FILExt is a long-running online reference platform dedicated to file extensions and file formats. It helps users identify unknown files, understand their structure, and learn which applications can open them.
The service is primarily informational, widely used by IT professionals and everyday users to troubleshoot file-related issues without installing software.
| Plan | Price | Featured |
|---|---|---|
| Free Access | $0 (Free) | Unlimited file extension lookups, Public access to file format database, No account required |
Competitor |
Pros |
|---|---|
| FileInfo | Compared to FileInfo, FILExt offers a broader historical database and simpler navigation. It loads faster on low-bandwidth connections and avoids forcing downloads. Users who only need quick identification benefit from FILExt’s minimal interface and entirely free access without prompts to install companion tools. |
| OpenWith.org | FILExt provides more structured technical explanations than OpenWith.org. It focuses less on user comments and more on verified format data, making it easier for IT users who want consistent, reference-style information rather than community-driven suggestions. |
| File-Extensions.org | FILExt is generally easier to browse and less cluttered than File-Extensions.org. It prioritizes direct explanations over ads and popups, which helps users quickly understand file purposes without distractions or aggressive download recommendations. |
| TrIDNet | Unlike TrIDNet, FILExt does not require installing software or running file scans. This makes it more accessible for casual users who want immediate answers online rather than advanced binary analysis tools. |
| CheckFileType | FILExt has a significantly larger and older database than CheckFileType. Its long-term maintenance and frequent updates give it better coverage of obscure and legacy file formats. |
Competitor |
Cons |
|---|---|
| FileInfo | Compared to FileInfo, FILExt lacks polished visuals and guided recommendations. Users who prefer step-by-step help or modern UI elements may find FILExt more basic and less beginner-friendly. |
| OpenWith.org | FILExt offers less community feedback than OpenWith.org. Users looking for personal experiences or crowdsourced troubleshooting tips may find the content more technical and less conversational. |
| File-Extensions.org | While cleaner, FILExt sometimes provides fewer download links or conversion options than File-Extensions.org, which may disappoint users who want direct tools rather than pure explanations. |
| TrIDNet | FILExt cannot analyze actual file binaries like TrIDNet. Advanced users needing forensic-level accuracy or automated detection may find FILExt insufficient for deep technical work. |
| CheckFileType | FILExt does not focus on quick upload-and-analyze workflows. Users wanting instant detection by uploading files may prefer tools built specifically for automated file inspection. |
