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Microsoft Gadgets vs Screenfetch

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

Microsoft Gadgets icon
Microsoft Gadgets
Screenfetch icon
Screenfetch

Microsoft Gadgets vs Screenfetch: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

Microsoft Gadgets: Microsoft Gadgets were mini-applications and feeds that could be placed on the Windows Vista and Windows 7 desktop. They provided information at a glance, like news feeds, clocks, and slideshows.

Screenfetch: Screenfetch is a command-line system information and ASCII logo display tool for Linux and BSD systems. It can show basic system info, distro logos and mascots in terminal.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Microsoft Gadgets Screenfetch
Sugggest Score — —
Category Os & Utilities Os & Utilities
Pricing — Open Source

Product Overview

Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets

Description: Microsoft Gadgets were mini-applications and feeds that could be placed on the Windows Vista and Windows 7 desktop. They provided information at a glance, like news feeds, clocks, and slideshows.

Type: software

Screenfetch
Screenfetch

Description: Screenfetch is a command-line system information and ASCII logo display tool for Linux and BSD systems. It can show basic system info, distro logos and mascots in terminal.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Key Features Comparison

Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets Features
  • Mini-applications that run on Windows desktop
  • Displayed information like news, weather, clocks, calendars
  • Customizable widgets for personal use
  • RSS/Atom feed support
  • Sidebar for organizing gadgets
  • Scripting support
Screenfetch
Screenfetch Features
  • Displays system information like OS, hostname, kernel version, etc
  • Displays ASCII distribution logo art
  • Highly customizable output
  • Lightweight and fast

Pros & Cons Analysis

Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets

Pros

  • Convenient at-a-glance information
  • Highly customizable and personalizable
  • Added functionality to the desktop
  • Easy to install and use

Cons

  • Security vulnerabilities
  • Performance impact on some systems
  • Limited selection of gadgets
  • Discontinued in Windows 8
Screenfetch
Screenfetch

Pros

  • Simple and easy to use
  • Helpful for showing system info when making tutorials/screencasts
  • Nice way to display distro art in terminal

Cons

  • Limited usefulness beyond novelty purposes
  • Not installed by default on most distros

Pricing Comparison

Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets
  • Not listed
Screenfetch
Screenfetch
  • Open Source

Related Comparisons

Learn More About Each Product

Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Screenfetch
Screenfetch
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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