Best desktop file search tools
Apps that find files on your own computer by name or by content, faster than the search built into the operating system.
3 apps, ordered by visits from AppBreakup and how often our research lists each one as an alternative. Open any app to see its alternatives.
All desktop file search tools
- EvAlternatives to Everything
- Alternatives to Cardinal
Open-source instant file search app for macOS with Everything-style query syntax.
Open sourcemacOS - Alternatives to Find Any File
Mac file finder that searches disks directly by name, date, size and kind, including places Spotlight skips.
PaidmacOS
Our picks by need
Best for most people
EverythingBest for a free option
CardinalBest for Mac
Find Any FileBest for Windows
EverythingCommon questions
What are the best desktop file search tools?
Based on how often our research lists them as alternatives and visits from AppBreakup, the leading desktop file search tools right now are Everything, Cardinal and Find Any File.
Are there free desktop file search tools?
Yes. Everything (free) and Cardinal (open source) have a free option, out of 2 free or freemium apps we track.
Which desktop file search tools are open source?
None of the apps in this category is open source.