Broot
Broot: A capable cross-platform terminal file manager for search-heavy directory work. Ranked #11 of 29 in Terminal File Managers by our editors (8.1/10); pricing: Free plan; best for cross-platform browsing and search.
At a glance
- Editor score8.1 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forCross-platform browsing and search
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Dual-pane layoutYes
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Searches filenames, regular expressions, and file contents
- Multiple panels, previews, and staging support multi-file work
- Runs locally on Linux, macOS, and Windows with Git information
Where it doesn't
- The terminal interface may not suit users who prefer graphical file managers
- Native SFTP or FTP support is not part of the stated feature set
- Archive support is not included in the listed category capabilities
Our verdict on Broot
Broot is a free, open-source terminal file manager from Canop for users who want to navigate directories, find files, inspect content, and launch commands without leaving the command line. It runs locally on Linux, macOS, and Windows, making it a practical fit for developers, system administrators, and technical users who work across desktop platforms. Its directory overviews, hidden- and ignored-file toggles, preview panel, and filesystem usage views help turn large folder trees into something easier to scan.
Search is the central strength. Broot supports filename, regular-expression, and file-content searches, while sorting by file size or date provides additional ways to narrow a directory. Multiple navigable panels support side-by-side browsing, and the staging area lets users prepare commands for multiple files before running them. Built-in move, copy, remove, and mkdir operations cover common file-management tasks. Configurable commands, shortcuts, and shell integration also let the interface adapt to established terminal workflows. Git status and branch information add useful context when browsing repositories.
Broot is a strong choice for cross-platform browsing and search, especially when previews, batch actions, and repository context matter more than a graphical interface. It is less suitable for users who expect a conventional desktop file manager or built-in archive workflows. The product can browse mounted remote disks, but users seeking native remote protocols such as SFTP or FTP should choose a tool centered on that capability instead. Overall, Broot favors focused local file management and command-driven workflows over broad remote-access or archive-management coverage.
Your product? Our editors can test Broot in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
Broot pricing
Broot fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Dual-pane layout | Yes |
| Linux support | Yes |
| macOS support | Yes |
| Windows support | Yes |
| Preview pane | Yes |
| Remote file access | Not verified |
| Archive support | No |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | dystroy.org |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Broot
- NewtA free, open-source file manager for local work, remote sessions, archives, and search.9.4
- Rat CommanderA free, open-source file manager for keyboard-driven work across three desktop platforms.9.2
- FileManagerTUIA Vim-oriented, cross-platform terminal manager with previews, editing, batch actions, and S3 browsing.9.0
Used Broot? Be the first to review it
The editor score above is our own research. What this page doesn't have yet is a reader's view — what you used Broot for, what worked and what didn't. No stars are seeded and no review is paid for; an editor reads every one before it appears.
Write a reviewTwo minutes · verified accounts only · read by an editor before it appears
Featured on iTechGuides
Broot is listed in our Terminal File Managers directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.
<a href="https://www.itechguides.com/products/broot/"><img src="https://www.itechguides.com/best/badge/broot.svg" alt="Featured on iTechGuides" width="230" height="46"></a>
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update