Openbox review
Openbox offers flexible window rules and virtual desktops in a free Linux window manager.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Openbox is a free, open-source window manager for Linux systems using the X Window System. It suits users who want to shape how windows behave rather than rely on default desktop window management. Mouse interactions and key bindings are configurable, and application-specific rules can control placement, sizing, decorations, and desktop assignment. Dynamic virtual desktops can be added or removed, with focus cycling across desktops.
Openbox has a flexible desktop-environment fit: it can run as a standalone session or replace the window manager in GNOME, KDE, or LXDE. It also supports multiple screens through Xinerama or TwinView. Themes and window decorations can be customized, while dynamic and cached pipe menus provide another way to organize access to commands. That combination makes it relevant to Linux users who want window behavior tailored to their workflow and who are comfortable configuring a window manager.
Openbox is distributed under the GNU General Public License and is available as source code and through Linux distributions. The official download page lists version 3.6.1. Its focus is window management rather than a complete desktop environment, so users seeking a turnkey graphical environment or a manager for platforms beyond Linux should look elsewhere. Choose Openbox for configurable rules, virtual desktops, and desktop-environment flexibility; skip it if minimal setup and an all-in-one desktop experience matter more.
Openbox pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Set per-application placement, sizing, decoration, and desktop rules
- Add or remove virtual desktops dynamically and cycle focus across them
- Run standalone or integrate with GNOME, KDE, and LXDE
- Where it doesn't
- Designed for Linux systems using the X Window System
- Multiple-screen support relies on Xinerama or TwinView
- Its extensive configuration may not suit users seeking a simple graphical setup
Openbox fact sheet, pricing and score →
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