10Best.Guide

File Folders

Top Picks

Last Updated: April, 2023
Pros
  • Sturdy and functional product
  • Lighter interiors make it easy to write on tabs
  • Helps with color-coding and organization
  • Affordable compared to other colors
Cons
  • Packaging and shipping issues (ripped boxes, missing folders, bent folders)
  • Inconsistent tab positions in some folders
Bottom Line
These Pendaflex file folders are a functional and affordable option for color-coding and organizing files, but buyers should be aware of potential packaging and quality issues.
Pros
  • Cost-effective
  • Good for personal use
  • Sturdy enough for daily use
  • Excellent value for money
  • Good for hoarding papers
Cons
  • Shipping takes a long time
  • Flimsy compared to other brands
Bottom Line
These folders are a good value for personal use and daily filing needs. However, they may not be suitable for heavy-duty use and have some quality issues such as being flimsy and having a bad smell.
Pros
  • Great quantity to price ratio.
  • Sturdy and strong, can hold 500 pages easily.
  • Good value for everyday use.
  • Cheaper than other office supply stores.
  • Arrived in perfect brand new condition.
Cons
  • Some folders are not as sturdy as others.
  • Some folders were cut too short to be usable.
Bottom Line
These file folders are a good value for everyday use and are cheaper than other office supply stores. However, some folders may not be as sturdy as others and some may arrive damaged or bent.
Pros
  • Good quality file folders
  • Great price
  • Perfect for storing invoices and receipts
  • Arrived quickly
  • Sturdy enough for home filing
Cons
  • Some folders were ruined or not cut correctly
  • Box top was in horrible condition
Bottom Line
These Smead Manila File Folders are a good value for the price, but some customers have experienced issues with the quality and packaging.
Pros
  • Great price
  • Comes in a box of 100
  • Sturdy enough for light use
  • Good quality material
Cons
  • Flimsy and not durable for daily office use
  • Poorly packed in the box
Bottom Line
These file folders are a good option for light use and come at a great price, but they are not durable enough for daily office use and are poorly packed in the box. The paper material is also lighter than expected.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for File Folders: Types, Key Considerations, Features, Prices, Tips and FAQs

Overview

File folders are a must-have for anyone who wants to keep their documents organized and easily accessible. Whether you're a student, a professional, or just someone who likes to keep their paperwork in order, investing in high-quality file folders is a smart move. But with so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.

Types

1. Manila folders: These are the most common type of file folder and are made of sturdy paper stock. They come in a variety of sizes and can be used for a wide range of documents.

2. Hanging folders: These folders have hooks that allow them to hang from a file cabinet or drawer. They are ideal for storing large amounts of paperwork and are available in various colors.

3. Expanding folders: These folders have multiple pockets that can expand to accommodate more documents. They are great for organizing large projects or multiple files.

4. Classification folders: These folders have multiple dividers that can be used to separate documents into different categories. They are ideal for organizing complex projects or client files.

Key Considerations

1. Size: Make sure to choose a size that will fit your documents comfortably. Standard sizes include letter and legal.

2. Material: Consider the durability of the folder and the type of material it's made of. Manila folders are the most common, but there are also options made of plastic or other materials.

3. Color: Choose a color that will help you easily identify the contents of the folder.

4. Tab style: There are various tab styles available, including straight cut, 1/3 cut, and 1/5 cut. Choose a style that works best for your organizational needs.

Features

1. Reinforced edges: Folders with reinforced edges are more durable and less likely to tear or fray.

2. Fasteners: Some folders have fasteners that allow you to secure documents in place.

3. Labels: Look for folders with pre-printed or customizable labels to make it easier to identify the contents.

4. Expansion: Expanding folders or classification folders with multiple dividers can help you organize large projects or client files.

Prices

File folders range in price from a few cents to several dollars per folder, depending on the type, material, and features. It's important to consider your budget and the level of durability and functionality you need when choosing a file folder.

Tips

1. Use color-coding to help you easily identify the contents of your folders.

2. Consider investing in a label maker to create consistent, easy-to-read labels for your folders.

3. Use hanging folders to maximize storage space in your file cabinet or drawer.

4. Regularly purge old documents to keep your filing system up-to-date and clutter-free.

FAQs

Q: How many folders should I buy?

A: The number of folders you need will depend on the amount of paperwork you have to organize. It's a good idea to buy a few extra folders to allow for future growth.

Q: What size folder should I choose?

A: Choose a size that will comfortably fit your documents. Standard sizes include letter and legal.

Q: Can I reuse file folders?

A: Yes, file folders can be reused as long as they are still in good condition.

Q: How do I choose between different tab styles?

A: Consider your organizational needs and choose a tab style that will work best for you. Straight cut tabs are the most common, but 1/3 cut and 1/5 cut tabs can be useful for more complex filing systems.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Good quality
  • Reasonable price
  • Prompt delivery
  • All parts present & accounted for
Cons
  • Arrived curled up
  • Some metal tops were bent
Bottom Line
These Amazon Basics file folders are a good quality and reasonably priced option for organizing files, but be aware that they may arrive curled up or with some bent metal tops. Also, check the size carefully before purchasing.
Pros
  • Nice quality folders
  • Fun and pleasant blend of colors
  • Great for organizing work documents
  • Easy to organize with the color assortment
  • Two-tone feature is useful
Cons
  • Box is short 5 folders
  • Tabs have slight creases already
Bottom Line
The Pendaflex Two Tone Color File Folders are a great option for organizing work documents with their fun and pleasant blend of colors and two-tone feature. However, they may not be the best option for heavy-duty use and the packaging and quality may have some issues.
Pros
  • Great color options
  • Good value for the price
  • Sturdy enough for holding papers
  • Good quality for the price
  • Sufficient creases for easy folding
Cons
  • Inconsistent color distribution
  • Thinner paper than name brand folders
Bottom Line
These folders are a good value for the price and are sturdy enough for holding papers. However, the paper is thinner than name brand folders and the surface texture is grainy. The color distribution may also be inconsistent.
Pros
  • Beautiful and elegant design
  • Vibrant colors
  • Sturdy and high quality
  • Comes in a 6-pack
  • Helpful and friendly customer service
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Tabs could be larger for easier labeling
Bottom Line
These file folders are a great choice for those who want to add a touch of beauty and elegance to their workspace. They are sturdy and high quality, but may be a bit expensive for some. The tabs could be larger for easier labeling, and the shipping packaging could be improved to prevent damage during transit. Overall, a great choice for those looking for a stylish and functional file folder.
Pros
  • Nice color options
  • Good for general filing use
  • Lightweight and easy to write on
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Attractive and cheap
Cons
  • Thin and flimsy
  • Packaging is not sturdy
Bottom Line
These file folders are a good option for general filing use and come in attractive colors at a cheap price. However, they are not as sturdy as standard file folders and may not hold up to frequent use or handling.
Please add more products to compare
You can compare up to four products at once
{{compareData.brand}}