i3 vs Openbox : Which is Better?
i3
i3 is a tiling window manager, completely written from scratch. The target platforms are GNU/Linux and BSD operating systems, our code is Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) under the BSD license. i3 is primarily targeted at advanced users and developers.
License: Open Source
i3 VS Openbox
i3 is a tiling window manager designed for keyboard-centric users, offering efficient window management and extensive customization, while Openbox is a stacking window manager that is user-friendly, with better mouse support and easier configuration. i3 is ideal for users who need advanced window management features, whereas Openbox caters to those looking for a simple and efficient desktop experience.
i3
Pros:
- Highly efficient tiling window management
- Low resource usage
- Great for keyboard-centric users
- Highly customizable through configuration
- Strong community support
- Good for programming and technical tasks
- Dynamic window management capabilities
- Supports multiple monitors effectively
- Extensive scripting options
- Suitable for advanced users
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Less intuitive for mouse users
- Limited support for stacking windows
- Requires manual configuration
- Not suitable for users who prefer visual management
- Can be overwhelming for beginners
- Less suitable for casual usage
- Limited built-in theme options
- Requires familiarity with keyboard shortcuts
- Not ideal for touch-based interfaces
Openbox
Pros:
- User-friendly and easier to set up
- Great mouse support and stacking features
- Good for casual users and desktop environments
- Highly customizable through themes
- Lightweight and fast
- Excellent for general desktop usage
- Allows for easy manipulation of windows
- Widely used with various desktop environments
- Good default configurations
- Supports floating windows easily
Cons:
- Lacks tiling support
- May not be efficient for advanced users
- Can become cluttered with many open windows
- Less optimal for multi-tasking
- Customization can be limited compared to i3
- Not as efficient with keyboard shortcuts
- Less suitable for programming environments
- Performance may vary on low-end machines
- Less extensibility compared to i3
- May require additional setup for advanced features
Compare i3
