Can you imagine your Mac without Finder? It might be difficult, but not entirely impossible. After all, Finder isn’t the only file manager for macOS. Yes, you can get a lot out of this software, but the program offers the bare minimum features. Some users also encounter the notorious Mac Finder not responding issue, where they have to restart their system, update macOS, clear files to create storage space, or reconfigure Finder.
However, you don’t have to feel stuck because Finder is constantly crashing and freezing. Instead, you can turn to other third-party file managers that offer advanced features. You might even find them better than Mac Finder. So let’s take a look.
Forklift 3
Forklift 3 focuses on mass file handling, syncing, and background operations. This file manager is a great alternative to Finder as it can seamlessly sync two target folders without human intervention. In addition, it can compare folders to determine disparities, and batch renaming is another useful feature offered by this file manager. Forklift can transfer files over WebDAV, FTP, and SFTP.
Editing files on remote servers, mass file renaming, syncing folders, and comparing folders are some of the notable features of this file manager. In addition, the software works in the background and will not interfere with your ongoing programs. There’s a free trial that you can use, and if you like the software, you can get the full license at $29.95.
Commander One
Commander One is renowned as one of the best file managers for MacBooks, thanks to its wide range of useful features and user-friendly UI. This file manager is well-suited for work with FTPS, SFTP, FTP, and WebDAV. It also works with cloud drives and allows users to access their remote files easily. In addition, the Terminal can be accessed directly from the application, and you can manage tasks and archives in the same window.
The composite two-panel interface is user-friendly, and the files can be managed with drag-and-drop controls. Hidden files can be accessed with a simple toggling option. You can even open multiple files and folders in a single window. In addition, there are configurable hotkeys and advanced search options.
Path Finder
Path Finder is another great Finder alternative, and its features are ideal for casual users seeking effective but simple improvements in their file management and browsing. For example, the Drop Stack is a temporary copy buffer that collects files from various directories before they are subjected to the same operation. In the File Transfer Queue, you can look at the progress tracker to see the progress made, which is quite convenient. You can even view the progress in separate windows or choose to place a widget on the toolbar. The app brings some advanced functionalities for power users that you can unlock by paying $36.
Some of the features of this file manager are OpenMeta file tagging capabilities, advanced user rights management with ACL lists, modular design, complete multi-pass file detection, a browser-like interface with bookmarks and tabs, etc. Additionally, there’s a thirty-day trial period that you can utilize to get the hang of this application.
XtraFinder
XtraFinder continues to introduce minor upgrades to improve the user experience. For example, the app comes with adjustable columns and a copy queue. Thanks to this feature, the app can support multiple operations at once. So, you can browse, move and copy files while other operations are ongoing. Another unique addition is window transparency. You can check out the free version and then unlock the full version by paying $4.99.
Nimble Commander
Nimble Commander is a file manager that can be fully customized to suit your specific requirements. You can personalize the app functionally and visually. The visuals vary widely, from varied interface colors and font sizes to imitating the old text-based appearance. In addition, you can enjoy powerful features like Sudo mode, attribute editing, and hex file viewing.
The top features of this file manager are the capability of editing file ownership and other related attributes, working in admin mode without using the Terminal, viewing system information, switching to the classic look, etc. You can install the app from the App Store.
CRAX Commander
CRAX Commander is a file manager offering a combination of tabs and dual panes to make users versatile. Most of the bars and panels can be hidden when you want, so there’s more free space on your screen. This will augment the visibility. You can even utilize the advanced search feature of the application and the built-in text editor.
The file manager can access all the folders across the network and highlight them in different colors to distinguish between their types. The notable features include a text editor with highlighted code syntax, two panes with tabs and bookmarks, etc.
If you like the free demo, you can unlock premium features for $19.99.
So, how many Mac Finder alternatives have you been using or heard of? These can make your life easier when Finder decides to give you a hard time.
