Screenshot of Windows File Explorer with QTTabBar installed, adding tabs and advanced features

QTTabBar is a free tool that adds tabs and advanced features to Windows File Explorer.

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If you're used to working with tabs in your browser, classic Windows File Explorer can quickly feel limiting. QTTabBar addresses this by bringing tabbed functionality to File Explorer—combined with a wide range of advanced settings.


How QTTabBar works in practice

Screenshot of Windows File Explorer with QTTabBar installed, adding tabs and advanced features

QTTabBar integrates directly into Windows File Explorer and lets you open multiple folders in tabs, just like in web browsers. It makes working with many folders more manageable, especially if you often move, copy, or sammenligner filer.

Beyond tabs, QTTabBar also offers:

– Advanced keyboard shortcuts
– Extra toolbars in File Explorer
– Plugin support
– Highly detailed configuration options

We tested QTTabBar on a standard Windows 11 PC. The tab feature worked reliably, but setup required quite a bit of manual effort. Many features are disabled by default, and programmet guider ikke nye brugere særlig godt.


Interface and design

QTTabBar interface during our test

The interface is functional but looks a bit old-fashioned. The tabs don’t look like the ones you know from modern browsere, and there are many small icons and menus that take some getting used to.

For experienced users that’s not necessarily a problem, but for everyday Windows users it can quickly feel cluttered and technical.


Who is QTTabBar best suited for?

QTTabBar is mainly aimed at users who want maximum control over Windows File Explorer and aren’t afraid of lots of settings.

It’s especially relevant for:

– Power users
– IT-savvy users
– Users who work intensively with files and folders

For most everyday users, a simpler alternative like Clover will be easier to approach, as it offers tabs in a more modern and familiar design.

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Top 5 QTTabBar tips

Tip 1: Make active use of keyboard shortcuts
QTTabBar becomes much faster to use once you learn the vigtigste genvejstaster. That’s where the program really stands out.

Tip 2: Enable only the toolbars you need
There are many options, but too many active elements make File Explorer cluttered. Start simple and build up gradually.

Tip 3: Experiment with tab behavior
You can decide how tabs open, close, and get reused—it can save a lot of time in daily use.

Tip 4: Use plugins judiciously
Plugins can greatly extend functionality, but they can also make the program heavier and more complex.

Tip 5: Take your time with setup
QTTabBar isn’t an “install and go” program. Spend a little time in the settings—it pays off later.

Reviewer’s rating with pros and cons, and user ratings

QTTabBar is extremely flexible and powerful, but the lack of user-friendliness and modern design holds it back. It’s a niche tool that primarily delivers value for experienced users.


Pros

✅ Tabs directly in Windows File Explorer
✅ Highly customizable
✅ Free and ad-free
✅ Plugin support

Cons

❌ Steep learning curve
❌ Outdated interface
❌ No onboarding for new users


Operating systems

🖥️ Windows

User Rating