ViPad

What ViPad is

ViPad is a free Windows desktop organizer for arranging shortcuts, files, and web links into labelled areas called pads. Users can place multiple pads across the desktop, add named tabs to one pad, or combine both layouts. A right-click command imports desktop shortcuts while skipping items already present. Live keyword search filters entries as users type, and pads paginate when full.

Optional snap-to-grid, icon sizes up to 256×256, and touch gestures for switching pages provide layout controls. On Windows 10 and 11, pads can use acrylic blur and rounded corners, with adjustable darkness, sheen, and borders. ViPad runs on Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7; the glass effect requires Windows 10 or later. Its maker publishes VB6 source on GitHub and says the current release builds from a clean checkout. The maker also says the app has no account, licence check, or in-app analytics and does not phone home. ViPad is free, requires no sign-up, and offers help through Discord. It does not include automatic sorting rules or saved desktop layouts.

Who it suits

ViPad suits Windows users who want to group desktop shortcuts, files, and links, including people using Windows 7 or 8. It may also suit users who prefer a free option without an account or licence check.

Limits

The free ViPad plan does not provide automatic sorting rules, saved desktop layouts, desktop double-click roll-up, or snapshot-and-restore. The glass appearance is limited to Windows 10 and 11.

Getting started

1. Open the ViPad website
2. Download and install ViPad on Windows
3. Create pads or a pad with named tabs
4. Use the right-click import command for desktop shortcuts
5. Arrange items and adjust appearance or grid settings

Verdict

ViPad offers flexible desktop grouping and search at no cost, with support for Windows versions back to 7. Its lack of automatic sorting and saved layouts may matter to users who want those features.