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Enable Single Click in Ubuntu File Manager

Richard
Written by
Richard
Sep 9, 2022 Updated Jun 20, 2026 1 min read
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You can enable single-click to open files and folders in Ubuntu’s default file manager, changing the standard double-click behavior.

This adjustment lets you open items with just one click, significantly speeding up your workflow on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and other recent versions.

While Ubuntu traditionally uses double-click to prevent accidental openings, switching to single-click is a simple preference change. You’ll still select items with a single click, and holding CTRL will allow for multi-selection just like before.

⚡ Quick Answer

Open File Manager and go to Preferences. Under the General tab, select “Single-click” for the “Action to Open Items” option to enable single-click opening. You can switch back to double-click by selecting that option instead.

How to turn on or off single-click to open an item on Ubuntu Linux

You can easily turn on single-click mode in the Ubuntu File Manager to open files and folders with just one click, instead of the usual two.

Open the File Manager, then navigate to Options, then Preferences (the settings menu).

Ubuntu File Manager preferences window showing options
open file manager preferences in ubuntu linux

In the General tab, find the ‘Action to Open Items’ setting and select ‘Single click.’

  • Single click
  • Double click

To change back to Double click, choose that instead.

Changing click action in Ubuntu File Manager settings
ubuntu change click action file manager

Your changes should take effect right away.

And that’s all there is to it!

Conclusion:

  • Switching to single-click mode in Ubuntu Linux makes file and folder navigation more accessible for users who struggle with double-clicking.
  • Users can easily revert to the default double-click mode by following the provided steps to adjust preferences in File Manager.
  • These straightforward adjustments enhance the usability and ergonomics of Ubuntu Linux for a wider range of individuals.

That sums up enabling or disabling single-click mode in Ubuntu Linux!

How do I turn off single click in File Explorer?

At the top of File Explorer, on the View tab, click Options. On the resulting dialog, you can disable the option to use a single click to open items.

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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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