nnn - The unorthodox terminal file manager

Sep 22, 2022 · 1 min read · file manager directory changer tui  ·
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nnn is a compact and fast TUI file manager with all the expected features of a well designed program.

nnn is a file manager focusing on being extremely compact, with a binary of around 100Kb and an average memory usage of 3.5MB, and portable. The user interface is minimalistic, clean and equipped with all the necessary information.

While providing all the features of a complete file manager, it is easy to use and relatively well discoverable, in the sense that the typical usage can start from the use of arrow keys, / for searching, and q do quit. The Tab key creates and/or cycles contexts, and ? lists the shortcuts.

A feature that I like in particular is the navigate-as-you-type, which allows to travel across the directory by just typing few letters to enter each new directory.

With the proper shell configuration, nnn can be used as directory changer, so that when the user leaves the program he/she is left in the last visited directory.

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