List of alternative shells for Windows
This list of alternative shells for Windows includes graphical user interface shells that can replace the Windows Shell or Program Manager in Microsoft Windows. An alternative shell may afford the user a desktop environment with different functionality, a different workflow, or customization options.
| Shell | Proprietary/Open source/Closed source | OS |
|---|---|---|
| Cairo Shell | Closed source | XP, Vista, 7 |
| Calmira | Open source | 3.1 |
| Classic Shell | Closed source | Vista, 7, 8 |
| Emerge Desktop | Open source | 2000, XP, Vista, 7 |
| GreenGnome* | Open source | XP |
| LDE(X) | Open source | 2000, XP |
| LiteStep | Open source | 95+ |
| BB4Win | Open source | 95+ |
| bbLean | Open source | 95+ |
| SharpEnviro* | Open source | XP, Vista, 7 |
| KDE Windows | Open source | XP, Vista, 7 |
| BumpTop* | Proprietary | XP, Vista, 7 |
| Packard Bell Navigator | Proprietary | 3.1, 95 |
| Talisman Desktop | Proprietary | 95+ |
| Aston Shell | Proprietary | 95+ |
| TabWorks* | Proprietary | 3.x |
(*Discontinued)
See also
- Microsoft Bob
- Desktop environment
- Comparison of X Window System desktop environments
- History of the graphical user interface
- List of Start Menu replacements for Windows 8
External links
- Liming, Sean (August 2003). "Windows XP Embedded – Different Shells for Different Users". Microsoft Developer Network. Microsoft. Retrieved 15 November 2011.