Desktop Frames+ is a free Windows utility that groups desktop items in virtual frames. Data Frames hold shortcuts, Portal Frames reflect folder contents, and Note Frames provide space for short text. Frames can contain multiple tabs, while workspace profiles can be switched manually or automatically when selected programs launch. Smart Desktop sorts incoming files into chosen Portal Frames or folders using rules set by the user. SpotSearch finds and launches shortcuts across frames; Peek Behind, Rollup and Auto-hide change frame visibility. Supported items include files, folders, web links, Microsoft Store apps, Steam games and Spotify URIs. Users can adjust frame colors and tint, match colors to wallpaper, select launch animations and assign icons. The software backs up layouts, settings and shortcuts daily, and supports exporting frames or tabs. Relative paths aid portability. Download it from GitHub Releases, extract the ZIP and run Desktop Frames.exe. The project specifies Windows 10/11 compatibility and says only user-writable locations are compatible. Its MIT License provides the software without warranty.
Who it is for
Desktop Frames+ suits Windows users who want to group desktop shortcuts, notes and folder contents into configurable areas. It may also help users who want incoming files sorted through their own rules.
What is good
- Supports multiple tabs and workspace profiles.
- Sorts incoming files using user-defined rules.
- Makes daily backups of layouts and shortcuts.
- Supports exporting frames or tabs.
- Free and open source.
What to know first
- Compatible with Windows 10/11 only.
- Only user-writable locations are compatible.
- Software is provided without warranty.
Verdict
Desktop Frames+ offers several ways to organize and find desktop items, with profiles, sorting rules and backups. Its stated compatibility is limited to Windows 10/11 and user-writable locations.
Desktop Frames+ plans and pricing
All plansCompared on desktop organization software
- Free plan
- Yes
- Platform support
- windows_only
- Organization model
- fenced_areas
- Automatic sorting
- Yes
- Saved layouts
- Yes
