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Comparison · File managers

Nautilus vs Total Commander: which is better in 2026?

NautilusvsTotal Commander

Total Commander ranks higher in our list of file managers (#1 against #6, score 92.0 against 82.0).

Choose Nautilus if you want

GNOME desktop users who want a simple default manager.

The default file manager of the GNOME desktop, simple and well integrated, with icon grid, list and tree views. It has no dual-panel mode and runs on Linux only.

Choose Total Commander if you want

Power users on Windows who work with dual panels and FTP.

The most established dual-panel manager here for Windows, with tabs, a multi-rename tool and a built-in FTP client with FTPS. It costs 42 euros per license, unlike the open-source options in this list.

The main differences

  • Only Nautilus runs on Linux.
  • Only Total Commander runs on Windows.
  • Nautilus is open source; Total Commander is not.
  • Nautilus can be used for free; Total Commander requires payment.

Side by side

NautilusTotal Commander
Score82.092.0
Rank in list#6 of 6#1 of 6
PriceFree and open sourceFree and open source; install from FlathubPaidShareware; license costs 42 euros with free updates after registration
Free to useYesNo
Open sourceYesNo
PlatformsLinuxLinuxWindowsWindows
Made byGNOME ProjectGhisler Software GmbH
LayoutSingle paneDual panels, tabs
Best forGNOME desktop users who want a simple default managerPower users on Windows who work with dual panels and FTP
Strengths
  • Default file manager of the GNOME desktop
  • Plugins and scripts extend its functions
  • Dual-pane layout with tabs and a multi-rename tool
  • Built-in FTP client with FTPS support
Limits
  • Runs on Linux only
  • Single-pane layout, unlike dual-panel managers
  • Paid shareware license
  • Windows only; Mac users are pointed to other tools
LinksVisit site Visit site

Questions about Nautilus vs Total Commander

Is Total Commander better than Nautilus?
Total Commander ranks higher in our list of file managers (#1 against #6, score 92.0 against 82.0). Nautilus is best for: gNOME desktop users who want a simple default manager. Total Commander is best for: power users on Windows who work with dual panels and FTP.
Which is cheaper, Nautilus or Total Commander?
Nautilus: Free and open source; install from Flathub. Total Commander: Shareware; license costs 42 euros with free updates after registration.
Do Nautilus and Total Commander run on the same platforms?
Nautilus supports Linux. Total Commander supports Windows.