Ratpoison
Ratpoison is an open-source tiling window manager for the X Window System. It aims to provide keyboard-only interaction, with no reliance on the mouse. It has minimal aesthetics and is configured through plain text files, making it lightweight and customizable.
tiling
keyboard
lightweight
customizable
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Ratpoison: Lightweight Tiling Window Manager for X Window System
Open-source tiling window manager with keyboard-only interaction, minimal aesthetics, and plain text file configuration
What is Ratpoison?
Ratpoison is an open-source tiling window manager for the X Window System. It aims to provide keyboard-only interaction, avoiding reliance on the mouse. Windows are tiled and arranged automatically to maximize screen space.
Some key features of Ratpoison:
- Keyboard driven interface - All window management can be done with keyboard shortcuts instead of the mouse.
- Tiling windows - Application windows tile automatically to make optimal use of screen real estate.
- Minimalist design - The interface is designed to be simple and lightweight.
- Plain text configuration - Settings are configured by editing text files manually instead of a GUI.
- Customizable - Shortcuts, layouts, settings can be customized as needed.
Ratpoison is designed for advanced users who prefer keyboard interaction over the mouse. The tradeoff is less graphical options and visual aesthetics for speed and efficiency via the keyboard. Customization allows Ratpoison to suit particular workflows. Its low resource usage makes it well-suited for older or minimal hardware.
Ratpoison Features
Features
- Keyboard driven tiling window manager
- Minimalist and lightweight
- Customizable through plain text configuration files
- Keyboard shortcuts for window management and navigation
- Support for multiple desktops and layouts
- Can be controlled without a mouse
Pricing
- Open Source
Pros
Very efficient for keyboard users
Low resource usage and system overhead
Highly customizable
Promotes keyboard-centric workflows
Tiling layout improves screen space utilization
Cons
Steep learning curve
No mouse support
Minimal aesthetics and theming
Less intuitive than mainstream window managers
Limited integration with desktop environments
Official Links
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