Is Dolphin better than XYplorer?

Dolphin ranks higher in our list of file managers (#4 against #5, score 88.0 against 87.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need. Dolphin is best for: Linux desktop users on KDE Plasma. XYplorer is best for: Windows users who want a portable dual-pane manager.

Which is cheaper, Dolphin or XYplorer?

Dolphin: Free and open source; installed from Linux software stores. XYplorer: Paid license from $34.95; 30-day free trial.

Do Dolphin and XYplorer run on the same platforms?

Dolphin supports Linux, Windows. XYplorer supports Windows.

Comparison · File managers

Dolphin vs XYplorer: which is better in 2026?

Dolphin88.0#4 in best file managers

XYplorer87.0#5 in best file managers

Dolphin ranks higher in our list of file managers (#4 against #5, score 88.0 against 87.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need.

How we rank Share

88.0
Editorial score
87.0
2
Platforms
1
Yes
Free to use
No
Yes
Open source
No

Which should you choose?

Choose Dolphin if you want

Linux desktop users on KDE Plasma.

A strong pick for the KDE Plasma desktop, with tabs, split views, three view modes and an embedded terminal. It is strongest on Linux, and its Windows build plays a secondary role.

Choose XYplorer if you want

Windows users who want a portable dual-pane manager.

A portable Windows replacement for Explorer with dual panes and tabs. Its trial is fully functional for 30 days, and the Standard license costs $34.95 per user.

The main differences

Only Dolphin runs on Linux.
Dolphin is open source; XYplorer is not.
Dolphin can be used for free; XYplorer requires payment.

Side by side

	Dolphin	XYplorer
Score	88.0	87.0
Rank in list	#4 of 10	#5 of 10
Price	Free and open sourceFree and open source; installed from Linux software stores	PaidPaid license from $34.95; 30-day free trial
Free to use	Yes	No
Open source	Yes	No
Platforms	LinuxWindowsLinux, Windows	WindowsWindows
Made by	KDE	Not stated
Layout	Tabs and split view	Dual panels, tabs
Best for	Linux desktop users on KDE Plasma	Windows users who want a portable dual-pane manager
Strengths	Tabs, split view and a tree view Free and open source under GPL-2.0-or-later	Portable version that runs without installation Fully functional 30-day trial
Limits	Works best with the KDE Plasma desktop Windows version is secondary to the Linux app	Paid license after the trial ends Windows only
Links	Visit site	Visit site

Questions about Dolphin vs XYplorer

Is Dolphin better than XYplorer?: Dolphin ranks higher in our list of file managers (#4 against #5, score 88.0 against 87.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need. Dolphin is best for: Linux desktop users on KDE Plasma. XYplorer is best for: Windows users who want a portable dual-pane manager.
Which is cheaper, Dolphin or XYplorer?: Dolphin: Free and open source; installed from Linux software stores. XYplorer: Paid license from $34.95; 30-day free trial.
Do Dolphin and XYplorer run on the same platforms?: Dolphin supports Linux, Windows. XYplorer supports Windows.