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GNOME Files vs Thunar

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

GNOME Files icon
GNOME Files
Thunar icon
Thunar

GNOME Files vs Thunar: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

GNOME Files: GNOME Files is a free and open-source file manager that is a part of the GNOME desktop environment. It features a simple user interface, built-in search functionality, customizable side panel, file previews and metadata displays, image thumbnailing, and integration with GNOME apps.

Thunar: Thunar is a fast and easy to use file manager for the Xfce desktop environment. It has a simple and straightforward interface but still includes many useful features like custom actions, bulk rename, and support for remote filesystems.

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 GNOME Files Thunar
Sugggest Score — —
Category File Management File Management
Pricing Free Free

Product Overview

GNOME Files
GNOME Files

Description: GNOME Files is a free and open-source file manager that is a part of the GNOME desktop environment. It features a simple user interface, built-in search functionality, customizable side panel, file previews and metadata displays, image thumbnailing, and integration with GNOME apps.

Type: software

Pricing: Free

Thunar
Thunar

Description: Thunar is a fast and easy to use file manager for the Xfce desktop environment. It has a simple and straightforward interface but still includes many useful features like custom actions, bulk rename, and support for remote filesystems.

Type: software

Pricing: Free

Key Features Comparison

GNOME Files
GNOME Files Features
  • File browsing
  • Search functionality
  • Customizable side panel
  • File previews
  • Metadata displays
  • Image thumbnailing
  • Integration with other GNOME apps
Thunar
Thunar Features
  • Simple and easy to use interface
  • Customizable shortcuts and actions
  • Support for bulk rename operations
  • Fast and lightweight
  • Integrates well with Xfce desktop environment
  • Supports remote file systems
  • Tabbed interface for managing multiple folders
  • Plugin architecture for extending functionality

Pros & Cons Analysis

GNOME Files
GNOME Files

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Simple and easy to use interface
  • Powerful built-in search
  • Extensible via plugins
  • Lightweight and fast

Cons

  • Limited advanced features compared to other file managers
  • No built-in image editing
  • Lacks support for tabs
Thunar
Thunar

Pros

  • Lightweight and fast
  • Intuitive and easy to use
  • Highly customizable
  • Good integration with Xfce
  • Active development and updates

Cons

  • Lacks some advanced features of other file managers
  • Not as full-featured as more complex file managers like Dolphin or Nautilus
  • Dependent on Xfce libraries
  • Limited theming options compared to other file managers

Pricing Comparison

GNOME Files
GNOME Files
  • Free
Thunar
Thunar
  • Free

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Learn More About Each Product

GNOME Files
GNOME Files
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Thunar
Thunar
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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