Double Commander vs Thunar (XFCE)
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Double Commander is a free, open-source file manager with a classic dual-panel layout that lets you view and operate on two directories side by side. It includes a built-in text editor with syntax highlighting, a file viewer that handles hex, binary, and text formats, and native support for archive formats including ZIP, 7Z, RAR, TAR, and DEB. The app supports Total Commander-style plugins (WCX, WDX, WFX, WLX), FTP/SFTP/SSH connections, a multi-rename tool, and full Unicode and tabbed-interface support. It is cross-platform and actively maintained on GitHub, with both stable releases and snapshot builds available for users who want the latest features.
Thunar is the default file manager for the Xfce desktop environment, offering a clean interface and responsive performance on low‑resource systems. It integrates tightly with Xfce, providing drag‑and‑drop, custom actions, and seamless handling of MIME types. Designed for simplicity, Thunar supports tabbed browsing, bulk renaming, and extensible plugins, making everyday file operations quick and intuitive for both novice and power users.
- Completely free and open source with no ads or upsells
- Deep plugin compatibility with the long-established Total Commander ecosystem
- Cross-platform availability keeps a consistent workflow across operating systems
- Handles a very wide range of archive formats natively
- Very fast startup
- Low memory footprint
- Deep integration with Xfce
- Highly customizable
- Interface looks dated compared to modern single-pane file explorers
- Steeper learning curve for users unfamiliar with dual-panel managers
- Community-driven support means slower turnaround on niche bugs
- Limited to Linux platforms
- Feature set smaller than full‑featured managers like Nautilus
- No built‑in cloud storage integration
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Alternatives to Thunar (XFCE)
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataThunar is the safe default for Linux users needing a fast, lightweight single‑pane manager, while Double Commander trades simplicity for richer, cross‑platform dual‑pane capabilities.
Key differences
- •Platform scope: Thunar runs only on Linux/Xfce; Double Commander works on multiple OSes.
- •Interface model: Thunar uses a single pane; Double Commander uses dual panes for side‑by‑side operations.
- •Archive support: Thunar needs a plugin for archives; Double Commander handles many archive formats natively.
- •Remote file access: Thunar has no built‑in FTP/SFTP; Double Commander includes native FTP/SFTP/SSH support.
- •Extensibility: Thunar offers custom actions via scripts; Double Commander supports Total Commander plugins and a custom button bar.
Pricing & value
Both are free and open source, offering comparable cost‑free value.
Ease of use / learning curve
Thunar’s single‑pane UI is simpler for typical desktop users; Double Commander’s dual‑pane layout is steeper.
Features & depth
Double Commander provides built‑in archive handling, FTP/SFTP, text editor, viewer, and extensive plugin support.
Integrations & ecosystem
Double Commander integrates Total Commander plugins and cross‑platform workflows; Thunar limited to Xfce and optional archive plugin.
Collaboration
Neither product mentions collaboration features; both are standalone file managers.
Scalability
Double Commander’s cross‑platform nature and extensive format support scale better across environments.
Support
Thunar benefits from Xfce community integration; Double Commander relies on community‑driven support, which may be slower.
Choose Double Commander if…
Power users or IT pros needing dual‑pane workflow, extensive archive/remote support, and cross‑platform consistency.
Choose Thunar (XFCE) if…
Linux/Xfce users who prioritize speed, low RAM use, and a simple UI.
Common questions
Is there any cost to use either file manager?
Both Thunar and Double Commander are free and open source.
Can I manage remote files via FTP or SFTP?
Double Commander includes native FTP/SFTP/SSH support; Thunar does not provide this feature.
Will either manager work on Windows or macOS?
Thunar is limited to Linux/Xfce; Double Commander is cross‑platform and runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux.