Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

lf (file manager) VS xplr

Compare lf (file manager) VS xplr and see what are their differences

lf (file manager) logo lf (file manager)

Terminal file manager written in Go (programming language).

xplr logo xplr

Fast and hackable file manager for the terminal.
  • lf (file manager) Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-04
  • xplr Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-01

lf (file manager) features and specs

  • Speed
    Being a terminal-based file manager, lf is fast and snappy, providing swift navigation and file manipulation compared to GUI-based file managers.
  • Minimalistic Design
    With its simple and minimal interface, lf is less distracting and allows users to focus more on managing files effectively without unnecessary bells and whistles.
  • Keyboard-driven
    Offers efficient, keyboard-driven navigation and file management, increasing productivity for users comfortable with mouse-less interaction.
  • Configurable
    Highly configurable with the ability to customize key bindings, appearance, and integrate with external tools, making it adaptable to various workflows.
  • Cross-platform
    Available on multiple operating systems, including Unix-like systems and Windows, providing a consistent experience across different environments.
  • Vi-like Key Bindings
    Supports vi-like key bindings by default, which can be appealing to users familiar with the vi or vim editors who can extend their keyboard proficiency to file management.

Possible disadvantages of lf (file manager)

  • Steep Learning Curve
    The reliance on keyboard input and lack of graphical user interface elements can be difficult for users unfamiliar with terminal-based applications.
  • Limited Functionality
    May lack out-of-the-box features found in some GUI file managers, such as drag-and-drop support, thumbnail previews, and built-in synchronization capabilities.
  • Dependency on Terminal
    Since lf runs within a terminal, users must be comfortable navigating and operating within a terminal environment, which might not be ideal for everyone.
  • No Built-in Viewer
    Lf doesn't offer a built-in file viewer, requiring users to configure and rely on external programs to open or preview files, adding an extra configuration step.
  • Customization Required
    While lf is highly configurable, it requires users to spend time and effort in setting up custom configurations to tailor it to their specific needs.

xplr features and specs

  • Customizability
    xplr offers a high level of customizability, allowing users to script and configure the file explorer extensively using Lua.
  • Terminal Integration
    As a terminal-based file explorer, xplr integrates well into a command-line workflow, making it convenient for users who prefer navigating files without leaving the terminal.
  • Lightweight
    xplr is designed to be a lightweight file explorer, ensuring quick start-up times and minimal system resource usage.
  • Keyboard Navigation
    It offers efficient keyboard navigation, which can improve productivity for users comfortable with keyboard shortcuts.
  • Cross-Platform
    xplr is a cross-platform application, making it accessible on various operating systems including Linux, macOS, and Windows.

Possible disadvantages of xplr

  • Steep Learning Curve
    Due to its customizability and keyboard-driven nature, xplr may have a steep learning curve for new users or those accustomed to GUI-based navigations.
  • Limited Default Features
    Out of the box, xplr might have fewer features compared to other more mature file explorers, requiring users to set up or script additional functionalities.
  • Dependency on Terminal
    As a terminal-based application, it requires users to have a terminal emulator, which may not be ideal for users who prefer graphical interfaces.
  • Potential for Overhead
    The extensive customization options might lead to increased overhead in managing configurations for users who need a simple, quick file explorer.
  • Community and Support
    While growing, xplr may not yet have as large of a community or as much available support compared to more established file explorers.

lf (file manager) videos

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xplr videos

SRAM XPLR Groupset Review: 1x Specific for Gravel Cycling

More videos:

  • Review - Is This The Future Of Gravel? SRAM XPLR first ride impressions
  • Review - SRAM XPLR with Sage Storm King GP Review

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to lf (file manager) and xplr)
FTP Client
79 79%
21% 21
File Manager
74 74%
26% 26
Robo-Advisor
80 80%
20% 20
File Explorer
62 62%
38% 38

User comments

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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, lf (file manager) seems to be a lot more popular than xplr. While we know about 65 links to lf (file manager), we've tracked only 5 mentions of xplr. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

lf (file manager) mentions (65)

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xplr mentions (5)

What are some alternatives?

When comparing lf (file manager) and xplr, you can also consider the following products

nnn - Fast and resource-sensitive file manager for the terminal

CliFM - CliFM is a completely CLI-based, shell-like and KISS file manager written in C: simple, fast, and lightweight as hell.

Broot - Commandline app to simplify directory navigation.

Polo - Polo is a modern, dynamic and powerful file manager for Linux operating systems, written in Vala. It attempts to fold in several drive/devices management functions similar to Windows Explorer, and offers several innovative display layouts.

fzf - A command-line fuzzy finder written in Go

Tably - All-in-one playground for collaborative data work.