Krusader

Active

Founded: 2000
Developer: Krusader Krew
Pricing: Free (open-source)
Open source: Yes
Platforms: Linux, KDE Plasma

Indexes

File Managers

Overview

Krusader is an advanced twin-panel file manager for Linux and KDE Plasma desktops, modeled after the Midnight Commander and Total Commander interfaces. It provides comprehensive file management capabilities including archive handling, remote file access via FTP/SFTP, directory synchronization, and batch operations. The application is designed for users who need efficient, keyboard-driven file management with extensive customization options and support for complex workflows involving multiple files and remote locations.

Key Features

Twin-panel interface - Dual side-by-side panels for efficient file navigation and operations between directories
Archive handling - Transparent support for ZIP, tarball, RPM, CPIO, and other archive formats with ability to view and extract files
Remote file access - File transfers and browsing via FTP, SFTP, FISH, and SMB protocols for accessing remote systems
Advanced search - Granular search module with folder-specific filtering and exclusion capabilities
Directory synchronization - Built-in tools to synchronize and compare directory contents
Batch renaming - Powerful batch file renaming functionality for managing multiple files
Copy/move queues - Queue management for file transfer operations
Internal viewer and editor - Built-in file viewing and editing capabilities without external applications
Customizable profiles - Save and restore workspace configurations for different workflows and contexts
Keyboard shortcuts - Extensive function key bindings (F2-F9) for rapid file operations

Pricing

Plan	Price	Includes
Free	$0	Full access to all features, open-source software under GNU General Public License v2 or later

Platforms & Requirements

Krusader runs on Linux and KDE Plasma desktops across various distributions including Kubuntu, Ubuntu with KDE, PCLinuxOS, and KANOTIX. It is available through standard package managers on KDE-based distributions. The application requires KDE Plasma or compatible desktop environment and is optimized for systems with X11 or Wayland display servers.

Integrations & Ecosystem

KIO slaves (SMB, FISH protocols)
FTP and SFTP file transfer
Archive format support (ZIP, tarball, RPM, CPIO)
KDE Plasma desktop environment
User actions scripting system

Alternatives

App	Difference
Midnight Commander	Text-mode file manager that inspired Krusader; lacks graphical interface and modern features
Total Commander	Proprietary Windows-focused twin-panel manager; Krusader is its open-source Linux equivalent
Konqueror	KDE's default file manager with broader functionality as both file manager and web browser; less specialized for file operations
Nautilus	GNOME's default file manager with simpler interface; lacks twin-panel layout and advanced batch operations
Thunar	Lightweight Xfce file manager; simpler feature set with less emphasis on keyboard control and batch operations

Reputation

Krusader is recognized as a powerful and versatile file manager well-suited for advanced users and those managing large numbers of files. It is praised for its efficient twin-panel interface, extensive keyboard shortcuts, and comprehensive feature set including archive handling and remote file access. The application is valued by power users in the Linux community for its productivity-focused design and high degree of customization. Some users note a steeper learning curve compared to simpler file managers, though this is offset by the efficiency gains for frequent file operations.

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