xplorer2 2.4.0.0

Overview

Xplorer ² is a powerful, feature-rich desktop file manager that provides a number of advantages over the conventional Windows Explorer. In fact, this award-winning software has gained a lot of recognition in the online world, receiving the accolade PC World Editor's Choice, and a CNET Five-Star Download award. Let's see how it does in our review!

Installation

Incredibly, this comprehensive software has a file size of less than 1 MB, so it can be installed in just a few minutes time by computer users of all skill levels. Xplorer ² is compatible with almost all versions of Windows, including 95, 98, 2000, XP, Vista, 7, and NT.

Interface

The user interface of this incredible file manager is perhaps its greatest strength. In fact, since you have the freedom to adjust literally every aspect of the interface, it would be virtually impossible for someone to say they don't like the appearance or functionality of Xplorer², as they could simply change it to suit their likings.

Pros

• Lets you create dual folder tabs and panes to facilitate more efficient file management

• Automatically synchronize the contents of multiple folders, so you can save/update files within several folders simultaneously

• Quickly search for and delete duplicate files to free up disk space

• Supports file name color-coding that facilitates improved organization

• You can customize every visual aspect of the interface, including toolbar buttons, keyboard shortcuts, and skins. For example, you can create multiple toolbars from scratch, with each one containing dozens of useful, easily accessible icon buttons.

• Is lightweight and compact so it doesn't drain a lot of system resources

• Integrated desktop search lets you use a plethora of criteria to find content in your operating system

• Compatible with 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems

• You can quickly select multiple files without having to hold down the control key

• Supports Unicode

• Utilizes NTFS hard links instead of conventional shortcuts, which are faster and more effective

• Includes a shell namespace browser

• Quickly preview documents, videos, images, songs, and any file type within a scrolling tab that displays multiple previews simultaneously

• Instantly filter folder contents to display only the types of files that you are trying to work with

• All fields support autocompletion, so you don't even have to finish typing most of the time

• Includes a comprehensive instructional PDF that thoroughly teaches you how to use each feature

Cons

• Creating custom commands can be a difficult process

• Displays a single folder pane on the top by default, although the interface can be adjusted to display two panes relatively easily

Alternatives

There are a number of file managers available for Windows, including EF Commander Free or Full, Total Commander, muCommander, and of course the default Windows Explorer. Of these alternatives, Total Commander is a worthy competitor, although the final judge is always you, the end-user.

Conclusion

This incredibly handy file manager makes an ideal replacement for Windows Explorer, and can help anyone improve their productivity by providing a plethora of useful features within a personalized interface.