File managers set up your phone and clear things up, which is why it is better to choose apps that give you access to all your device’s data easily. For this reason, the CX File Explorer APK and X-plore are good choices. CX File Explorer is known for its simple UI design, which is why it is easy to use and organize data efficiently. With this, its cloud storage access, easy file transfer, and built-in functionality stand out in the game of file managers
On the other hand, X-plore has advanced features like dual pane, disk map, media player, and smooth file sharing, making it a better option for Android users. However, all the features are not free to use in this app. But the free version gives you enough freedom to arrange your data without any interruption.
So let’s have a look at what’s inside each of these apps!
CX File Explorer:
The app is one of the best file managers for Android and was released on Jul 11, 2018, with a file size of about 10 to 14 MB. The latest version available on the Play Store is 2.2.1, and the system requirement for Android is 5.0 and up. Luckily, the app is completely free with all of its features, like file sharing, cloud storage, and many more.
With a 4.4 rating out of 5.0, 272K reviews, and 10M+ downloads on the app store, it is one of the simplest and easiest file-organizing tools. It is especially safe to use with a data encryption feature, and no information is shared with any third-party apps. Apart from that, it is available for various platforms, like Android devices, TVs, Windows, Chromebooks, and tablets.
System Requirements:
- At least 50 MB of free storage space
- Minimum 1 GB of RAM for basic functionality
Features:
User-Friendly File Management: With its simple UI, the app allows you to organize your files and folders. Thus, browse, move, copy, compress, rename, extract, delete, create, and share your files on both internal and external storage with ease.
Cloud Storage Access: Manage your files with different cloud storage services, like FTP, FTPS, SFTP, SMB, WebDAV, and LAN, making it convenient to access your data wherever it is stored.
Visualized Storage Analysis: Particularly, the app provides a visualized storage analysis, giving you a clear overview of the space with circular ring-type graphics. Similarly, the built-in Recycle Bin aids in managing storage by recovering deleted files and cleaning up junk.
File Transfer and Compression: The transfer of files between devices connected to the same Wi-Fi network using the app’s “Send” or “Receive” options is super easy. In particular, compress files into ZIP format to reduce their size for easier storage and transfer.
App Lock and Hidden Files: It gives you the option to password-protect and hide private files for extra protection. So, make sure that no one accesses your files without your consent.
USB Port Activation: Enable the “Detect USB Connection” option in the settings menu to find data on any USB device that is connected to your phone.
Network Access: The “Access from the network” feature acts as a wireless bridge between your computer and phone. Therefore, manage the files on your phone straight from your PC by connecting both devices to the same Wi-Fi network and entering the given web URL into your computer browser.
Debugging: If you encounter any issues while using the app, enable the debug mode in the settings to resolve problems efficiently
Adding Shortcuts: With the freedom to add shortcuts to your home screen, it helps you save time and get rapid access to commonly used features.
Pros
Bug Fixes and improvements
Support storage cleaner
Improved compatibility for Android
Built-in app lock and recycle bin
User-friendly interface
Cons
Limited customization
No built-in media player
X-Plore:
X-Plore was released on July 21, 2010; its developers are Lonely Cat Games. Indeed, the app has 4.3 stars out of 5 with 249K reviews and 10 million+ downloads on the Google App Store. Typically, its version 4.38.24 requires Android 7.0 and up.
Although it offers many free features, some advanced features like a music player, disk map, vault for encrypting sensitive files, and file transfer through SSH shell and SFTP require in-app purchases for $0.99. Plus, it asks for permission to access storage, network connections, and optional root permissions for advanced features.
System Requirements:
- At least 50 MB of free storage
- Minimum of 1 GB of RAM
Features:
Dual-Pane Tree View: The File Manager offers a dual-pane interface that shows two folders simultaneously. So, file operations such as copying and moving files between directories become easy.
Root Entry: X-plore gives advanced users with rooted smartphones access to system files to perform operations like uninstalling undesired apps and backing up system data.
Cloud Storage Access: Mainly, it allows users to easily manage their cloud files by integrating with various cloud storage providers, including Dropbox, Box, Google Drive, OneDrive, and WebDAV.
Support for SMB and FTP: Users can access and manage files on FTP servers and shared folders on local networks using the app’s support for the FTP and SMB protocols.
File sharing: From anywhere within the program, exchange your files by Bluetooth, email, or any other supported channel.
File Management Operations: View, copy, move, delete, rename, generate thumbnails, and share files, among many more file operations, through this app. Meanwhile, it has a built-in PDF viewer, and users can extract files that have been compressed into the ZIP format.
App manager: Specifically, its built-in app manager enables you to view, run, copy, share, and uninstall installed applications.
Music and video player: The integrated music player has the ability to play songs from local directories and cloud storage, among other locations. However, a video player with support for subtitles is included in the app, which improves media playback.
File transfer and Wi-Fi file sharing: Secure file transfers and remote terminal access are made possible via the app’s support for SSH File Transfer (SFTP) and SSH Shell. Similarly, through WiFi, users can easily move files inside their local network by accessing files on their Android smartphone from other Android devices.
Disk Map: The Disk Map feature visually shows which files consume the most space on the device, thus helping users manage their storage efficiently.
Pros
Dual-pane interface
Cloud integration
Regular updates
Customization option
Cons
Occasional Ads
Outdated design
Personal View:
For me, Cx File Explorer is the better option due to its user-friendly design and ease of use. Thus, for routine activities, I found this app more effective than X-plore File Manager, despite the latter offering a more comprehensive feature set.
The best thing is that this file manager has no ads and is secure to use. I can easily manage my files with its free cloud integration feature. This tool is powerful yet simple for anyone searching for a file manager.
FAQ’s
Does Cx File Explorer support network-attached storage (NAS)?
Yes, it supports various NAS protocols like FTP, FTPS, SFTP, SMB, WebDAV, and LAN for data storage.
What types of files can X-Plore File Manager handle?
The app supports a wide range of file types, including ZIP, RAR, 7zip, SQLite databases, and more. It also includes built-in viewers for images, audio, text, and video files.
Does CX File Explorer support multiple tabs or windows?
No, it does not support multiple tabs or windows, but its clean interface allows easy navigation between folders.
Can I preview files before opening them in X-Plore File Manager?
Yes, X-plore File Manager has built-in viewers for images, audio, text, and video files, allowing you to preview files directly in the app.
Is there a way to automate tasks in X-plore File Manager?
X-plore File Manager does not have built-in automation features, but you can use it in conjunction with other automation tools like Tasker for more advanced workflows.
Conclusion
If you prefer simplicity and cloud storage focus, choose CX File Explorer. However, for advanced features and tech control, X-plore File Manager is ideal. Therefore, pick based on your needs; both offer well to diverse preferences.