GNOME Panel is a highly configurable launcher and taskbar for GNOME. It formed a core part of the GNOME desktop in versions 1.x and 2.x. It has been replaced in GNOME 3.x by default with GNOME Shell, which only works with the Mutter window manager. Developed by GNOME
License: Open Source
XLaunchpad is a lightweight and highly customizable application launcher primarily designed for X11 systems, while GnomePanel is more integrated into the GNOME desktop environment, offering easy access to settings and a more comprehensive suite of applets. Both serve the purpose of application launching but cater to different user needs and environments.