Mac users frequently look for effective file organization apps other than the default Finder when it comes to optimizing file management. Whether that means better-organizing files, accessing hidden system folders, or managing multiple cloud services, having a strong free file manager for Mac that multi-tasks and works efficiently for your desired needs can save you lots of time and effort. The good news? You can find one that most matches your needs by scoping out this list of the top options.
What Is The Use Of File Manager?
macOS Finder may be functional, but those looking for more features have generally avoided it. Finder lacks dual-pane views, batch renaming, or deep integration with many third-party cloud services. You can do this with advanced file managers.
1. Unhide hidden files and folders with ease.
2. A universal file manager app supports Google Drive, Dropbox, and more
3. Dual-pane views for drag-and-drop copying of files
4. Upload files via FTP or SFTP without an external app.
Top Free File Managers for Mac
Commander One
Commander One: Commander One is one of the best free file managers for Mac. It comes with a dual-pane interface which means you can easily drag and drop files between different directories. Enables file searching, has compression tools, and hidden files support Commander One. The free version is complete for day-to-day use, but users can upgrade to the PRO version to enable FTP and cloud storage integration.
Features Of Commander One
File transfer is easy with a dual-pane view.
Access Hidden Files in one click
Spotlight: Quick File Search for Mac Users
Create your own hotkeys for fast navigation.
Fman
Fman is a fast, dual-pane file manager for Mac. Its user-friendly interface is minimal, so watching videos in general would be a wuhuzza thing to do. Fman doesn’t have the same scope of features as Commander One, but it’s very focused on being a simple and lightweight file manager, just like DiskAid.
Key Features of Fman:
Low weight and fast in performance.
Split navigation view for double-pane browser.
Support for multiple platforms (Windows, Linux).
muCommander
muCommander: A powerful, free, open-source file manager that runs on multiple platforms. Presenting a double pane interface, we all like to use if you want something that is not the finder. muCommander is a versatile file manager that supports various archive formats and lets you connect to FTP, SFTP, and cloud storage.
Key Features of muCommander:
Supports Compressed files (ZIP, TAR, et al.)
Integration: FTP, SFTP, SMB and a number of cloud services
File management made easy with keyboard shortcuts
Cross-platform (macOS, Windows, and Linux).
XtraFinder
XtraFinder extends macOS Finder, providing additional features that enhance the functionality of its native equivalent. XtraFinder adds dual-pane browsing. Cut-and-paste functionality and more to the default Finder interface. A great option for users who don’t want to switch from Finder but still need some flexibility.
Key Features of XtraFinder:
Dual pane browsing to Finder.
File operations copy and paste
Combine folders and rename files
Better user experience with a fully customizable Interface
How to Choose the Best Free File Manager?
You will have to choose based on what you are looking for. If you need FTP or cloud integration, muCommander and Commander One are the best available options. If you lust over speedy, no-frills tools, Fman may be up your alley for those who like Finder but want more advanced features. XtraFinder offers the perfect balance by expanding Finder’s capabilities.
When it comes to what is the best free file manager, ask yourself:
Do I need dual-pane browsing?
Do FTP or SFTP servers use item numbers?
The difference with cloud THEN is that I am now dealing with a multitude of these services.
Do I Work with Regularly used File Formats?
10 Questions to Answer Before Using Multimedia(Opens in a new browser tab)
Conclusion
On macOS, Finder is okay at best for basic file management, but there are free alternatives such as Commander One (mentioned earlier). The previously covered Fman, muCommander and XtraFinder (mentioned in our list). Both of them come with their signature capabilities depending on the workflow for which you are using it.
Commander One offers interface features and advanced functionalities that no other free file manager for Mac provides. Which makes it the best free file manager for Mac offering a dual-pane interface with power. It’s easy to use, and though the free version is limited, it provides more than enough for day-to-day file management.
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