How do I fuzzy-search and switch between open buffers in Vim?

Explanation

The fzf.vim plugin provides the :Buffers command, which opens a fuzzy-searchable list of all your open buffers. Instead of memorizing buffer numbers or cycling through them one by one with :bnext, you type a few characters to instantly narrow down and jump to the buffer you need.

How it works

With fzf.vim installed and configured, run:

:Buffers

A floating window (or split, depending on your configuration) appears listing every open buffer. Start typing any part of the filename, path, or buffer number to fuzzy-filter the list. Press <CR> to open the selected buffer in the current window.

Key bindings inside the fzf window

<CR>      " open selected buffer in the current window
<C-t>     " open selected buffer in a new tab
<C-x>     " open selected buffer in a horizontal split
<C-v>     " open selected buffer in a vertical split
<C-j>     " move selection down
<C-k>     " move selection up
<Esc>     " cancel and close the fzf window

Recommended mapping

Add a fast key binding to your vimrc so you can summon the buffer list instantly:

nnoremap <leader>b :Buffers<CR>

Now pressing <leader>b at any time brings up the fuzzy buffer switcher.

Why this beats built-in buffer commands

With :Buffers, you type any substring — a directory name, a file extension, or even part of the path — and the fuzzy matcher finds it immediately.

Preview support

Enable buffer previews by adding to your vimrc:

let g:fzf_vim = {}
let g:fzf_vim.preview_window = ['right,50%', 'ctrl-/']

Now the :Buffers window shows a live preview of each buffer's content as you move through the list, making it easy to find the right file even when names are similar.

Tips

• Combine :Buffers with :Files and :Rg to cover the three main navigation patterns: switching buffers, opening new files, and searching file contents
• Use :History from fzf.vim to fuzzy-search recently opened files, including closed buffers
• fzf.vim requires the fzf binary — install it with brew install fzf on macOS or your system's package manager
• For Neovim users, telescope.nvim offers a similar experience with its :Telescope buffers command