VirtuaWin is a virtual desktop manager for Windows operating systems that allows users to organize their workspace efficiently.
Best Microsoft Desktops Alternatives ranked by AI · updated Aug 2026
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Microsoft Desktops is a Sysinternals utility that provides multiple Windows desktops with keyboard shortcuts and separate application spaces. It is intended for users who want a small, official Microsoft tool rather than a heavily customizable desktop enhancer.
Top 6 Microsoft Desktops alternatives
DisplayFusion is a feature-rich utility for multi-monitor systems that helps you manage your desktop and create an efficient workflow.
zVirtualDesktop is an open-source Windows utility for controlling virtual desktops through hotkeys, window rules, and command-line operations. It is aimed at technical...
Pros
- Offers more automation and command-line control than Virtual Desktop Enhancer
- Can move or assign application windows to specific desktops
- Open-source with a low resource footprint
Cons
- Less friendly for users who prefer a graphical configuration tool
- Narrower visual customization than SylphyHornPlus
- Requires more technical setup for advanced rules
Virtual Desktop Enhancer is an open-source Windows utility that adds keyboard shortcuts, desktop indicators, wallpapers, and other controls to Windows virtual desktops....
Pros
- Adds desktop numbering and switching feedback missing from basic Windows virtual desktops
- Supports custom hotkeys and desktop-specific wallpapers
- Lightweight AutoHotkey-based utility with no subscription
Cons
- Less polished and actively maintained than newer desktop managers
- Primarily designed for Windows 10 and may require workarounds on newer Windows releases
- Requires manual installation and configuration compared with commercial tools
5
Actual Virtual Desktops
Actual Tools
Actual Virtual Desktops is a commercial Windows utility for creating and managing multiple virtual workspaces. It adds desktop-specific shortcuts, window rules, wallpaper...
Pros
- More window rules and customization than UltWin
- Supports desktop-specific wallpapers and layouts
- Provides dedicated controls for application placement
Cons
- Costs more than free alternatives
- Less widely used than Windows Virtual Desktops
- Focused primarily on Windows rather than cross-platform workflows
From $19.95
6
SylphyHornPlus
ViRb3
SylphyHornPlus is an open-source Windows virtual desktop utility that adds hotkeys, desktop notifications, taskbar indicators, and per-desktop customization. It is designed for...
Pros
- Better maintained and more Windows 11-focused than Virtual Desktop Enhancer
- Provides clear desktop-switch notifications and taskbar indicators
- Supports per-desktop wallpapers and configurable keyboard shortcuts
Cons
- Fewer advanced window-placement features than commercial managers
- Requires separate configuration for some customization options
- Windows-only
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