bspwm

Bspwm

bspwm is a lightweight, keyboard-driven tiling window manager for Linux. It organizes windows in a binary space partitioning layout for efficient use of screen space. Configuration is done mostly through external scripts rather than built-in settings.
bspwm image
tiling keyboarddriven lightweight binary-space-partitioning efficient-screen-space external-configuration

bspwm: Lightweight Tiling Window Manager for Linux

A binary space partitioning layout tiling window manager for efficient screen use, with configuration mostly done through external scripts

What is Bspwm?

bspwm is a tiling window manager for Linux that represents windows as leaves in a full binary tree. It features multi-monitor support, per-monitor workspaces, gaps between windows, custom keyboard and mouse bindings, and external configuration and control via bspc.

Some key features of bspwm include:

  • Window tiling and automatic space allocation based on binary space partitioning algorithm
  • Keyboard-driven workflows and minimal reliance on mouse
  • Multi-monitor support with independent workspaces per monitor
  • Minimalist design and lightweight system resource usage
  • External control and configuration via the bspc utility and shell scripts
  • Automatic addition of window gaps for padding between windows
  • Rule-based system to automatically place windows on the tree

Since bspwm aims for simplicity and flexibility, it lacks some built-in features of other tiling window managers like tiles presets or fancy window decorations. However, its spartan design makes it very customizable through external scripts and tools. bspwm is a good fit for users who prefer keyboard-focused workflows and configuring behaviors to suit their needs.

Bspwm Features

Features

  1. Binary space partitioning window layout
  2. Keyboard driven window management
  3. Flexible rule-based configuration
  4. Support for multi-monitor setups
  5. Minimal resource usage

Pricing

  • Open Source

Pros

Very efficient use of screen space

Highly customizable with scripts

Lightweight and fast

Keyboard shortcuts for window management

Low memory footprint

Cons

Steep learning curve

Manual configuration required

Lack of GUI or menu

Not beginner friendly

Requires external scripts for some functionality


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