FSearchLinux
vs
PowerToys RunWindows
FSearch as a Linux alternative to PowerToys Run
Updated
Our verdict
FSearch can replace PowerToys Run for users who mainly need a quick file search and launch from a keyboard shortcut, but it lacks the full launcher features such as running arbitrary commands, calculating expressions, or integrating with the desktop environment. It is suitable for Linux users who want a fast, GTK‑based file finder and are comfortable using a separate launcher for applications, whereas PowerToys Run users who rely on its command‑execution and calculation shortcuts will find FSearch insufficient.
- License
- GPL-2.0-or-later
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 0.3.2 (September 20, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both can be opened with a keyboard shortcut
- Both provide instant search results as you type
- Both support fuzzy or case‑insensitive matching
- Both allow launching files or applications from the results
What is different
- FSearch does not support launching arbitrary commands or scripts
- It cannot perform calculations like PowerToys Run
- It lacks desktop‑environment integration for quick app launching
- FSearch is limited to file and folder search, not a general application launcher
- It cannot export or import PowerToys Run configuration files
Opening your PowerToys Run files
PowerToys Run does not use external configuration files that can be directly opened by FSearch; there is no known method to import or export settings between the two applications.
Switching from PowerToys Run to FSearch, step by step
- 1. Install FSearch from your distribution’s package manager or Flathub.
- 2. Set a global keyboard shortcut (e.g., Alt+Space) to launch FSearch via your desktop environment’s keyboard settings.
- 3. Use the search box to locate the application you want to run and double‑click or press Enter to launch it.
- 4. For custom commands, create a script in a folder that is in your PATH and search for the script name in FSearch.
- 5. If you need calculation support, use a separate calculator application or the terminal.
Key features of FSearch
- Instant search results as you type
- Case‑insensitive matching
- Regular expression support
- Wildcard and filter options (e.g., audio only)
- Exclude specific folders or patterns
- Sortable columns: name, path, size, date, extension
- GTK‑based UI with dark/light themes
How to install FSearch on Linux
flatpak install flathub io.github.cboxdoerfer.FSearchsudo apt install fsearchsudo pacman -S fsearchFrequently asked questions
Can I run a script directly from FSearch?
Yes, if the script is executable and in a directory listed in your PATH, you can type its name in FSearch and press Enter to execute it.
Does FSearch support launching applications from the menu?
FSearch can open application files (.desktop) if they are located in the search path; double‑clicking the entry will launch the application.
Is there a way to add PowerToys Run custom shortcuts to FSearch?
FSearch does not manage custom shortcuts; you need to create separate keyboard shortcuts in your desktop environment to launch scripts or applications.