ST Explorer
ST Explorer: A free, focused SFTP client with practical browsing, transfer, and SSH features. Ranked #24 of 31 in SFTP Client Software by our editors (6.9/10); pricing: Free plan; best for users wanting a free, focused SFTP client.
At a glance
- Editor score6.9 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forUsers wanting a free, focused SFTP client
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Supported platformsWindows, macOS, Linux
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open source under the MIT license
- Supports Windows, macOS, and Linux through available platform paths
- Includes tabs, transfer progress, server-side copy, and key support
Where it doesn't
- Supports SFTP rather than a broader set of transfer protocols
- macOS and Linux use requires building from source
- Focused on core transfers rather than automation or synchronization
Our verdict on ST Explorer
ST Explorer is a native desktop SFTP client for browsing remote files and managing transfers. It is aimed at users who want a free, focused tool for SFTP access across Windows, macOS, and Linux. The interface supports icon, list, and Finder-style column views, while drag-and-drop uploads from Windows Explorer and native clipboard integration keep common file operations straightforward. An integrated tabbed SSH terminal adds command-line access within the same application.
Its strongest area is day-to-day transfer control. A live transfer progress panel provides visibility into active operations, and server-side copy supports remote-to-remote moves without requiring the files to pass through the local machine. Keyboard shortcuts cover file operations and filtering. SSH key support and known_hosts host-key pinning add authentication and host-verification options for users managing SFTP connections. The published feature set remains centered on file browsing and transfers, so teams looking for automation or synchronization should consider a more specialized alternative.
ST Explorer is distributed as a standalone Windows executable and is free under the MIT license. The vendor states that macOS and Linux compatibility is available by building from source, making the platform experience more direct on Windows than on the other supported systems. That setup model suits technically comfortable users who value open-source software and a focused feature set. Choose ST Explorer for straightforward SFTP transfers, remote file management, SSH key support, and a native desktop workflow; choose another tool if you need broader protocol coverage, built-in automation, or synchronization features.
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ST Explorer pricing
ST Explorer fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported protocols | SFTP |
| Supported platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Folder synchronization | Not verified |
| SSH key authentication | Yes |
| Remote file editing | Not verified |
| Automation support | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | stexplorer.stivetec.com |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to ST Explorer
- WinSCPA capable free SFTP client for Windows users who need scripting and synchronization.9.4
- CyberduckA versatile, open-source SFTP client for cross-platform file transfers and cloud connections.9.2
- FileZilla ClientA capable free SFTP client for cross-platform file transfers and remote file management.9.0
See all ST Explorer alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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