Side by side
eXtra Buttons vs herbstluftwm
Both stand on window management software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Windows
eXtra Buttons offers configurable caption controls, shortcuts, and bookmarks at no listed cost. Its stated Windows compatibility and displayed beta version are worth checking against your needs.
Visit eXtra Buttons
Free plan LinuxMac
herbstluftwm offers detailed, keyboard-driven window arrangement and configuration at runtime. It is specifically a manual tiling window manager for X, so that scope should fit your setup and preferences.
Visit herbstluftwmThe facts
| eXtra Buttons | herbstluftwm | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Windows | Linux, Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | xtrabuttons.com | herbstluftwm.org |
| On window management software | #19 of 65 | #15 of 65 |
eXtra Buttons: what it does well
- Offers 13 window-button choices.
- Users can customize button quantity and order.
- Supports keyboard shortcuts for individual buttons.
- Freeware with donation support.
What to know first
- Homepage describes Windows versions through Windows 7.
- Displayed version is 2.2.5 beta.
- Duplicate shortcut combinations are not allowed.
herbstluftwm: what it does well
- Configuration changes take effect without restarting
- Keyboard control for moving, resizing, and focusing
- Virtual monitors can differ from physical displays
- Licensed under the Simplified BSD License
What to know first
- Designed for the X window system
- Mac OS X installation is through MacPorts
- Uses manual tiling rather than automatic placement
Alternatives to eXtra Buttons Alternatives to herbstluftwm The whole list