and we recognized the need to dramatically reduce the time between right-clicking and having a menu that’s fully ready to use.”
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
That timing makes Files’ context-menu update a timely alternative to consider, not proof that it is faster than Microsoft’s redesigned menu. The available release announcement gives no comparative measurements, and the two menus have not been shown here under the same Windows build, hardware, files, and test conditions.
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How to decide whether Files suits your workflow
Consider the tasks you actually do rather than treating “faster” as a universal verdict:
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
- Right-click responsiveness: Try the menus you use most often. Version 4.2.7 announces a qualitative improvement in Files but supplies no measured opening time.
- Long sessions with many tabs: The update says Files frees more memory after tabs close; it does not specify the amount or promise a particular result on every system.
- Navigation style: Check whether tabs, dual panes, or column view fit how you move between folders.
- File and service needs: Confirm that its archive tools, previews, tags, cloud integrations, or Git support cover your tasks.
- Windows integration: Consider whether Files works with the other apps and file-opening behaviors you rely on, or whether you prefer to keep using Windows’ built-in manager.
For a genuine speed comparison, measure the same actions on the same Windows build and hardware, using the same files and conditions. Without that controlled comparison, neither the release notes nor an individual user’s experience can support a general claim that one file manager is faster.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Availability and support
Files Community links to the Microsoft Store and the project’s GitHub source from its home page. The v4.2.7 announcement says support through a Microsoft Store purchase or GitHub sponsorship is optional. The cited materials do not establish a specific price here.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Rank #4
- EFFORTLESS EVERYDAY PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 Home system, delivering reliable, low-power efficiency for daily tasks like document editing, email, online classes, and web browsing
- 15.6-INCH FULL HD DISPLAY: Enjoy immersive visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with micro-edge bezels. Delivers clear details and comfortable viewing for long study sessions, working on spreadsheets, and video playback
- RESPONSIVE MULTITASKING & STORAGE: Built with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for smooth daily essential use. Expand your storage by up to 1TB via the integrated TF card slot to easily store movies, photos, and working files
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY: Outfitted with 2x Full-Featured Type-C ports for data transfer, fast charging, and dual-monitor output, alongside 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack for complete peripheral compatibility
- LIGHTWEIGHT & SILENT OPERATION: Slim and portable for effortless travel or commuting. Features a 1MP HD webcam for remote meetings, 38Wh battery with 45W Type-C fast charging, and a fanless silent design for peaceful work environments.
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