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10 Best Letter Size File Folders 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

Amazon Basics 1/3-Cut Tab, Assorted Positions File Folders, Letter Size, Manila - Pack of 100

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,388
Material
Color

Most important from
52884 reviews

Material
The quality is excellent—sturdy, durable, and perfect for organizing documents.
Color
These file folders are very durable, functional, and come in a variety of colors.

The Amazon Basics 1/3-Cut Tab, Assorted Positions File Folders are a solid choice for organizing your 8.5x11-inch documents. With a pack of 100 file folders, you're well-equipped for a significant amount of paperwork. The material used is 11-point stock, which is standard and offers good durability while allowing the folders to expand up to 3/4 inch. One nice touch is the inclusion of 10% recycled content, which might appeal to those conscious about environmental sustainability.

The manila color is classic and neutral, making it suitable for various settings, whether a home office or a professional environment. The 1/3 cut tabs in assorted positions (left, middle, right) enhance organization and make labeling easy, ensuring you can quickly find the documents you need. However, these folders don’t come with fasteners, which might be a drawback if you need to secure documents neatly.

Measuring 11.6 x 9.5 inches, with tabs that are 3.8 x 0.5 inches, these dimensions are standard and should fit most filing systems comfortably. Weighing 5.37 pounds, the pack isn't overly heavy, making it easy to store or transport if necessary. These folders seem to offer good value for everyday filing needs, with the main limitation being the lack of fasteners if that is a required feature for your documents.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,388
Material
Color

Most important from
52884 reviews

Material
The quality is excellent—sturdy, durable, and perfect for organizing documents.
Color
These file folders are very durable, functional, and come in a variety of colors.
#2

Pendaflex File Folders, Letter Size, 8-1/2" x 11", Classic Manila, 1/3-Cut Tabs in Left, Right, Center Positions, 100 Per Box (65213)

Rating
9.4
Tab Position

Most important from
33799 reviews

Tab Position
The center cut option is a favorite for easy file navigation without zigzagging through the drawer.

Pendaflex File Folders are a reliable choice for organizing your 8-1/2 x 11-inch documents. Made from sturdy Manila paper, they fit seamlessly into most standard filing systems, making them easy to label, read, and replace. The 1/3-cut tabs come in left, right, and center positions, ensuring that you can quickly find what you need without much hassle.

The pack includes 100 folders, which is convenient for stocking up and keeping your desk clutter-free. One notable point is that they are proudly made in the USA and contain 10% recycled content, which may appeal to environmentally conscious users.

The paper material might not be the best in terms of durability compared to plastic or other tougher materials, especially if you handle your files frequently. Also, these folders do not have built-in fasteners or expansion features, which might be a drawback for those needing additional document security or capacity. These file folders are an excellent option for everyday filing needs, delivering good value and ease of use.

Rating
9.4
Tab Position

Most important from
33799 reviews

Tab Position
The center cut option is a favorite for easy file navigation without zigzagging through the drawer.
#3

Staples 116657 Manila File Folders Letter 3 Tab Assorted Position 100/Box

Rating
9.1
Material
Color

Most important from
3028 reviews

Material
The quality matches or even rivals major brands, ensuring reliable performance for everyday filing needs.
Color
A vibrant selection of colors goes beyond the usual basics, making document organization more enjoyable and visually distinct.

The Staples File Folders are classic manila folders designed to organize letter-sized documents efficiently. Made from sturdy 11-point paper stock with 30% recycled content, these folders offer decent durability for everyday office, school, or home use. The folders feature 1/3-cut tabs positioned at the top, which provide three tab positions for easy labeling and quick identification of files, making sorting through paperwork more convenient, especially if you manage multiple categories.

The color is the traditional manila, which is neutral and widely recognized for filing purposes. While the folders don't include built-in fasteners, they have a fastener capacity rated to hold up to 100 sheets, suggesting they can handle a good amount of paper if you add your own fasteners. The pack comes with 100 folders, making it a cost-effective option if you need to organize large volumes of documents.

Since they are made from paper, these folders may not be as resistant to moisture or heavy wear compared to plastic folders. These folders are suitable for users looking for a simple, reliable, and budget-friendly filing solution for standard paperwork without extra features like color coding or built-in fasteners.

Rating
9.1
Material
Color

Most important from
3028 reviews

Material
The quality matches or even rivals major brands, ensuring reliable performance for everyday filing needs.
Color
A vibrant selection of colors goes beyond the usual basics, making document organization more enjoyable and visually distinct.

Buying Guide for the Best Letter Size File Folders

Choosing the right letter-size file folders can help you stay organized and ensure that your documents are easily accessible. When selecting file folders, consider the type of documents you need to store, the frequency of use, and the storage space available. Here are some key specifications to consider when picking the best file folders for your needs.
MaterialThe material of the file folder is important for durability and protection of your documents. Common materials include manila, which is lightweight and suitable for everyday use, and heavier materials like pressboard or plastic, which offer more durability and protection. If you need folders for frequent handling or long-term storage, opt for sturdier materials.
Tab PositionTab positions help you label and identify your folders easily. Tabs can be positioned in various ways: straight-cut (one long tab), 1/3-cut (three positions), 1/5-cut (five positions), etc. If you have a large number of folders, using multiple tab positions can help you quickly locate specific files. Choose the tab position based on how you plan to label and organize your folders.
Tab SizeThe size of the tab affects how much information you can write on it. Standard tabs are usually sufficient for basic labeling, but if you need to include more detailed information, consider larger tabs. Larger tabs are also easier to read at a glance, which can be helpful in busy or high-volume filing systems.
ColorColor-coding your file folders can significantly enhance your organization system. Different colors can represent different categories, priorities, or departments. If you have a complex filing system, using a variety of colors can make it easier to locate and manage your documents. Choose colors that make sense for your organizational needs.
ExpansionExpansion refers to the capacity of the file folder to hold documents. Some folders have scored lines that allow them to expand to accommodate more papers. If you need to store thick stacks of documents, look for folders with greater expansion capabilities. For lighter use, standard non-expanding folders may suffice.
FastenersFasteners are metal or plastic clips inside the folder that hold papers in place. They are useful for keeping documents in a specific order or for preventing them from falling out. If you need to keep documents securely fastened, choose folders with built-in fasteners. For general use, folders without fasteners may be more convenient.

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