Arch Linux

amlug

Member

Registered: 2026-03-09

Posts: 6

Fvwm OverView

Both macOS (via Mission Control) and GNOME (via Activities Overview) provide a bird's-eye view of open windows, making it easy to manage windows on a crowded desktop. Many users like this feature. FVWM has a user-made configuration that does the same, but better, because it doesn't create a separate screen.

I tested Taviso's WindowList function – FvwmExpose – and liked the idea, but it needs an upgrade. Fvwm myEXT created a new version, but the key binding is messing up some of the overview's screenshots.

It was suggested that a short delay be added so X11 handles the window capture properly: sleep 0.2 && xwd. Further improve the key binding; I tested it with FvwmCommand. Now it works well.

Check screenshot:
https://freeimage.host/i/CL7hs8Q

aminepro

Member

Registered: 2025-01-31

Posts: 121

Re: Fvwm OverView

seems like an interesting window manager that fvwm, I'll check it out first

topcat01

Member

Registered: 2019-09-17

Posts: 324

Re: Fvwm OverView

Can you also link/post your config for this? I am a long time user/lover of fvwm. I use the pager for this, but the overview is nice.

seth

Member

From: Won't reply 2 private help req

Registered: 2012-09-03

Posts: 77,457

Re: Fvwm OverView

While technically not fvwm, you're aware of https://aur.archlinux.org/packages/skippy-xd-git ?

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amlug

Member

Registered: 2026-03-09

Posts: 6

Re: Fvwm OverView

Thanks @seth, looks interesting. Seems similar to Mac overview. Good to know.

I have uploaded Fvwm OverView to openDesktop.org in the Fvwm Themes category.

Download and extract to $[HOME]/.fvwm. Add the line to your config and restart.
Read $[HOME]/.fvwm/FvwmOverView/Oview.sys

Screenshot and download:
https://www.opendesktop.org/p/2369073

Last edited by amlug (2026-08-19 21:16:19)

Mjaakko

Member

Registered: 2023-06-19

Posts: 17

Re: Fvwm OverView

It works much better. Before, the screenshots were unclear, and the selected shot was not correct.

I tried Mac and Gnome, and now also I tested the skippy-xd. I don't like having a separate screen, distracting the workflow. Fvwm Overview does what it says without spreading the windows. On Fvwm, skippy-xd includes all push buttons and pagers in the overview.

Great having a simple and workable overview. In general, overview is the best tool for window management. I appreciate that skippy-xd is designed for all DEs and WMs.