Compare Files and Attachments features

File handling capabilities vary between the Files related list and Attachments related list in Lightning Experience and Salesforce Classic:

In Lightning Experience
 

• Files supports:
  • Share via the Files Preview page
  • Download via the Files Preview page
  • Upload New Version via the Files Preview page
  • Delete via the Files Preview page
  • Followers via the Files Preview page
  • Versions via the Files Preview page

 
Note: The Edit and Delete options within the downward facing triangle icon, on the View All Files page, are greyed out by design.  Edit and Delete operations can be performed on the Preview page for the respective file as stated in the bullets above.
 

• Attachments supports:
  • Download
  • View (dependent on browser and settings)

 
In Salesforce Classic
 

• Files supports:
  • Delete
  • Preview
  • Download
  • Sync
  • Edit Details
  • Sharing Settings
  • Upload New Version
  • Followers
  • Shared With
  • Versions

• Attachments supports:
  • Download
  • View (dependent on browser and settings)

 

See also
Differences Between Files, Salesforce CRM Content, Salesforce Knowledge, Documents, and Attachments