bspwm

Website

github.com

Categories

#Utilities #Window Manager #Linux #Open Source

Openbox

Website

openbox.org

Categories

#Linux #Window Manager #Desktop Environments #Utilities

bspwm features and specs

• Highly Configurable
  Bspwm is known for its high level of customizability, allowing users to tweak almost every aspect of their window management experience through simple scripts and configuration files.
• Efficient Use of Screen Space
  As a tiling window manager, Bspwm automatically arranges windows in a way that maximizes screen real estate, minimizing overlap and unused space.
• Lightweight
  Bspwm is extremely lightweight, making it suitable for older hardware and systems with limited resources. It does not come with additional software bloat.
• Scriptable with Unix Philosophy
  Bspwm adheres to the Unix philosophy of 'doing one thing well'. It functions without managing keybindings, allowing users to use other programs (like sxhkd) for keybinding management, which offers greater flexibility.
• Active Community Support
  Bspwm has an active community and comprehensive documentation, which helps new users get started and troubleshoot any issues they might encounter.

Possible disadvantages of bspwm

• Steep Learning Curve
  The configuration process can be complex and overwhelming for beginners. Unlike more mainstream window managers, bspwm requires learning various scripts and commands.
• Lack of GUI Configuration Tools
  Bspwm does not come with graphical configuration tools, which might be inconvenient for users who prefer a GUI for managing settings.
• Sparse on Built-in Features
  Since bspwm follows the Unix philosophy closely, it lacks many built-in features and utilities that other window managers might offer. Users need to set up additional tools for tasks such as wallpaper management or system trays.
• Compatibility Issues
  Some applications that expect a floating window manager might not work well with bspwm, requiring extra configuration or using alternative software.
• Limited Out-of-the-box Experience
  Bspwm does not come with a pre-configured environment, which can be a disadvantage for users looking for a ready-to-use experience out of the box.

Openbox features and specs

• Lightweight
  Openbox is a highly efficient window manager that requires minimal system resources, making it an excellent choice for older hardware or systems with limited resources.
• Customizable
  Openbox offers extensive customization options, allowing users to tailor the look and feel of their desktop environment to their specific preferences.
• Fast Performance
  Due to its lightweight nature, Openbox provides fast and responsive performance, resulting in quicker application launches and smoother overall desktop experience.
• Comprehensive Keybindings
  Openbox supports complex keybindings, enabling power users to create efficient workflow setups through keyboard shortcuts.
• Extensible
  Openbox can work seamlessly with other tools and additional software, allowing users to extend its capabilities with tools like panels, widgets, and additional plugins.

Possible disadvantages of Openbox

• Steep Learning Curve
  Openbox requires a more hands-on approach and can be challenging for beginners to set up and configure due to its extensive customization options.
• Limited Out-of-the-box Features
  Unlike full desktop environments, Openbox does not come with many built-in features, requiring users to install and configure additional software to achieve a fully functional desktop.
• No Desktop Icons by Default
  Openbox does not support desktop icons natively, so users need to rely on additional tools like 'xfdesktop' or 'pcmanfm' to add this functionality.
• Minimalistic Appearance
  While some users appreciate the minimalistic look, others might find it too bare-bones compared to more feature-rich environments like GNOME or KDE.
• Manual Configuration
  Most customizations in Openbox require editing configuration files manually, which can be time-consuming and error-prone for users unfamiliar with text-based configurations.

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