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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteThe app in Akshay Bhalla’s headline is Material Files, an open-source Android file manager developed by Hai Zhang. Bhalla says it has no ads, subscription unlocks, in-app purchases, or telemetry tracking; those are his reported observations, not independently audited claims. Its practical appeal is a combination of everyday file tools and connections to FTP, SFTP, SMB, and WebDAV servers.
What makes Material Files different?
Material Files is designed for managing files on an Android device, with a Material Design interface and tools for browsing, organizing, and working with archives. Unlike a file manager whose key functions sit behind a paid tier, Bhalla describes this app as having no ads, subscription unlocks, or in-app purchases. The available sources do not independently verify those monetization or telemetry claims, so treat them as the author’s account rather than an audit.
The Google Play listing describes breadcrumb navigation, customizable colors and night mode, root access, and the ability to view, extract, and create common compressed archives. The project repository lists Android 5.0 or later as the platform requirement.
How it can help transfer files without a cloud service
Material Files supports connections to FTP, SFTP, SMB, and WebDAV servers. These protocols can let you access files on another device or server over a network, depending on how that server and network are configured.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Phone-to-computer transfers over FTP
Bhalla says he uses FTP for transfers between his phone and computer. This provides a way to move files across the local network without first uploading them to a cloud service. The setup and available functions depend on the FTP server and the network configuration; the reported example does not establish universal speeds or compatibility.
Accessing a NAS over SMB
A Network Attached Storage (NAS) device is optional, not a requirement for using Material Files. Bhalla describes connecting to a Synology NAS over SMB, which lets him move files between his phone and network storage without routing that workflow through cloud upload and download. Material Files’ listing confirms SMB support, but your NAS permissions, SMB settings, and network access still need to be configured correctly.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What to check before switching
- Android version: The project repository says Android 5.0 or later is supported.
- Server protocols: Check that the server you want to reach supports one of the listed protocols: FTP, SFTP, SMB, or WebDAV.
- Root and archives: The Play listing describes root access and tools to view, extract, and create common compressed archives. Root access is a specialized capability, not a prerequisite for ordinary file browsing.
- Document picker and external storage: Material Files does not replace Android’s DocumentsUI. The repository says it relies on DocumentsUI for some tasks, including granting access to an external SD card. If your workflow depends on a particular document-picker or SD-card flow, verify it on your own device.
How to judge whether it suits your needs
Compare file managers against the tasks you actually perform rather than assuming one app is best for everyone. Relevant differences include ads and paid tiers, local file operations, archive support, root access, network protocols, Android version requirements, and integration with Android’s document picker and external storage.
Google Play showed 1M+ downloads and a 4.3-star rating when checked on October 4, 2026, and listed an update dated September 20, 2026. These are changeable store figures, not independent measures of quality. Its Data safety panel says the developer reports no data shared with third parties, while also indicating the app may collect app information and performance data and device or other IDs, and that data is encrypted in transit. Those are developer-provided declarations, not an independent privacy audit.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Bhalla’s recommendation is especially relevant if you want a lightweight file manager and need FTP transfers or access to a NAS. The available information supports those use cases and the app’s listed tools, but it does not establish that Material Files is better than every competing Android file manager.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
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