There is a Windows Explorer and Finder on Mac. Both work and both are free. So if you only want to copy some files and folders from a USB drive, it's enough.
And Microsoft improved the built-in File Explorer many times. It got the ribbon toolbar, can unzip files, access ISOs, and more. Plus, it also looks much better than it used to.
But I started working with the computer back when MS-DOS was THE SYSTEM. My first file manager was Volkov/Norton commander. And I wanted something similar. For me, especially something with a dual-panel environment.
So I have started looking for an alternative file manager. Something more powerful to manage files.
In the past, there used to be only one great alternative: Total Commander (used to be Windows Commander). Unfortunately, not free, shareware. The other options were not so great.
But now, there are several good file managers with great functionality. Scroll down and choose the best one for your needs.
two-panel file manager for Windows. It has an intuitive interface, offers viewers for all popular file formats as well as support for common archives, and has built-in FTP and SFTP clients. Started as Servant Salamander and used to be a shareware. Recently changed and now is free for both commercial and non-commercial usage.
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a free program for managing files and archives that works in a text mode. If you do remember DOS with Norton Commander/Volkov Commander you should check it out.
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two-panel manager and FTP client for Windows.
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multi-tabbed file manager that uses very popular and efficient dual-panel layout. It has all the standard features like a file manager has like copy, move, rename, view. But Multi Commanders big strength is the special features that allow you to do advanced task with ease. Like Auto-unpacking , Auto-sorting , Browse inside archives, registry and FTP, Search for file, View files and pictures and the Scripting support let you automate many task. And it allows you to do everything from the keyboard using shortcut so you can work fast and efficient.
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freeware file manager for Windows. Two panel interface, unicode support, archives support, built-in FTP client, drag&drop and more.
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