Compiz!

Compiz is an OpenGL compositing manager that use GLX_EXT_texture_from_pixmap for binding redirected top-level windows to texture objects. It has a flexible plug-in system and it is designed to run well on most graphics hardware. Okay, this description isn't really meaningful. In a nutshell, Compiz is a compositing manager, which means that it enhances the overall user interaction by adding fancy effects to your windows, from drop shadows to awesome desktop effects like the Desktop Cube http://wiki.compiz.org/Plugins/Cube
or the Expo http://wiki.compiz.org/Plugins/Expo
view. Compiz can also be a window manager, which means that it is the software between you and your desktop apps. It enables you to move or resize windows, to switch workspaces, to switch windows easily (using alt

Compiz alternatives

  • Nimi Visuals

  • Adds eye-candy effects to windows (and start menu) like deformations (e.g: jelly windows - that makes moved window wiggle like being made from jelly; or fold - which hides windows by folding up horizontally, and unfolds when showing), physics (e.g.: keep momentum - making window to conserve move momentum; or bounce - that makes windows bounce upon receving focus ) and other SFX (e.g.: pixie dust - which makes moved window to leave a trail of twinkling pixie dust; or close puff - which displays puff cloud below cursor when closing window). »

    tags: Portable customization desktop-enhancement
  • KWin

  • KWin is a window manager for the X Window System, and is in the process of becoming a Wayland compositor. It is an integral part, and the default window manager of the Plasma Workspaces, but it can also be used on its own or with other desktop environments.

    tags: window-manager desktop-enhancement desktop-manager window-resizer compositing
  • CubeDesktop NXT

  • CubeDesktop NXT provides you up to 16 workspaces, each with its own wallpaper and set of icons, allowing you to quickly and easily switch between them using a live and interactive 3D environment.

    tags: window-manager virtual-desktop desktop-customization desktop-manager multiple-desktops
  • x:choyce

  • A light-weight, Exposé-like window switcher for X (feat. OpenGL).

    tags: desktop-enhancement window-organizer switcher task-switcher
  • Shock 4Way 3D

  • General purpose of this program is to use 4 simulating screens simultaneously. To switch into each screen, select one of 4 screens or use shortcut key.

    tags: multiple-desktops virtual-desktop-manager
  • Raskin

  • Inspired by Jef Raskin, our zoomable user interface shows you all the stuff on your computer on a single surface. Using zoom and pan to view, arrange and open documents feels so right. In minutes you’ll appreciate the simplicity and intelligence of our answer to the traditional desktop. Take a spin and see for yourself.30-day trial available, $24.99 to buy.

    tags: document-management file-browser finder photo-browser expose
  • 360desktop

  • 360desktop is free software that extends Windows as a 360 degree workspace, plus an online environment for creating interative 360 degree wallpaper, with a gallery and a widget platform, for sharing your favorite 360's with everybody.

    tags: Discontinued desktop-enhancement desktop-customization desktop-tool scrolling
  • Winflip

  • WinFlip emulates Windows Vistas "Flip 3D" effect for Windows XP. Using the hotkey of your choice, you can find the window youre looking for in a fast, clean 3D interface.

    tags: customization windows-theme vista-style xp-theme
  • Real Desktop

  • Real Desktop: The desktop embellishment for your PC! Real Desktop is a 3D animated multi desktop manager and the perfect tool to replace your wallpaper.

    tags: virtual-desktop desktop-manager 3d-desktop animated-desktop