Last Updated on March 8, 2026
fsel is a fast TUI app launcher and fuzzy finder for Linux and *BSD.
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- Smart Matching: Searches names, descriptions, keywords, and categories.
- Usage History: Frequently used apps appear higher in results.
- Desktop Filtering: Respects OnlyShowIn/NotShowIn fields.
- PATH Executables: Optionally show CLI tools from $PATH.
- Match Modes: Fuzzy (default) or exact matching.
- Pin/Favorite Apps: Press Ctrl-Space to pin apps – they’ll always appear first (marked with 📌).
- Custom Keybinds: All keyboard shortcuts are configurable.
Website: github.com/Mjoyufull/fsel
Support:
Developer: Mjoyufull
License: BSD 2-Clause “Simplified” License
fsel is written in Rust. Learn Rust with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
Related Software
| Terminal-Based Application Launchers | |
|---|---|
| fsel | Fast TUI app launcher and fuzzy finder |
| xstarter | Lives in the terminal and works well with tiling window managers |
| pmenu | Dynamic terminal-based menu inspired by dmenu |
| dtsl | Fuzzy search and extensive theming support |
Read our verdict in the software roundup.
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