Have you ever thought about how much more you could do with your Android device if you had the right tools? Rooting your device gives you more control, but without a good file manager, it can feel like you’re missing something important. This guide will show you the best file managers for rooted devices and how to use them to get the most out of your phone.
Table of Contents
Before we begin, make sure you have the following:
- A rooted Android device (compatible with Galaxy S21, S21 Ultra, and similar models)
- Basic understanding of rooting and file management
- Download links for the file managers listed below
Solid Explorer for Rooted Devices
Solid Explorer is like a multi-tool for your Android device—versatile and easy to use. It’s a popular choice for managing files on rooted devices.
Download and Install Solid Explorer
You can easily download Solid Explorer from the Google Play Store. Download Solid Explorer here.
After downloading and installing, you’re ready to start organizing your files.
Enable Root Access in Solid Explorer
To access all the important files on your device, you’ll need to enable root access:
- Open Solid Explorer and go to Settings.
- Scroll down to Root Access and switch it on.
Enabling root access lets Solid Explorer view and change system files that are normally hidden.
Navigating System Files with Solid Explorer
Once root access is enabled, you can start exploring:
- Tap on the menu and select Root.
- Look through system folders like
/system,/data, and/vendor.
Solid Explorer’s dual-pane mode makes it easy to move files around, just like having two windows open on your computer.
Video Aid
For a visual walkthrough of using Solid Explorer on a rooted device, check out this YouTube tutorial.
ES File Explorer for Rooted Devices
ES File Explorer was a top pick for many Android users, and even though it’s not on the Play Store anymore, it’s still worth considering if you can find it.
Download and Install ES File Explorer
Since it’s been removed from the Play Store, you’ll need to download ES File Explorer from a third-party source. Download ES File Explorer here.
This file manager still offers a lot of useful features for managing files on a rooted device.
Enable Root Explorer
To access the full range of features in ES File Explorer, you’ll need to enable the Root Explorer option:
- Open ES File Explorer and go to Tools.
- Turn on Root Explorer.
This will allow you to access and modify system files that are usually locked.
Managing System Files with ES File Explorer
Now that Root Explorer is on, you can start managing your files:
- Go to the root directory (
/) from the main screen. - You can copy, move, delete, and edit files within the system folders.
ES File Explorer also supports cloud storage, so you can easily back up your files.
MiXplorer File Manager
MiXplorer is a highly customizable file manager that offers many features for rooted devices.
Download and Install MiXplorer
MiXplorer isn’t on the Play Store, but you can get it from XDA Labs here.
It’s a favorite among advanced users because of its flexibility and features.
Enable Root Access in MiXplorer
To make full use of MiXplorer, you’ll need to enable root access:
- Open MiXplorer and go to Settings.
- Turn on Root Access under the Advanced section.
This allows you to work with system files and make changes that aren’t possible with standard file managers.
Using MiXplorer for Advanced File Management
Once root access is enabled, you can explore and manage your system files:
- Navigate through system folders by going to the root directory.
- Use MiXplorer’s tools to edit files, change permissions, and more.
MiXplorer can be customized to suit your needs, whether you’re an experienced user or just starting out.
FX File Explorer
FX File Explorer is known for its simple interface and solid performance, making it a good choice for managing files on rooted devices.
Download and Install FX File Explorer
You can download FX File Explorer from the Play Store. Download FX File Explorer here.
FX File Explorer is a great option for those who want a straightforward tool that still has powerful features.
Install FX Root Add-on
To access root-level features, you’ll need to install the FX Root Add-on:
Download the FX Root Add-on here.
This add-on works with FX File Explorer to let you manage system files.
Enable Root Access
With the Root Add-on installed, you can enable root access:
- Open FX File Explorer and go to Settings.
- Turn on Root Explorer.
This gives you the ability to edit and manage system files on your device.
Root Explorer
Root Explorer is a trusted file manager designed specifically for rooted Android devices.
Download and Install Root Explorer
Root Explorer is available on the Play Store. Download Root Explorer here.
Root Explorer is reliable and built to handle the needs of users with rooted devices.
Enable Root Access
To get started, you’ll need to enable root access:
- Open Root Explorer and grant it root permissions when asked.
This step lets you manage all the system files on your device.
Access and Manage System Files
Now that you have root access, you can start working with your files:
- Look through folders like
/system,/data, and/cache. - You can copy, move, and rename files as needed.
Root Explorer also has features like viewing SQLite databases and APK binary XML files, making it a powerful tool for managing your device.
Total Commander
Total Commander is a straightforward and efficient file manager that’s great for handling root-level tasks.
Download and Install Total Commander
You can get Total Commander from the Play Store. Download Total Commander here.
Total Commander is known for its simple design and powerful features, making it a good choice for rooted devices.
Enable Root Features
To use Total Commander with root access:
- Open Total Commander and go to Settings.
- Turn on Root Functions Everywhere.
This will allow you to perform tasks that require root permissions, such as moving or editing system files.
Manage System Files
With root features enabled, you can manage your system files:
- Use the dual-pane mode to easily move files between directories.
- Add plug-ins for extra features like cloud storage.
Total Commander is easy to use but still has all the tools you need for managing files on a rooted device.
Whether you choose Solid Explorer, ES File Explorer, MiXplorer, FX File Explorer, Root Explorer, or Total Commander, these file managers will help you take charge of your device’s files. Each one has its strengths, so pick the one that works best for you and start organizing your files today.