Files

Open Source

★ 43,774 • Updated Aug 15, 2026, 04:45 PM

Files is a modern, open-source file manager for Windows designed to replace the default Windows File Explorer with a more intuitive and feature-rich experience.

Use Cases ▼

Organizing personal and work files with tabs and dual-pane views

Previewing files quickly without opening dedicated applications

Customizing the file manager appearance with themes and layout modes

Managing cloud storage files alongside local files

Tagging files for better searchability and categorization

Replacing the default Windows File Explorer for enhanced productivity

What Problem It Solves ▼

Files addresses the limitations of the default Windows File Explorer by providing a modern, customizable, and efficient file management experience. It solves common frustrations such as lack of tabs, limited theming, and poor dual-pane support, enabling users to organize and navigate their files and folders more effectively.

Key Features ▼

✓

Modern and intuitive user interface

✓

Tabbed browsing and dual-pane support

✓

Highly customizable with themes and layouts

✓

Active open-source community

✓

Cloud storage integration

Overview

Files is a modern, open-source file manager for Windows designed to replace the default Windows File Explorer with a more intuitive and feature-rich experience. It is built using C# and the Windows App SDK / WinUI framework, offering a clean, fluent design that aligns with Windows 11 aesthetics while remaining compatible with Windows 10.

Full Description ▼

The application provides advanced file management capabilities such as tabbed browsing, dual-pane view, tags, customizable themes, and a quick look feature for previewing files. It also supports cloud storage integration for services like OneDrive and Google Drive, and includes a variety of layout options to suit different workflows.

Files is actively developed by a community of contributors and is licensed under the MIT License. It is distributed via the Microsoft Store, GitHub releases, and winget, making it easy for users to install and keep up to date. The project has gained significant popularity as a powerful alternative to the native Windows file manager.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Modern and intuitive user interface

Tabbed browsing and dual-pane support

Highly customizable with themes and layouts

Active open-source community

Cloud storage integration

Cons

−

Only available for Windows

−

May lack some advanced features of specialized file managers

−

Performance can be slower than native File Explorer in some scenarios

−

Requires Windows 10 or later

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