For many Android users, a file manager is one of the most important tools on their phone. A good file manager helps users move files, clean up space, and connect to other devices. CX File Explorer does this well. It gives a simple design, clean storage view, and easy network tools. But not everyone needs the same thing.
Some people want more features. Others want something easier or lighter. So, it helps to look at other file manager apps. Each has strengths and weaknesses. This guide shows the top CX File Explorer alternatives, so users can choose the right one for them.
For Premium Users: Solid Explorer
Some people are okay with paying if they get a clean, strong app in return. Solid Explorer fits this need.
Key Feature: Solid Explorer has a dual-pane mode. This means when users turn their phone sideways, they see two windows at once. Files can be moved between these windows easily, just like on a computer. That saves time and makes organizing simple.
Best For: People who move files a lot—between phone memory, SD cards, and cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox.
What’s Different From CX: Solid Explorer is not free. It gives a trial, then asks for payment. Also, while it does have file encryption, setting it up can feel harder than CX’s simple network setup.
So, if someone wants a file manager with a polished look and smooth file transfers, Solid Explorer is a good pick. But it may not suit those who want free tools without setup steps.
For Advanced Users: MiXplorer
Some users want full control over their file manager. They want to customize how it looks, what it does, and how it connects. MiXplorer is made for them.
Key Feature: MiXplorer is all about add-ons. Users can add tools for reading PDFs, playing videos, opening special archives, or connecting to rare cloud services. It lets users build their own toolset.
Best For: People who enjoy tweaking every part of the app. Also great for tech users and developers who want powerful scripts or custom tasks.
What’s Different From CX: MiXplorer has many menus and options. This can confuse people who just want to see their downloads or move a few photos. CX File Explorer, on the other hand, shows data clearly from the start and doesn’t need extra steps.
MiXplorer is strong, but it’s not simple. So, it works better for users who know what they’re doing or want to learn more.
For Casual Users: Files by Google
Key Feature: The app focuses on cleaning. It shows cards suggesting files to delete—like memes, big videos, or repeated files. It uses Google’s tools to help make space fast.
Not everyone wants a big tool. Some users only want to clean junk or delete large files. Files by Google fits this need.
Best For: People who just want to free up space. They don’t care about folders or connecting to other devices. They just want a cleaner phone.
What’s Different From CX: Files by Google is simple but limited. It doesn’t support FTP servers, shared network drives, or extra connections. CX gives all that with a few taps.
Files by Google is easy and quick. But for users who want network tools or full storage control, it may not be enough.
For Old-School Users: Total Commander
Some users want what they already know. They don’t care about looks or smooth icons. They want tools that work. That’s where Total Commander comes in.
Key Feature: The app looks old but works well. It skips modern design for a tool-packed screen. It supports plugins for tasks like opening ISO files or connecting to network drives.
Best For: Long-time Windows users who used Total Commander before. They will feel at home here.
What’s Different From CX: The app feels dated. It’s text-heavy, and not friendly to those used to swipes or modern icons. CX is more visual and touch-friendly.
Still, Total Commander is trusted and strong. If a user wants full control with no fancy design, this is a good fit.
Feature Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | CX File Explorer | Solid Explorer | Files by Google | MiXplorer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Focus | Storage view + Network | Dual-pane layout | Simple clean-up | Custom plugins |
| Price | Free | Trial + Paid | Free | Free / Paid |
| Network (SMB/FTP) | Yes (Native) | Yes (Plugin) | Limited | Yes |
| Storage View | Ring chart | List view | Clean-up cards | Grid/List view |
| Ads | None | None (Paid) | None | None |
Why Many Users Still Choose CX File Explorer
Even with so many apps out there, many users return to CX File Explorer. It does a lot without making things hard.
Easy to Understand Storage View: Some apps just list folders. CX shows a pie chart of your storage. You can tap a category like “Videos” and see what’s inside. This helps users know what’s using space.
One-Tap Network Setup: Many apps need plugins or setup steps for FTP or SMB. With CX, users can start these tools quickly. It works well with Windows, Mac, or Linux without hassle.
Runs Well on Any Device: Not everyone has a new phone. CX uses less memory and works smoothly, even on older Android devices.
These reasons make CX File Explorer a strong everyday tool. It hits a balance. It’s not too simple or too complex. It works out of the box but still gives useful features.
Conclusion
The Android app world gives users many choices. That’s a good thing. If someone needs split-screen file moves, Solid Explorer does the job. If someone wants to change everything and write custom tasks, MiXplorer is great. For fast clean-ups, Files by Google is very easy. And Total Commander helps those who like classic tools.
But for users who want something in the middle—easy to use, no ads, with great network features—CX File Explorer remains a top choice. It gives the tools most people need without extra weight. And it shows storage in a way that makes sense.
So, the best file manager depends on what each user wants. But CX File Explorer still covers the needs of many, from casual users to people who know tech.