Android’s default Files app is basic. If you need to access hidden folders, connect to network drives, manage archives, or navigate your phone’s storage properly, a third-party file manager is essential. Here are the best options.
Short Answer: Solid Explorer is the best overall Android file manager — dual-pane view, network drive support (NAS, FTP, SFTP), cloud integration, and root access. Free for 14 days, then $2.99. For a completely free option, MiXplorer is powerful and open source. Files by Google is the best minimalist option that requires no setup.
1. Solid Explorer — Best Overall
Solid Explorer is the most feature-complete file manager on Android. The dual-pane view shows two folders side-by-side (like a desktop file manager), making it easy to move files between locations. It supports NAS (SMB), FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive connections alongside local storage.
- Price: Free 14-day trial, then $2.99 one-time
- Best for: Power users who manage files frequently
- Highlights: Dual pane, network drives, ZIP/RAR/7z archive support, root file access (on rooted devices), bookmark folders
📸 SCREENSHOT NEEDED: Solid Explorer showing dual-pane file browser with internal storage on the left and a network drive on the right
2. MiXplorer — Best Free Option
MiXplorer is a free, powerful file manager that’s been developed by a dedicated community since 2012. It has tab support (open multiple folders in tabs), extensive plugin system for adding functionality, archive support (ZIP, RAR, 7z, TAR), and cloud storage integration. No ads, no subscription, completely free.
- Price: Free (available on XDA Labs or APK download — not on Play Store)
- Best for: Users who want Solid Explorer-level power without paying
- Note: Requires installing from APK (outside Play Store) — only do this from the official XDA thread
3. Files by Google — Best Simple Option
Files by Google is lightweight, fast, and has a clean interface. It handles basic file management well and includes a built-in cleaner that identifies junk files, large files, and duplicate photos to help free up storage. It also supports offline peer-to-peer file sharing (like AirDrop for Android).
- Price: Free
- Best for: Everyday file access and storage cleanup
- Limitation: No network drive support, no dual pane
4. ES File Explorer — Legacy Option (Use With Caution)
ES File Explorer was the most popular Android file manager for years but has declined in quality — the current version has invasive ads and questionable permissions. It still works but Solid Explorer or MiXplorer are better alternatives. Mention it only because many users still have it installed.
5. FX File Explorer
FX File Explorer is a good middle ground — cleaner interface than MiXplorer, free base app with a $1.99 “Plus” key for network and cloud features. Handles local storage, USB OTG devices, archives, and basic network drives. Good for users who find Solid Explorer’s interface overwhelming.
How to Access Hidden Files on Android
Android files and folders starting with a dot (.) are hidden by default. To show them:
- Solid Explorer: Settings → Show hidden files → toggle ON
- Files by Google: Three-dot menu (top right) → Show hidden files
- Most file managers: Look in Settings or the kebab menu for “Show hidden files”
📸 SCREENSHOT NEEDED: Android file manager settings showing ‘Show hidden files’ toggle being turned on, revealing dot-prefixed hidden folders
Show hidden files:
Open any file manager → Settings or ⋮ menu → Show hidden files → ON. Files starting with . (dot) are now visible.
Warning: Be careful modifying hidden system files (files in /Android/data, /Android/obb, or .nomedia files). Deleting the wrong file can break apps or cause media not to appear in your gallery.
Quick checklist:
- ✅ Installed Solid Explorer (14-day free trial) or MiXplorer (free) for full functionality
- ✅ Enabled ‘Show hidden files’ in settings to see dot-prefixed folders
- ✅ Used bookmark folders feature for frequently accessed locations
- ✅ Connected cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) for integrated access
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Android file managers access the /data partition (app data)?
Only on rooted devices. Standard Android security prevents any app (including file managers) from reading other apps’ private data folders (/data/data/) without root access. On rooted phones, Solid Explorer and MiXplorer both support root file browsing.
How do I transfer files between Android and PC wirelessly?
Solid Explorer and FX File Explorer both support FTP server mode — start an FTP server on your phone, then access it from any FTP client on your PC (FileZilla, or Windows Explorer with ftp:// URL). Alternatively, use Google Drive, Dropbox, or Files by Google’s “Send to PC” feature.
Does Files by Google replace the default file manager?
On Pixel phones, Files by Google is the default file manager. On Samsung, Xiaomi, and other manufacturer phones, it supplements the pre-installed file manager. Both can coexist — use whichever is more convenient for the task.
Conclusion
Solid Explorer is the recommendation for anyone who manages files regularly — the dual-pane view and network drive support are genuinely useful. For casual use, Files by Google handles everyday needs well and helps identify files to delete. MiXplorer is the best free alternative for power users willing to install from outside the Play Store.
For more Android tips, see our guides on Android tips and tricks and the best Android apps.