Best Free Window Managers

Xmonad – dynamically tiling X11 window manager

Xmonad is a minimalist, tiling window manager for X, written in the functional programming language Haskell. Windows are managed using automatic layout algorithms, which can be dynamically reconfigured. At any time windows are arranged so as to maximise the use of screen real estate.

All features of the window manager are accessible purely from the keyboard: a mouse is entirely optional.

Xmonad is configured in Haskell, and custom layout algorithms may be implemented by the user in config files. A principle of Xmonad is predictability: the user should know in advance precisely the window arrangement that will result from any action.

Features include:

  • Very stable, fast, small and simple.
  • Automates the common task of arranging windows, so you can concentrate on getting tasks completed.
  • First class keyboard support: a mouse is unnecessary.
  • Minimalistic – no window decorations, no status bar, no icon dock.
  • Stable.
  • Extensible.
  • Per-screen workspaces.
  • Xinerama support for multihead displays.
  • Managehooks.
  • Tiling reflection.
  • State preservation.
  • Layout mirroring.
  • Full support for floating, tabbing and decorated windows.
  • Full support for GNOME and KDE utilities.
  • Per-workspace layout algorithms.
  • Per-screens custom status bars.
  • Compositing support.
  • Powerful, stable customisation and on-the-fly reconfiguration.
  • Large extension library.
  • Locale support.

Website: xmonad.org
Support: Documentation
Developer: Spencer Janssen, Don Stewart, Jason Creighton and many contributors
License: BSD-3

Xmonad

Xmonad is written in Haskell. Learn Haskell with our recommended free books and free tutorials.

Return to Dynamic Window Managers | Return to Window Managers


Popular series
Free and Open Source SoftwareThe largest compilation of the best free and open source software in the universe. Each article is supplied with a legendary ratings chart helping you to make informed decisions.
ReviewsHundreds of in-depth reviews offering our unbiased and expert opinion on software. We offer helpful and impartial information.
The Big List of Active Linux Distros is a large compilation of actively developed Linux distributions.
Alternatives to Proprietary SoftwareReplace proprietary software with open source alternatives: Google, Microsoft, Apple, Adobe, IBM, Autodesk, Oracle, Atlassian, Corel, Cisco, Intuit, and SAS.
GamesAwesome Free Linux Games Tools showcases a series of tools that making gaming on Linux a more pleasurable experience. This is a new series.
Artificial intelligence iconMachine Learning explores practical applications of machine learning and deep learning from a Linux perspective. We've written reviews of more than 40 self-hosted apps. All are free and open source.
Guide to LinuxNew to Linux? Read our Linux for Starters series. We start right at the basics and teach you everything you need to know to get started with Linux.
Alternatives to popular CLI tools showcases essential tools that are modern replacements for core Linux utilities.
System ToolsEssential Linux system tools focuses on small, indispensable utilities, useful for system administrators as well as regular users.
ProductivityLinux utilities to maximise your productivity. Small, indispensable tools, useful for anyone running a Linux machine.
AudioSurveys popular streaming services from a Linux perspective: Amazon Music Unlimited, Myuzi, Spotify, Deezer, Tidal.
Saving Money with LinuxSaving Money with Linux looks at how you can reduce your energy bills running Linux.
Home ComputersHome computers became commonplace in the 1980s. Emulate home computers including the Commodore 64, Amiga, Atari ST, ZX81, Amstrad CPC, and ZX Spectrum.
Now and ThenNow and Then examines how promising open source software fared over the years. It can be a bumpy ride.
Linux at HomeLinux at Home looks at a range of home activities where Linux can play its part, making the most of our time at home, keeping active and engaged.
Linux CandyLinux Candy reveals the lighter side of Linux. Have some fun and escape from the daily drudgery.
DockerGetting Started with Docker helps you master Docker, a set of platform as a service products that delivers software in packages called containers.
Android AppsBest Free Android Apps. We showcase free Android apps that are definitely worth downloading. There's a strict eligibility criteria for inclusion in this series.
Programming BooksThese best free books accelerate your learning of every programming language. Learn a new language today!
Programming TutorialsThese free tutorials offer the perfect tonic to our free programming books series.
Linux Around The WorldLinux Around The World showcases usergroups that are relevant to Linux enthusiasts. Great ways to meet up with fellow enthusiasts.
Stars and StripesStars and Stripes is an occasional series looking at the impact of Linux in the USA.
Subscribe
Notify of
guest

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Please read our FAQ before making a comment.

0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments