Root Explorer v4.12.8

Speed Software

About this app

Root Explorer is a highly-regarded file manager designed specifically for rooted devices, solving the problem of limited file system access and management for power users. It benefits most those who need advanced control over their device's file system, such as developers and enthusiasts. Compared to other productivity apps, Root Explorer stands out with its focus on rooted devices, but its utility is somewhat niche. Its high rating and large user base indicate a well-designed and useful tool, but its paid model may deter some users.

Pros

With over 1 million downloads and a 4.0-star rating, Root Explorer has demonstrated its value and reliability to a large and satisfied user base, indicating a high level of social proof.
The app's lack of permissions is a significant advantage, as it minimizes potential security risks and ensures that users' data is protected, which is a major concern for users of rooted devices.
As a paid app with no ads or in-app purchases, Root Explorer provides a clean and uninterrupted user experience, free from monetization distractions.
The developer, Speed Software, has a reputation for creating useful tools, and their email support suggests a commitment to user assistance and feedback.
Root Explorer's focus on rooted devices fills a specific niche, providing advanced file management capabilities that are not available in standard file managers.

Cons

The app's requirement for a rooted device limits its appeal to a subset of Android users, potentially excluding those who are not comfortable with or unable to root their devices.
The paid model, while ensuring a clean user experience, may deter some users who are accustomed to free alternatives or are unsure about the app's value proposition.
The lack of information about the developer's website and privacy policy may raise concerns about data collection and usage, although the app's zero-permission policy mitigates this risk.
Some users may find the app's interface or feature set to be less intuitive or comprehensive compared to other file managers, potentially leading to a learning curve.

Best for: The ideal user for Root Explorer is a technically savvy individual, likely an Android enthusiast or developer, who has a rooted device and requires advanced file management capabilities, such as accessing system files, managing permissions, or executing shell commands, and is willing to pay for a high-quality, ad-free experience.

Developer Description

The ultimate file manager for rooted devices. The original and still the best.

Root Explorer is the ultimate file manager for root users. Access the whole of android's file system (including the elusive data folder!).

Features include multiple tabs, Google Drive, Box, Dropbox and network (SMB) support, SQLite database viewer, Text Editor, create and extract zip or tar/gzip files, extract rar archives, multi-select, execute scripts, search, remount, permissions, bookmarks, send files (via email, bluetooth etc), image thumbnails, APK binary XML viewer, change file owner/group, create symbolic link, "Open With" facility, MD5, create shortcuts.

For fast, friendly support simply email us: support@speedsoftware.co.uk

We will always try to help with any problem you may have with the app. If we can't help then you can have a refund, no questions asked.

Although 22,000+ five star ratings will tell you that most people are very satisfied customers. Make sure you read as many comments as possible to get a good idea of what most people think of the app.

We still respect the old 24 hour refund policy. So if you're not happy with the app just email us within 24 hours and you can have a refund. We'll need to know the order number, which you can find on the emails sent to you by Google when you downloaded.

Why compromise? Get the original and the best!

New permissions:

Full network access - Required for network and cloud access. No information is passed to us over the internet.

Add or remove accounts - Used by the Google Drive SDK to add a new account if desired. No changes are made to existing accounts and no details accessed apart from the account name.

Find accounts on the device - Used to list available accounts for logging into Google Drive.

Prevent from sleeping - Used to stop the device sleeping during long operations so they are not interrupted.

Privacy

Given that Root Explorer requires no permissions, the risk of data collection or security breaches is minimal, but users should still exercise caution when managing their file system and be aware of the potential risks associated with rooting their device. To ensure safety, users should only download the app from trusted sources and monitor their device's behavior for any suspicious activity.

Tips

To get the most out of Root Explorer, users should first familiarize themselves with the app's interface and features, taking advantage of the developer's email support if needed. Additionally, users can optimize performance by regularly cleaning up unnecessary files and directories, and by being mindful of their device's storage capacity. By doing so, users can ensure a smooth and efficient file management experience.

What's New

Google Drive support removed

Version Information

Version: 4.12.8
Downloads: 1M+
Updated on: Jul 21, 2025
Released: Jan 7, 2026
Requires: Android 4.3

Statistics

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Root Explorer - Google Play Rankings

Rank	Country	Category	List	Change
				—

No ranking data available yet. Rankings are updated daily.

#40 in Top Paid Productivity in United States

#39

PwnDroid

#40

Root Explorer

#41

FE File Explorer Pro

#19 in Top Paid Productivity in South Korea

#18

Business Calendar 2 Pro

#19

Root Explorer

#20

@Voice Premium License

#19 in Top Paid Productivity in Canada

#18

RealCalc Plus

#19

Root Explorer

#20

Calendar Widget Agenda Planner

#31 in Top Paid Productivity in United Kingdom

#30

ICSx⁵ – Subscribe to calendars

#31

Root Explorer

#32

Elements Widgets

Root Explorer users say on Google Play

★★★★★

A Google user

DEC 2025 : Been using for root operations since 2011. Previous: Root Explorer's (RE) multiple tabs , display of permission bits and date,mount mode, sorting and overall speed make RE my choice for root operations.

★★★★

Lance Shimabukuro (GhostGuitars)

One of the first app I've ever installed, recommend by XDA on my 1st Android phone, the Galaxy SII, so MANY years ago. It's proven to be one of my core apps I ALWAYS install. Very reliable & useful. I still use it on my newest phone, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. I haven't downloaded the latest update because it removes support for Google Drive. I regularly use that feature to transfer files to/from there!!! 😡 Strike one star for that!

★★★

Dr. Nugroho

Edit: The recent update confused me. Now there are the dot-thrash (.trash) files if the hidden files are unhide. How do you remove them in one step? Among the best in the past. Other recommendation: Let the tab stay in place when pressing back button, I.e. not go back to root folder.

★★

anon machina

20250910 This file manager STILL lacks the ability to display thumbnails of .webp files...in 2025...dispiriting. 20250909 Whenever I copy-paste a name to an image file (that apparently has an invalid character?) I end up with a question mark in place of said character, and I cannot rename (nor view) the image file. Oddly, I can view and rename the file when I connect my phone to my WINblows 10 computer. I can also view and rename the file...in another ANDROID file manager.

★

Idaho Native

Does not work with latest Android and USB drives. Takes forever to load them if it does and usually fails copying. Other apps work fine so I don't think it's my setup.