GlazeWM

Name: GlazeWM
Brand: GlazeWM

Free, open-source i3-inspired tiling window manager for Windows

softwareWindow Managementwindow-managertilingopen-source

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Our Verdict

Best for

Windows users who want an i3-style keyboard-driven tiling workflow for free

Skip if

You prefer a mouse-driven, floating-window desktop experience

What is GlazeWM?

GlazeWM is a free, open-source tiling window manager for Windows built in the style of i3, arranging application windows automatically into non-overlapping tiles instead of requiring manual resizing and dragging. It is fully keyboard-driven, letting users navigate, resize, and move windows across a YAML-configured layout without touching the mouse. The project supports multi-monitor setups, customizable per-window rules, and pairs with the same developer's Zebar tool for a configurable status bar. It is backed by an active GitHub repository and a Discord community of more than 2,000 members, with development ongoing including early macOS support.

SpecificationsAI-estimated

deploymentDesktop App

open source✅ Yes

api available❌ No

support optionsDiscord, GitHub Issues

Key Features of GlazeWM

Automatically arranges open windows into non-overlapping tiles instead of free-floating placement.

Provides full keyboard shortcuts for moving, resizing, and switching focus between windows.

Configured through a human-readable YAML file, making setups easy to version and share.

Supports multiple monitors with independent workspaces per display.

Allows custom per-window rules to control how specific applications are tiled or floated.

Integrates with the companion Zebar tool for a customizable status bar.

Use Cases for GlazeWM

Keyboard-first multitasking

Manage many open windows entirely from the keyboard without reaching for the mouse.

Multi-monitor development setups

Keep editors, terminals, and browsers automatically tiled across several monitors.

Reproducible workspace configs

Share a YAML config file across machines to recreate the same window layout and shortcuts.

Minimalist desktop customization

Pair with Zebar for a lightweight, script-configurable desktop replacing default Windows window chrome habits.

Pros & Cons of GlazeWM

Pros

Completely free and open source under GPL-3.0
Keyboard-driven workflow speeds up window management
Active Discord community and regular GitHub releases
YAML config makes setups portable and version-controllable

Cons

Requires editing a config file, less approachable than GUI window tools
Tiling workflow has a learning curve for users new to i3-style managers
macOS support is still early and in progress

Frequently Asked Questions

Is GlazeWM free?

Yes, GlazeWM is free and open source, licensed under GPL-3.0 on GitHub.

Does GlazeWM support multiple monitors?

Yes, it supports multi-monitor setups with independent workspaces per display.

Does GlazeWM work on macOS?

GlazeWM is primarily built for Windows; macOS support is mentioned as in progress but not yet a primary target.

How is GlazeWM configured?

Through a YAML configuration file that defines keybindings, window rules, and layout behavior.

Pricing Overview

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Free

Detailed plans are not listed. Visit the official website for pricing information.

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DisplayFusion is a Windows utility built around managing multiple monitors, giving each display its own taskbar, independent wallpaper, and window arrangement profiles. It solves common multi-monitor annoyances like wallpaper stretching across screens or windows opening on the wrong display by giving fine-grained per-monitor control. The free version covers basic multi-monitor taskbars and wallpaper management, while the paid Pro version unlocks automation Triggers, monitor splitting into virtual displays, remote control from a phone, and deeper Windows 10/11 customization options. Licenses are sold as one-time lifetime purchases rather than subscriptions.

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