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Bluetile

Free#38 of 65 in Window Management Software

Bluetile: A free Linux window manager for basic tiling, stacking, workspaces, and multihead use. Ranked #38 of 65 in Window Management Software by our editors (5.5/10); pricing: Free plan; best for linux users wanting basic tiling and stacking.

5.5/10Editor score
Bluetile5.5 Visit Bluetile

At a glance

  • Editor score
    5.5 / 10
  • Pricing
    Free plan
  • Best for
    Linux users wanting basic tiling and stacking
  • Free plan
    Yes
  • Paid from
    Free
  • Facts checked
    22 Sep 2026
  • Where it wins

    • Free and open source for Linux users
    • Supports horizontal, vertical, and stacking layouts
    • Includes workspaces, multihead support, and GNOME integration
  • Where it doesn't

    • No verified application rules or advanced automation
    • Focused on Linux and GNOME-based desktop use
    • Version 0.6 was released in 2011

Our verdict on Bluetile

Bluetile is an open-source window manager for Linux that integrates with the GNOME desktop. It is designed for users who want both tiled and traditional stacking layouts without giving up mouse controls. Its feature set covers horizontal and vertical tiling, window maximization and minimization, fullscreen application handling, workspace switching, window movement, and configurable keyboard shortcuts and settings. Bluetile can replace the existing window manager under GNOME, making it a fit for Linux users who want basic layout control within that desktop environment.

The layout options are broader than simple tiling alone. Users can switch between stacking, horizontal tiling, and vertical tiling, while workspace controls support moving windows between virtual desktops. Multihead and physical-screen support extends the window-management model across multiple displays. Both mouse and keyboard controls are available, and integration with GNOME and Metacity helps position Bluetile within an existing Linux desktop workflow. Distribution through Linux package managers and Hackage also gives the project established installation paths for its target platform.

Bluetile is most suitable for users who value a free, open-source manager with straightforward tiling, stacking, workspaces, and multihead support. Its published feature set does not include application rules or advanced automation, so users seeking policy-based window placement or more programmable behavior should choose a tool with deeper automation features instead. The project lists version 0.6, released in 2011, and its current maintenance status is unclear; that makes it a better fit for users comfortable with a focused, older Linux window-management project than for those prioritizing ongoing development signals.

Your product? Our editors can test Bluetile in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →

Bluetile pricing

Plans Free planFree Free to use — no paid tier required for the core job.
See plans on bluetile.org

Bluetile fact sheet

Free planYes
Paid fromFree
Platformslinux
Maximum displaysNot verified
Layout presetsNot verified
Application rulesNot verified
Window groupingNot verified
Virtual desktop controlsYes
DeploymentDesktop
PlatformsLinux
SupportDocs
Built forSolo, Small business (editorial estimate)
Integrations2 integrations: GNOME, Metacity
PricingFree plan
Websitebluetile.org
Facts checked22 Sep 2026

Bluetile integrations

Bluetile lists 2 integrations on its own site.

  • GNOME
  • Metacity

Alternatives to Bluetile

See all Bluetile alternatives →

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Featured on iTechGuides

Featured on iTechGuides — Bluetile 5.5/10

Bluetile is listed in our Window Management Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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