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Far Manager vs PureRef

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

Far Manager icon
Far Manager
PureRef icon
PureRef

Far Manager vs PureRef: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

Far Manager: Far Manager is a free and open-source file manager for Microsoft Windows. It provides a dual-pane interface for easy file navigation, with features like multiple tabs, powerful search and replace, built-in editor and viewer, plugins and customizations.

PureRef: PureRef is a free, lightweight application for Windows that helps artists and designers quickly view visual references without cluttering their workspace. It's useful for keeping photos, drawings, webpages, etc. easily accessible while working on graphics, illustrations, presentations, documents, and more.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Far Manager PureRef
Sugggest Score — —
Category File Management Photos & Graphics
Pricing Open Source Free

Product Overview

Far Manager
Far Manager

Description: Far Manager is a free and open-source file manager for Microsoft Windows. It provides a dual-pane interface for easy file navigation, with features like multiple tabs, powerful search and replace, built-in editor and viewer, plugins and customizations.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

PureRef
PureRef

Description: PureRef is a free, lightweight application for Windows that helps artists and designers quickly view visual references without cluttering their workspace. It's useful for keeping photos, drawings, webpages, etc. easily accessible while working on graphics, illustrations, presentations, documents, and more.

Type: software

Pricing: Free

Key Features Comparison

Far Manager
Far Manager Features
  • Dual-pane interface
  • Tabs for multiple folders
  • Powerful search and replace
  • Built-in text editor and viewer
  • Plugin support
  • Customizable interface and shortcuts
PureRef
PureRef Features
  • Tabbed interface to organize references
  • Resizable panels
  • Zoom and pan images
  • Minimal UI
  • Keyboard shortcuts
  • Search references
  • Fullscreen mode
  • Portable app
  • Dark mode

Pros & Cons Analysis

Far Manager
Far Manager

Pros

  • Lightweight and fast
  • Very customizable
  • Good keyboard support
  • Supports plugins for added functionality
  • Open source with active development

Cons

  • Dated looking interface
  • Steep learning curve
  • Less intuitive than Windows Explorer for casual users
  • Limited support for non-Windows platforms
PureRef
PureRef

Pros

  • Lightweight and fast
  • Clean and simple interface
  • Easy to use
  • Good for quick reference viewing
  • Free with no ads or limitations

Cons

  • Limited features compared to full reference managers
  • No cloud sync
  • Windows only

Pricing Comparison

Far Manager
Far Manager
  • Open Source
PureRef
PureRef
  • Free

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Learn More About Each Product

Far Manager
Far Manager
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
PureRef
PureRef
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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