EmelFM2

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Overview

emelFM2 is an orthodox file manager for UNIX-like operating systems using a GTK+ interface with a two-pane design similar to Norton Commander. It displays directory contents in side-by-side or top-to-bottom panes, with a bottom pane for command output, supporting file operations via GUI, keyboard shortcuts, or built-in command-line. It targets users preferring lightweight, customizable, keyboard-driven file management on Linux and BSD systems, standing out with its small footprint, flexible filetyping, and command execution without external terminals.¹²³

Key Features

Two-pane design - Displays two filesystem directories side-by-side or top-to-bottom for efficient file browsing and operations.
Command output pane - Shows results of executed commands directly in the bottom pane without needing a terminal emulator.
Flexible filetyping - User-defined actions and behaviors for specific file types.
Keyboard shortcuts - Customizable keybindings for all features, including function keys for common commands.
Archive handling - Supports operations on archives and mounted filesystems.
Customizable interface - Resizable panes, hideable panels, and extensive configuration options.
Built-in command-line - Initiates shell commands via CLI, toolbar, or keys with output captured in-app.

Pricing

Plan	Price	Includes
Standard	Free	Full feature set under GPL v3 license.

Platforms & Requirements

Runs on UNIX-like systems supporting Gtk+ 2.6 to 3.22, including Linux (Debian i386/amd64/sparc64), FreeBSD (i386/alpha), and NetBSD. Requires shell commands like grep/sed; compiling needs GCC >=3.2 and libmagic development package. No native support for Windows, macOS, or mobile platforms.²

Integrations & Ecosystem

Shell commands (grep, sed)
libmagic for file type detection
Archives (tar, zip, etc.)
Mounted filesystems
GTK+2/3 widget toolkit

Alternatives

App	Difference
Midnight Commander	Console-based dual-pane manager, no GUI, broader platform support including Windows.
Double Commander	Cross-platform (Windows/Linux) GUI dual-pane with more modern features like tabs.
Krusader	KDE-based dual-pane manager with integrated viewer and archiver support.
Nautilus (Files)	GNOME single-pane manager focused on graphical previews over keyboard efficiency.

Reputation

emelFM2 is regarded as a lightweight, efficient dual-pane file manager ideal for GTK environments and power users favoring keyboard-driven workflows. Strengths include its small size, speed, and customization depth, with positive mentions as a 'hidden gem' for file operations. Criticisms note its dated interface and lack of modern features like tabs or thumbnails, limiting appeal to users needing simplicity over visual polish.¹⁴

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