Files review
A free, flexible Windows manager with tabs, dual panes, archives, previews, and cloud access.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Files is an open-source desktop file manager for Windows, aimed at users who want more structure and control than a basic folder browser. Its free version combines tabbed navigation, dual-pane folder management, multiple layouts, file and folder tagging, previews for photos, videos, and documents, and a Command Palette with file-management actions. Batch renaming helps with larger groups of items, while built-in ZIP and 7z support covers common archive tasks. Git repository actions also make Files relevant to users who manage code alongside everyday files.
Its strongest fit is the breadth of local file-management features in a free, open-source package. The dual-pane layout supports side-by-side folder work, tabs keep multiple locations available, and tagging adds another way to organize content. The preview pane reduces the need to open separate applications for supported files. Files can also reach cloud storage through supported desktop clients, with integrations including OneDrive, Google Drive, iCloud, Box, Dropbox, Mega, Nextcloud, Yandex, Jottacloud, Synology Drive, pCloud Drive, Nutstore, Seadrive, Autodesk, and ownCloud.
Files is available through the Microsoft Store, a classic installer, PowerShell, or other package methods. The published offering is freemium: a free version is available, while Microsoft Store purchases support ongoing development. The project is community-maintained, which may suit users who value open-source software but may be less suitable for teams seeking a broader platform or a product centered on enterprise support. Files should be a strong choice for Windows users who want a modern, feature-rich manager without a required paid plan. Users who need another operating system, built-in AI features, or cloud storage that works without supported desktop clients should look elsewhere.
Files pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Dual panes, tabs, layouts, previews, and a Command Palette
- Batch renaming plus ZIP and 7z archive management
- Supports many cloud-drive clients and includes Git actions
- Where it doesn't
- Windows-only availability
- Cloud access depends on supported desktop clients
- No AI features or cross-platform version
Files fact sheet, pricing and score →
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update