bspwm

Website

github.com

Categories

#Utilities #Window Manager #Linux #Open Source

yabai

Website

github.com

Categories

#Window Manager #OSX Tools #OSX Window Manager #Mac Tools

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.

yabai features and specs

• Efficient Window Management
  Yabai provides advanced tiling window management for macOS, greatly increasing productivity by allowing users to manage windows through keyboard shortcuts and layouts, minimizing the need for mouse interactions.
• Highly Customizable
  The software offers extensive configuration options, enabling users to personalize their window management experience according to their specific workflow and preferences.
• Open Source
  Being open source, Yabai is free to use and modify, allowing the community to contribute to its development and enhancement. This fosters a collaborative environment for improving the software.
• Supports Scripting
  Yabai supports scripting through AppleScript or shell commands, enabling users to automate complex workflows and integrate Yabai with other tools and applications seamlessly.
• Lightweight
  Yabai is designed to be a lightweight window manager, which means it consumes minimal system resources, ensuring that your Mac continues to run smoothly even with numerous active windows.

Possible disadvantages of yabai

• Steep Learning Curve
  For beginners, the configuration and use of Yabai can be daunting, requiring a significant amount of time and effort to fully understand and utilize its capabilities effectively.
• Requires SIP Disablement
  To utilize some of Yabai's more advanced features, users need to partially disable System Integrity Protection (SIP), which can reduce the overall security of the macOS system.
• Potential Compatibility Issues
  As macOS updates and changes, compatibility issues may arise, potentially breaking functionality. Users may need to wait for updates from the developer community to resolve these issues.
• Limited Official Support
  As an open-source project, Yabai does not come with official support channels. Users must rely on community forums and documentation, which may not always provide immediate or comprehensive assistance.
• Complex Configurations
  Setting up Yabai to fit specific needs can be complex and time-consuming, especially for users who are not familiar with scripting or advanced configuration files.

Analysis of bspwm

Analysis of yabai

Switching To Bspwm - Initial Thoughts

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Yabai Demonstration

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