FSearch review

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026

FSearch is a free, open-source desktop search utility for Linux and other Unix-like systems. It builds an index of selected folders, then returns filename and path results as you type. The tool suits users who want a fast way to locate files across local, removable, or network locations without adding content search, email search, OCR, or integrations to the workflow.

Search depth is the main strength. FSearch supports Boolean and advanced search syntax, wildcard queries, regular expressions, metadata filters, date, size, and type filters. Results can be filtered by file, folder, or all-result views, then sorted by filename, path, size, or modification time. Users can include or exclude folders from indexing, configure per-folder indexing options, monitor filesystem changes, and create custom filters. That combination gives Linux users considerable control over filename and path searches while keeping the product focused on desktop file discovery.

FSearch is distributed through Linux repositories and other Unix-like-system channels, with official packages or repositories listed for several Linux distributions, Flatpak, Solus, and FreeBSD. Its open-source model and free plan make it a practical choice for individual Linux users who prioritize speed, search syntax, and index control. Choose it when filename and path search are the core need. Choose an alternative when searching inside documents, finding email, extracting text through OCR, or connecting search with other applications is essential.

FSearch pros and cons

• Where it wins
  • Instant-as-you-type results with indexed local, removable, or network locations
  • Boolean, wildcard, regular-expression, metadata, date, size, and type search
  • Folder controls, filesystem monitoring, sorting, and custom filters
• Where it doesn't
  • Searches filenames and paths, not file contents
  • No email, OCR, or third-party integrations
  • Focused on Linux and other Unix-like systems

FSearch fact sheet, pricing and score →

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Last updated 28 Sep 2026 · How we research and update