User Reviews

  Great  

• Interface: 4
• Features: 4
• Ease of use: 4
• Value: 4
• Overall:

The Nerve of some people. Give them something for nothing, and they expect everything. Tightwads.. Well Free Commander, is very much like Norton Commander. Minus a couple features. Aside all that it is very versatile. If your looking for better, then spend 30, or 40 bucks, and get total commander, or WinNC. I use both WinNC, and freeware. WinNC is more complex then this, but that's the difference between free and trial. Want free, then expect basic. Want more then expect to spend money.

  Explorer free!  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

FreeCommander is, like it says, free! I give it five stars = it doesn't embed explorer.exe like other programs! That means you can use it even if explorer is crashed. It is easy to use, and you get features like compare folder and synchronize that you would only get in a shareware if you paid. Great job!

  A remarkable file explorer  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

A remarkable file explorer. It has everything a good file explorer should have. It is fast and stable. Its system requirements are minimal. Interface can be easily customized to personal preferences. And of course, it is free!

  Best free total commander replacement  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 4
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

I was looking for a long time for a free replacement of Total Commander. Obviously, Free Commander was what I needed. Too bad I did not find it earlier.

  Definitely belongs to one`s utility set  

• Interface: 4
• Features: 4
• Ease of use: 3
• Value: 5
• Overall:

I have been using this file management program regularly for quite awhile. It definitely is worth having in one's tools set as an addition for managing one's files. Nothing is perfect, though. But considering the zero price FreeCommander is outright excellent. Well, using the file comparison is somewhat complicated and one would like optionally to be able to enter folder names by typing besides the browsing. The number of features included is impressive, especially for freeware. It definitely adds what strangely is missing from e.g. XP's default file management and what we used to have in the old days in the 16-bit Windows 3.11. My compliments to the authors.

  Great for mp3 players  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

This is just what i was looking for to replace the bulky crap software that comes with hardware mp3 players. The manufacturer integrates the install with the driver install, so most non-techie users think they have to use the 'super dooper mp3 copier to player bulk-o-matic" to populate their player with music. When most mp3 players will simply open within windows explorer. Music collection in one pane, mp3 player in the other, copy/paste, can't get any easier.

  Bravo  

• Interface: 4
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 4
• Value: 4
• Overall:

Bravo, nice tools. Just like Norton Commander but FreeCommander can do more. easy to use, I wish next version of FreeCommander can handle file via FTP like WinSCP

  It just keeps getting better  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

FreeCommander has always been a solid and stable product. With the latest release the interface has been updated with support for ClearType (making it easier to read) and even more user-customizable functions to speed up access to the things you do most often. You can go to the FreeCommander site to get a portable version (for USB install) as well as a Zip version for manual install (and to see images of the new release--the images here at SnapFiles are for the older releases). Love it!

  Congratulations!  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

I don't know how I lived without it till now...Excellent program!

  Fast, stable and portable  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

Been using for years, and am using current version as my main file manager. I like that it stores setting in an ini file, so you can run it off a usb or just drop the program dir on another computer and start using it.

  Very very good  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

I believe this is the best freeware (donationware) explorer replacement, very powerful yet light and easy to use.

  Fantastic  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 4
• Value: 5
• Overall:

This would have to be the best thing since sliced bread. It has so many options and dose what a file manager should do - manage files. The only thing I have found is ir takes some tome to change from the explorer way of doing things and that some of the standard explorer items such as viewing all drives in My Computer could be made available (it should be noted the functions of My Computer are available elsewhere).

  Excellent but...  

• Interface: 3
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

The only bad thing I have to say about this great explorer, is the not so good GUI, which by the way it will be improved in the next release.Otherwise, it's a great replacement for the windows explorer, not as complete as Accelman - but in some ways, more practical. I use it very often and I am satisfied with it.

  So far, so... fair.  

• Interface: 2
• Features: 2
• Ease of use: 2
• Value: 3
• Overall:

Hey Fellas! These glowing reports made me expect quite a lot with a new file manger under active development but in real life it's just a nice programming exercise, so far. We all know what the standard against which fC will be judged is - and fC is a toy. An odd mix of colours and a loafer in the video speed stakes. Then we have a unique set of clashing keystrokes - ok some are the same (where's Spacebar for folder size and Enter in shortcuts, and a multi-tabbed interface?) BTW Alt-F9 checks a zip's integrity. Is Help going to move from F1? And so many missing subtleties. The Standard is The Standard! Otherwise the market is cut in half. I expected to be halfway up the cliff face, but I'm having to start at the bottom. Ho hum..

  Excellent software  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

I have tried several file management systems, and this one is comparable if not better than ones I paid close to $50 for. As soon as I get some cash, I'm certainly going to make a donation!!

  Power tool for everyone !  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 4
• Value: 5
• Overall:

Excellent tool ! The synchro feature is absolutely GREAT ! Ideal to compare directories, update backup files or directory, USB key content ! Amazingly easy to use, this is one of the great features of this wonderful soft. Compare directories, sub directories by date or CRC !! A must have !

  Balanced  

• Interface: 4
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

What made me choose FC: - A very clean UI - "My Network Places" is now supported as an additional drive - It lets you save "Layouts", which are "snapshots" of the program. Say you split the windows horizontally and select two folders. Then you save a layout, and go back to your regular view. You reselect the layout and everything is rearranged - It has a *powerful* synchronize tool - "Favorites Tools" is greatly implemented. You can easily send parameters like current folder or file to the utility (Winmerge in my case) - Very well mapped shortcuts (customizable) In time,I started finding little things here and there: - Select files with same extension (than the one that's selected) - Clicking the path bar, brings a history list. Clicking on a section of the path, it takes you to the selected parent folder (GREAT) - "View only selected files" A very usable, very useful program. Get it.

  The best !  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

I have tried all free file managers and some sharewares. Even if xplorer2 light has some interesting extra-features, FreeCommander interface is the best compromise between clarity and the number of features. Its embedded compression-decompresssion tool is fast and realy clever. Excellent search tool, no intrusion into the registry, entirely customizable shortcuts, "dual pane" favorites and so. Indeed the best I have tried.

  A real gem, this one  

• Interface: 4
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 4
• Value: 5
• Overall:

Been looking for a good file program since before computers were invented. This is it, with it's two file menu screens together it saves opening multiple programs and you can select drives and move files easily from on drive or folder to another. Great for cleaning up the mess I always seem to build. I have 3 disk drives on my machine which are divided into 10 drives. A fantastic program to manage these drives. If your computer files are always neat and tidy, or you don't have very many, then forget it, but if, like me, you can't keep your folders or drives clean then this is for you. Oh yeah, it's stable too.

  What file management ought to be..  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

Forget the niggling gripes of previous versions. I used 2005.09a and it was awesome. This 2006.06 release is just over the top because the issues have been addressed. Mr. Jasinski is a very conscientious programmer. Customizable in view and functions and shortcuts (saves the ol' mouse hand). It's worth every one of the 5 stars - I'd give it 6 just because it's free! C'mon SnapFiles reviewers: update the rating. You know it's that good.

  This freebie rocks  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

It's an absolutely outstanding Windows Explorer replacement. The features and settings are simply too many to list, but among the things it offers in addition to standard Windows Explorer are dual pane capability, file/folder compare and synchronization, desktop snapshot capability, compression and decompression of files (in a choice of formats), etc, etc. freeCommander stores it's settings in an INI file instead of trashing up the registry like most do - a big plus as far as I am concerned. Believe me, the list goes on. And this baby is FREE on top of everything else. GET IT NOW !

  Outstanding and free  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

I consider myself a power user and have tried many, many file management apps over the years. There are only a very few that get my approval, and freeCommander is one of the best. It's solid, flexible, and does virtually everything you would want. Even though it is extremely powerful, it doesn't feel at all bloated or confusing. One thing it does nicely is display the directory sizes if you choose. This feature is fantastic when you're burning a data DVD and you want to know if your large directories will fit on the disk. freeCommander is also perfect to compare the finished DVD with the original files. I use it daily, you will too. Once you start using it you'll wonder how you got along without it. This freebie is a definite "keeper."

  What doesnt this software do?  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

It does everything you could ever want. On the homepage it lists the features and they are excellent. Nothing has been left out. I use it for synchronizing folders and so much more. Get it and you will love it as much as I do.

  Totally impressive but...  

• Interface: 4
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

...just a little thing to suggest here : in Windows Explorer, I used to "go back one level" using the fifth button on the left side on my Logitech mouse. In FC this can be done with the "Backspace" button. Any way I could reassign this function to the fifth button on my mouse?

  For those who update frequently  

• Interface: 3
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

The right tool to save to favorites you pairs of folders that you frequently update and compare. A very good tool in every feature made with care and attention to practice. Thanks

  I'm in heaven  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

Found this little jewel a few days ago, and can't believe it is this good. Very flexible and so customizable it's ridiculous. What can't it do? Get it and see for yourself. The fact that it's free, is just icing on the cake.

  Not for me  

• Interface: 1
• Features: 1
• Ease of use: 1
• Value: 3
• Overall:

Does not remember folder view (Details/Icons/Thumbnails/etc) settings. FreeCommander's version of thumbnail view ("Images" View) ignore files that are not images (if the file is not an image then it is not represented in any way in the "Image" view, it is effectively hidden).

  I love it!  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

I have been using [..] for years (aka Windows Commander) and FreeCommander is now at a point where it is time to move over to it. It has certain things integrated (such as image support) that other "pay" file managers would make you buy via plugin. Two things that I do miss however. One being the copy, move, edit and so on buttons on the bottom of the program that Total Commander has. Another being an option to make the program confirm a drag and drop (very useful if you have kids that play around when you are away) and finally, it's own copy/move operations. Let me explain that one: FreeCommander seems to be using Windows internal copy/move functions, while when you copy or move with Total Commander, Servant Salamander, or even Turbo Navigator, they use their own integrated method of copy and move, which seems quicker and gives you more detailed info on the copy process as well.

  Best thing since sliced bread  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

I practically teethed on Norton Commander and a variety of its clones. For the past few years I'd been using Turbo Navigator, but it wasn't being developed. And while it was good, it needed development. This is the program I've been looking for. After using it for a week or two now, I can say it's won me over. I use it every day. And will be for years to come. For those of you who like managing your files with dual panes, this is the only way to go (especially for the price!).

  A very good software  

• Interface: 4
• Features: 4
• Ease of use: 4
• Value: 4
• Overall:

Its a very good software. Easy to use and offers many features. I agree with the review regarding the FTP manager. I also think that multiple tabs is also a good feature for users. I recommend using the software. Dan

  Superb!  

• Interface: 3
• Features: 4
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

FreeCommander is a very good and easy program. If there was a ftp-explorer implemented it would even outperform [..]. If you dont need ftp its superb! Easy to use easy to understand. So go on, get it, use it!

  Try it !!!!  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

I use it on win98 , I am not sure about some of the comments here - I can choose single pane and it works fine on drag and drop with me ? . I'am a long time trying to escape explorer , now that I found free commander I cant see myself ever using anything else - its quick , compact , solid , clean , intelligent and does all I need and a bit more. This guy has done what Microsoft can't do - hes produced a decent file manager

  Excellent  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

Best freeware file manager out there. All that's missing is a help menu, although it's easy to use and understand without one.

  I'm in love  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

As of today, I am switching to Free Commander for all of my daily file management chores. It's the best yet. No registry clutter, no BS of any kind, just lots of functionality and configurability. Yeah!

  Free as bird!  

• Interface: 4
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

The best value for this tool is "Folder Size"-it can show it all!

  Especially good for search and syncronization  

• Interface: 3
• Features: 4
• Ease of use: 2
• Value: 5
• Overall:

This is a generally excellent file manager - a good range of facilities additional to Windows explorer. It's search facility is better: you can fully specify date ranges and file attributes to search. The folder synchronize feature has a feature that I have not seen in any other synchronizer. Most synchronizers operate in both directions together, i.e. they synchronize two folders left->right AND right->left at the same time. Freecommander lets you distinguish either left->right OR right->left OR both. This is useful to create a backup folder when you want to copy from the source to the backup, but not vice versa. The only problem with synchronize is that you cannot set it to ignore small differences in timestamp, a feature that most other synchronizers have. It conflicted with Norton Antivirus on my Win98 system. It has some bugs when deleting folders: the view is not always updated correctly. But overall this is a program I use every day.

  Networked computers not visible  

• Interface: 4
• Features: 3
• Ease of use: 3
• Value: 5
• Overall:

Excellent program for stand-alone computers, but not too useful if you have multiple computers on a network. I could find no way to view drives on other computers. No help file that I saw.

  The best file manger around!  

• Interface: 5
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

FreeCommander is very fast, flexible and a VERY easy to use two panels file manager. For those who love Norton Commander, this is a suitable replacement. It has many keyboard shortcuts for keyboard users. It can remember those folders you visit often by adding them to your favorite. You can also saves the layout, including current active/inactive folders. When right click on a file/folder, it gives complete Explorer right click context menu. It does not use too much memory as Explorer does and it does not have a built-in browser. It performs one function - File Manager and it does an marvelous job. There are many file managers, free and otherwise. freeCommander is the best you can find!

  Simple and fast  

• Interface: 4
• Features: 4
• Ease of use: 4
• Value: 5
• Overall:

I have used other more costly programs and gotten a fraction of the features. This programs takes me back to the dual panel days of File Manager or the modern day PowerDesk software. I had no problem using the software right away and it is fast!!!! Drag and drop works great in every direction. It sees all my drives - network and otherwise. Top notch software. If only everything worked this well.

  Easy to learn, excellent features  

• Interface: 4
• Features: 5
• Ease of use: 5
• Value: 5
• Overall:

I had tried other dual-pane Explorer substitutes, but they seemed to me no better than running two instances of Windows Explorer. Then I found freeCommander, and it suits me perfectly. The view-as-thumbnails (up to 150x150 big) convinced me to try-it-out/learn-it seriously, because it supports Paint Shop Pro images as well as bmp, gif, jpg, png, most icon files, etc. Now I don't have to open a graphics application just to check on the location of a photo or icon. FreeCommander also opens zip (& other compressed) files, re-cases a folder's files (either whole filename or just extension), and is just plain useful. The author deserves a lot of credit for packing in features yet leaving the UI nice and clean. The PSP thumbnails and freeCommander's stability combine to make the application better, actually, than I'd hoped when I downloaded it.

  Very good file manager.  

• Interface: 4
• Features: 4
• Ease of use: 3
• Value: 5
• Overall:

IMHO, is one of the best free file managers for Windows. I would rate it all as "Excellent" if I had these features: - "Desktop" level (direct access to "My Documents", "My Computer", "My Network Places" etc.); - Back/Forward buttons; - customizable hotkeys/hotkeys presets; - customizable toolbar; However, first, I was told by the author that most of these features will be implemented soon. Second, freeCommander has many other useful features. And third, as freeware applications it is more than usable, convenient and has a pretty good list of features.

  Excellent program!!!  

• Interface: 4
• Features: 4
• Ease of use: 4
• Value: 5
• Overall:

The program is great, I use it all the time, the only thing I think it should be fixed is the dual panel. I think freecommander should have the option to disable it, because you don't need it all the time and sometimes it gets a bit annoying. By the rest.. it's amazing, download it, you won't be disappointed.

  The most stable windows explorer replacement