Qtile

Qtile

Qtile is a tiling window manager for Linux that is written in Python. It allows you to arrange your windows in a grid or stacking layout and provides keyboard shortcuts to easily navigate between them. Qtile is designed to be lightweight, flexible, and scriptable.
Qtile image
python tiling keyboard-shortcuts lightweight flexible scriptable

Qtile: Lightweight Tiling Window Manager for Linux

A Python-based tiling window manager for Linux with grid or stacking layout options and customizable keyboard shortcuts, designed for flexibility and scriptability.

What is Qtile?

Qtile is a dynamic tiling window manager for Linux that is designed to be simple, lightweight, and extensible. It is written in Python and uses OpenGL for rendering. Some key features of Qtile include:

  • Customizable layouts and workflows - Qtile supports floating, monocle, max, grid, spiral, and other layouts. You can customize layouts, windows, and workspaces (virtual desktops) to create tailored workflows.
  • Keyboard-driven - Qtile uses keyboard shortcuts rather than mouse interactions for managing windows and workspaces. This allows for efficient window control.
  • Extensible and hackable - Since Qtile is written in Python, it is easy to modify and extend with custom functionality by writing new plug-ins.
  • Supports multiple monitors - Qtile can manage windows across multiple monitors and allows you to define per-screen workspaces/layouts.
  • Integrates well with other tools - Qtile integrates nicely with common Linux tools like dmenu, i3-style statuss bars, and more.

In summary, Qtile is a good fit for developers and Linux power users looking for a hackable, minimalist window manager focused on keyboard usage and customizing workflows. Since it's written in Python, it is easy to tweak and extend.

Qtile Features

Features

  1. Tiling window manager
  2. Automatic window placement
  3. Keyboard-driven workflow
  4. Customizable layouts
  5. Python scripting support
  6. Status bar support
  7. Multi-monitor support

Pricing

  • Open Source

Pros

Lightweight and fast

Highly customizable

Keyboard-centric workflow

Scriptable configuration

Active development community

Cons

Steep learning curve

Limited floating window support

No GUI configuration tool

Less features than some other tiling WMs


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