If you're a solo user on Windows looking for a modern file management experience, go with Files. Its WinUI 3 interface, dual panes, and tagging features offer a significant upgrade over File Explorer. It's open-source and gets regular updates, making it a great choice if you want a fresh, efficient alternative, though be aware that it’s Windows-only and may have some issues in preview builds.
On the other hand, if you're focused on managing photos and videos and value privacy, choose immich. This self-hosted solution allows for complete control over your media but does require some technical knowledge to set up. It’s ideal for tech-savvy individuals who prioritize performance and privacy over ease of use and abundant third-party integrations. Avoid it if you prefer a straightforward cloud environment.