For solo users on Windows looking for a modern file management experience, Files is the clear choice. Its modern WinUI 3 interface, dual panes, and tabbed browsing provide a significant upgrade over traditional File Explorer. Additionally, its open-source nature ensures continual updates and community support. However, if you require cross-platform functionality or advanced features like scripting and FTP, this option falls short.
On the other hand, if you are part of an organization that handles high volumes of PDFs and values security, go for Stirling-PDF. Its multi-platform availability and robust processing capabilities make it ideal for businesses needing efficient PDF management. Just be mindful of the paid model that can become costly with extensive use, and if you drastically need mobile app features, this tool might not meet your needs as efficiently.