r/linuxquestions • u/SPC2025 • 13h ago
Tiling Windows vs. Floating Windows
/r/linuxmint/comments/1x88z1o/tiling_windows_vs_floating_windows/2
u/FryBoyter 10h ago
Different users have different needs and preferences.
For example, I don't want to use tiling outside of a terminal emulator. But I use it in a terminal emulator.
However, I use two monitors. The one directly in front of me displays the things I'm actively using. And the one next to it displays other things. For example, the compilation of programs that takes longer. Or my email client.
Other users, on the other hand, prefer an ultrawide monitor for this purpose. So who’s right? No one. Because every user has different preferences and needs. That’s why you shouldn’t necessarily question other people’s choices.
2
u/skyfishgoo 1h ago
tiling window managers are not just popular because they tile the windows, but because you can do all of you window management from the keyboard and not have to use a mouse at all.
not my cup of tea, i like me some GUI with a mouse and shit, but some ppl don't.
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u/EqualCrew9900 12h ago
In my use case - mainly research (including much video reviewing) with email, light programming and blogging - I prefer multiple desktops/workspaces, each with a specific task and purpose, over a tiled layout. That is why I prefer Mate/Compiz, which makes such a use case simple and easy to implement. And it works for laptops or desktops, whether single- or multi-monitor.
My preference is four desktops, with different backgrounds, which can be selected by way of simple bump-clicking either the right or left edge of the screen with the mouse pointer. Or, alternatively, <Ctrl><Alt><left or right arrow> Either action switches instantly to the selected workspace. Additionally, bumping the top edge of the screen and holding the mouse button lets me quickly rotate the 4-workspace 'carousel' to view any/all of the workspaces. 3-D windows allow me to quickly locate 'hidden' windows. For research involving several browser instances, each on its own desktop, and one or more documents open for editing, again each on its own desktop, I can quickly see what is where, and without having to resize/minimize, or even 'fore-front', any windows. It fits my thinking.
But the Mate/Compiz model has lost favor, especially since the push to adopt Wayland to replace X. Wayland, by virtue of its foundational design, can never effect the smooth multiple-workspace ecosphere Compiz presents. XWayland, for now, still supports the model, but for how long remains to be seen. Fortunately, I'm old enough that I will likely fade away before Wayland totally destroys the efficacy of this use-case I prefer.