bbLean Alternatives
bbLean is described as 'is the lean version of Blackbox for Windows. It tries to keep balance between features and complexity, to give you some efficient means within a compact shell' and is an app in the os & utilities category. There are more than 10 alternatives to bbLean for Windows and Android. The best alternative is Cairo Shell, which is both free and Open Source. Other great apps like bbLean are BB4Win, SharpEnviro, WindowBlinds and Emerge Desktop.
bbLean is mainly a Desktop Environment but alternatives to it may also be System Tweakers. Filter by these if you want a narrower list of alternatives or looking for a specific functionality of bbLean.- Cairo is a desktop environment for Windows. Its goal is to develop a desktop experience that increases productivity and advances current technology standards.
- BB4Win (Blackbox for Windows) is an alternative shell for Microsoft Windows. The program aims to emulate the look and feel of a Linux based desktop. The BB4Win project was discontinued in 2005 but various branches have been built from the source.
Discontinued
Latest release 2009, see http://bb4win.sourceforge.net/
- SharpEnviro (or SharpE) is an open source shell replacement system for Microsoft Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7. When using SharpEnviro the default Windows desktop is replaced by a new and more powerful desktop environment.
Discontinued
As of december 2011 the SharpEnviro project is no longer under active development. All files provided come without any warranty or support! It is uncertain if or how well the previously released versions of SharpEnviro will work with any new or updated Windows system after Windows 7 Service Pack 1.
- WindowBlinds is a computer program that allows users to skin the Windows graphical user interface. It has been developed by Stardock since 1998, and is the most popular component of their flagship software suite, Object Desktop.
- Emerge Desktop is a replacement Windows "shell" (the desktop environment normally provided by Windows Explorer) for Windows 2000 and above.
Discontinued
Emerge Desktop is no longer maintained. Last version, 6.1.3, released in 2012, and the source code are still available on SourceForge
- GeoShell - The premier minimalist Windows shell replacement. It replaces the default Explorer interface. It features menu bars—“geoBars”—that can be dragged-and-dropped anywhere on the users screen.
Discontinued
The official website is no longer available. Last version, 4.11.10, can be still downloaded from SourceForge.
- Talisman Desktop is a configurable Windows shell replacement introduced in 1997 by Lighttek Software. It is available in a number of languages including English, French, Spanish, Swedish, Portuguese, Russian and Italian.
- The SphereXP is a 3D desktop replacement for Microsoft Windows. Taking the known concept of three-dimensional desktops to its own level. It offers a new way to organize objects on the desktop such as icons and applications. It has been tried out by millions worldwide.
Discontinued
Official website not accessible. Available here: http://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/spherexp.html
- tiny windows shell (explorer.exe) replacement designed for slow PCs.
Discontinued
It's discontinued. Last update was 25th June 2008.
- SmartWindows streamlines the way you work. It is perfect for professionals looking to optimize the overall work experience or switch between projects. You can save display preferences for applications with the help of a few clicks.