When customizing your Linux desktop, file managers play a crucial role not only in usability but also in shaping your workflow. While graphical file managers like Nautilus and Thunar are popular for their visual clarity, there is another class of tools that excel in speed, efficiency, and low resource usage: the TUI (Text User Interface) file managers.
These terminal-based file managers are especially appealing to power users, minimalists, and anyone using tiling window managers or remote systems. They offer keyboard-driven navigation, lightning-fast operations, and often come with powerful scripting or plugin capabilities. In this article, we’ll explore five of the most popular TUI file managers available for Linux: Ranger, nnn, Midnight Commander, lf, and vifm.
Ranger
- Best for: Vim users and keyboard-centric workflows
- Interface: Three-column layout using ncurses (directory, preview, content)
- Features: Custom keybindings, directory bookmarks, image and text preview, extensible with Python
- Install:
sudo apt install ranger(Debian/Ubuntu),sudo pacman -S ranger(Arch) - Run: Type
rangerin terminal
I often use Ranger when working in a minimal tiling WM setup. The interface is intuitive for Vim users, and the preview system is incredibly useful for quickly browsing text files or even images.
nnn
- Best for: Ultra-minimalists and performance-oriented users
- Interface: Single-column layout, ultra-lightweight, blazing fast
- Features: Plugin system, clipboard integration, file previews, smooth key navigation, fewer dependencies
- Install:
sudo apt install nnn(Debian/Ubuntu),sudo pacman -S nnn(Arch) - Run: Launch with
nnn
What I like about nnn is how fast and non-intrusive it is. With plugins, you can make it as complex or as minimal as you want.
Midnight Commander (mc)
- Best for: Users transitioning from GUI to TUI
- Interface: Dual-pane layout, function-key driven interface (F5 to copy, F6 to move, etc.)
- Features: Built-in file viewer and editor, FTP/SSH support, mouse support, user-friendly dialogs
- Install:
sudo apt install mc,sudo pacman -S mc - Run: Use
mcto launch it
Midnight Commander feels like a GUI inside a terminal. It's great for those who still like visual cues but want to avoid opening a full desktop environment.
lf (list files)
- Best for: Users seeking a minimal, fast, and extensible file manager
- Interface: Single-pane Vim-style layout, minimal distractions
- Features: Vim keybindings, preview support, custom shell commands, server mode
- Install:
sudo apt install lfor download binary from GitHub - Run: Launch with
lf
lf stands for "list files" and is written in Go. It’s known for being lightweight and configurable. You can write custom shell scripts for keybindings, and its server-client model allows integration with other tools. It's great for advanced users who want to shape their own workflow.
lf feels like a spiritual successor to Ranger but with less bloat. Its flexibility makes it a hidden gem in the TUI ecosystem.
vifm
- Best for: Hardcore Vim users who want complete control
- Interface: Dual-pane layout inside terminal, full Vim navigation support
- Features: Runs shell commands, bookmarks, macros, integrates with Vim configs
- Install:
sudo apt install vifm,sudo pacman -S vifm - Run: Launch with
vifm
If you're already using Vim as your text editor of choice, you'll feel right at home with vifm. It replicates the Vim editing experience for file management, complete with motions, modes, and even Vim-style command-line operations.
vifm is a bit of a learning curve, but once you're used to it, it’s incredibly efficient. It's like managing your files entirely in the world of Vim.
Read also:
3 Beginner-Friendly Linux File Managers: Nautilus, Thunar, and Dolphin
3 Lightweight and Beginner-Friendly Linux File Managers: Nemo, PCManFM, and Caja
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