Revolutionize File Management on Windows 11 with the Files App

Let’s face it! The File Explorer on Windows 11 isn’t winning any awards for perfection. While the modern aesthetics are nice, they've come at the cost of practicality. Features like the top ribbon have been neutered and many useful functionalities, such as the full right-click context menu, feel more like a relic of the past. If you’re longing for the efficiency of earlier Windows versions, but want to dabble with some newer functionality like tabs, then the Files app may just be your new best friend.

Files App: A Breath of Fresh Air​

Enter the Files app—not to be confused with Apple’s offering of the same name. This standalone third-party alternative seamlessly integrates modern aesthetics with a set of enhanced functionalities. It’s a much-appreciated replacement for the default File Explorer, giving you the best of both worlds. Plus, it's completely free if you download it from the official site!

Standout Features​

Here’s what makes the Files app stand out:

• Continue Where You Left Off
• One of the coolest features is its ability to remember your last opened folders. This nifty functionality allows you to dive straight back into your usual workspace without scrolling through stacks of directories. Just imagine how much time you save when you don’t have to navigate back to that folder you temporarily closed!
• Tags for Instant Organization
• The built-in tagging system offers a revolutionary way to categorize files, freeing you from outdated folder hierarchies. You can associate multiple tags with any file or folder, letting you find what you need faster. The app provides a robust default tagging system, but also allows you to create as many custom tags as you want. Who knew tidying your digital life could be this satisfying?
• View Folder Sizes at a Glance
• Unlike its Microsoft counterpart, the Files app can display folder sizes at a glance. While this feature might slow down performance slightly since calculating sizes can be resource-intensive, it is an invaluable option for those who like immediate context for their directories. No more hovering over folders or opening properties!
• Customization Galore
• Who doesn’t love an app that lets you personalize its appearance? The Files app allows users to toggle between light and dark themes, apply color changes, and even set custom backgrounds with varying opacity. A visually appealing experience awaits!
• Home Widgets for Organized Access
• The Home page of the Files app isn’t just minimalistic fluff; it’s arranged with functionality in mind. Incorporating Widgets—which can include tags, favorites, and recent items—it ensures that commonly accessed directories are always within reach. It’s a welcome improvement over the restrictions of the old File Explorer layout.
• Split View for Enhanced Multitasking
• You regularly find yourself transferring files between folders? The split view feature in the Files app makes this process streamlined and efficient by allowing you to view two folders side by side. This simple addition cuts down on extraneous clicks, saving precious time during file operations.

Overcoming Some Hiccups​

Despite its robust features, the Files app does come with its frustrations. Users have reported slower performance compared to the native Windows File Explorer, especially when dealing with larger directories. However, on a reasonably potent machine, the difference is hardly noticeable. End-users also encountered issues like being unable to rename multiple files in previous versions, but thankfully, this has been rectified in the latest update.

Third-Party Integrations​

The Files app doesn’t just stop there. It also supports integration with several third-party tools like Listary for quick searches and QuickLook for previewing files with the click of the space bar. While these integrations aren't officially endorsed, they significantly enrich the user experience.

Bringing It All Home​

In summary, the Files app reinvents the file management experience for Windows 11 users. With its attention to aesthetics and usability, it not only fills in the gaps left by the default File Explorer but also serves as a fantastic alternative that could well become your primary file management utility. If you’re keen to breathe new life into your file navigation chores, the Files app is worth a download. It’s finally time to elevate your file management game!
Source: The Android Soul Meet Files, Your New File Explorer App For Windows 11