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GTU list: Best file manager apps for Android in January 2018

Managing files can be a little cumbersome if you have too many of them, be it on your computer or your Android smartphone. While companies bundle their own file managers on Android smartphones, often they are not good enough. They can get the job done, but a decent file manager offers a lot more than just basic functionality these days.

You can have advanced features like file sharing, moving, storage cleanup and even cloud backup and access. Keeping these parameters in mind, the GTU team has come up with a list of the 5 best file manager apps for Android.

Astro File Manager

At just 7MB in size, Astro is one of the older and more fine-tuned file manager apps out there. We have it on top of our list because it is free and does not show any advertisements. With Astro, you get the entire basic functionality including root access for free.

Astro File Manager

Astro File Manager

You can browse files by categories like Music, Videos, Documents, etc. Astro also supports major cloud service like Box, Google Drive, Dropbox, Facebook, and OneDrive.


Download Astro File Explorer from the Google Play Store here for free.

Amaze File Manager

Amaze is also a light and easy file manager, which is just 4.5MB in size. With a material UI, this is an easy-to-use file explorer and comes with all the basic functions. You can switch between Grid and List view or set the theme to light, dark, or daytime.

Amaze File Manager

Amaze File Manager

On the downside, Amaze comes with pop-up advertisements that can sometimes be annoying. However, if you’re looking for a simple and elegant file manager and have no problem with ads, you can download Amaze File Manager here.

Total Commander

While this file manager comes with no fancy UI, it is the lightest with just 1.5MB size. Total Commander is a simple file manager and does not support cloud services out of the box. However, for advanced users, it is a good deal as you can add extensions to it.

Total Commander

Total Commander

While the app itself is devoid of advertisements, the UI can be a little boring. That said, it is free so you cannot really ask for more.

Download Total Commander for Android here.

Files Go by Google

The recently launched Files Go from Google is a good file explorer. While this is not a fully functioning explorer, it is compact and multifunctional. You can transfer files using Files Go without internet.

FilesGo By Google

FilesGo By Google

Files Go also helps you clean up storage space on your smartphone. However, you cannot use it as a primary file manager, but you can browse through different categories like Images, Videos, Audio, Apps etc.

Download Files Go by Google here.

Solid Explorer

Solid Explorer is the last in the list just because you have to pay a little for it. However, with the amazing functionality and sleek UI, it is worth it. Solid Explorer is available for free in the form of a 14-day free trial, and right now, you can purchase it for Rs. 10 thanks to a 50% sale. The regular price of the app is just Rs. 20, though, which is a steal given all the features that Solid Explorer offers.

Solid Explorer

Solid Explorer

Talking about functionality, Solid Explorer gives you Root access, allows you to add cloud services and it is completely ad-free. It is highly customizable and comes with the ability to read and extract ZIP, 7ZIP, RAR and TAR archives, even encrypted ones.

Download Solid Explorer for Android here.

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Abhishek Bhatnagar

Abhishek Bhatnagar, a known technology blogger & YouTuber from India. A Software Engineer by qualification, now he works as the editor-In-Chief, Webmaster, & Managing Director at Gadgets To Use. He runs a number of other technology websites as well.