Bluetile review
A free Linux window manager for basic tiling, stacking, workspaces, and multihead use.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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.
Bluetile pros and cons
- 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
Bluetile fact sheet, pricing and score →
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update