Alternatives to Cairo-Dock
A customizable application dock and launcher for Linux desktops with applets and multiple docks. The listings below can replace it for an important use case. Each note says what changes if you switch.
The original
Cairo-Dock
A customizable application dock and launcher for Linux desktops with applets and multiple docks.
Replacements
Listings that take over the same core job as Cairo-Dock.
Dash to Dock
Keep GNOME's application dash visible as a configurable dock.
Dash to Dock turns GNOME's application dash into a configurable dock, but it works only with a compatible GNOME Shell version rather than any Linux desktop.
Tint2
Lightweight panel and taskbar for Linux and BSD window managers.
Tint2 is a lightweight panel and taskbar for minimal window manager setups, configured through a plain text file instead of offering applets and multiple docks.
Dash to Panel
Combine GNOME application shortcuts and the system tray in one panel.
Dash to Panel combines GNOME application shortcuts and the system tray in a taskbar-style panel, and requires a compatible GNOME Shell version.
xfce4-panel
Configurable panel for the Xfce desktop with plugins and applets.
xfce4-panel offers a plugin-based traditional panel that is lightweight but tied to the Xfce desktop environment.
nwg-panel
Add desktop panels to Sway and Hyprland using GTK.
nwg-panel adds GTK panels with launchers, workspace controls and status modules, designed for Sway and Hyprland rather than every Linux desktop.
Similar software
Related functionality, not a direct replacement.
uBar
A Dock replacement for macOS that can run as a Windows-style taskbar or a dock.
Waybar
Add a customizable status bar to compatible Wayland desktops.
Polybar
Build a configurable status bar for an X11 desktop.
rofi
A keyboard-driven window switcher, application launcher and dmenu replacement for Linux desktops.
Xfce
Use a modular desktop environment built around traditional panels and windows.
