Compare software

niri vs Scroll: catalog facts
niri	Scroll
Best for: Linux users who want keyboard-driven tiling without windows being squeezed	Best for: Sway users who want a PaperWM-style scrolling layout
Free Free and open source.	Free Free and open source.
Linux	Linux
Opening windows does not resize existing ones IPC interface for scripting and status bars All 3 strengths for niri Opening windows does not resize existing ones IPC interface for scripting and status bars Active development with a large user base	Scrolling layout that does not squeeze windows Builds on familiar sway configuration
Wayland only, no X11 session Needs separate panels, launchers and other desktop pieces All 3 limitations for niri Wayland only, no X11 session Needs separate panels, launchers and other desktop pieces Scrolling layout takes some getting used to	A full compositor, not an add-on to an existing desktop Smaller project than sway itself
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Open source	Open source
License not stated	License: MIT
No account needed	No account needed
Offline features available	Offline features available
Official website Full listing and sources Sources for niri github.com/niri-wm/niri Catalog checked September 23, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Scroll github.com/dawsers/scroll Catalog checked October 2, 2026

“Not stated” means we have not confirmed it. Features can vary by device and plan.