Compare software

Qtile vs niri: catalog facts
Qtile	niri
Best for: Configure a tiling window manager using Python	Best for: Linux users who want keyboard-driven tiling without windows being squeezed
Free Free and open source. Hosting, hardware and any external services are separate.	Free Free and open source.
Linux	Linux
Supports programmable layouts and widgets Offers X11 and Wayland back ends	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
Configuration and troubleshooting require some Python knowledge.	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
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Open source	Open source
License: MIT	License not stated
Not stated if an account is needed	No account needed
Not stated if it works offline	Offline features available
Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Qtile qtile.org github.com/qtile/qtile Catalog checked September 22, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for niri github.com/niri-wm/niri Catalog checked September 23, 2026

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