Using Emacs as Your Linux Desktop Environment with EXWM

Key Notes

• Exwm integrates seamlessly with Emacs, enhancing workflow efficiency.
• Installation is straightforward with a single configuration file.
• Custom keyboard shortcuts can optimize your window management experience.

Transform Your Emacs into a Tiling Window Manager Using Exwm

Exwm revolutionizes the way Emacs functions by transforming it into a comprehensive graphical environment. This guide delves into the numerous benefits of Exwm, facilitates your installation process on Ubuntu 24.10, and explores its impressive features.

Why Choose Exwm as Your Window Manager

Exwm provides a unique advantage by incorporating various applications directly into the Emacs workflow, allowing users to utilize their familiar Emacs buffer setup across diverse applications. This can significantly enhance productivity levels.

In addition, Exwm consolidates your desktop configuration by allowing both the window manager and Emacs to be configured through a single `.emacs` file, appealing to users who favor simplicity.

Furthermore, Exwm is designed for speed and efficiency. Users have reported that Exwm can be started in seconds and utilizes minimal resources, such as 500 MB of RAM during extensive usage sessions.

Installing Exwm in Your Emacs Setup

To get started with Exwm, ensure that Emacs and its dependencies are installed on your system. You can install these through your terminal using:

Launch Emacs, hit Alt + X, and input “ package-install ” to open the installation prompt.

Type “exwm” into the prompt and hit Enter to proceed with the installation of Exwm within Emacs.

To access your configuration file, press Ctrl + X, followed by Ctrl + F, type “ ~/.emacs “, and then press Enter.

Add the relevant configuration code (a basic version to get started) to your `.emacs` file, and save it using Ctrl + X, Ctrl + S.

Next, modify your local user’s `.xsession` file by adding the necessary code snippets.

Finally, create a new desktop entry by inserting the proper content into the `.desktop` file.

After saving your desktop configuration file, reboot your computer to apply the changes.

Getting Started with Exwm

With the installation complete, click the Gear icon on your login screen and select Exwm as your session environment.

Log in and watch Emacs and Exwm swiftly initialize your desktop. To create a new window, press Ctrl + X and then 3 for a vertical split on the right.

For a horizontal split, press Ctrl + X and then 2.

Switch between workspaces using Win in conjunction with any number on your keyboard.

Launching and Managing Applications in Exwm

Unlike traditional window managers, Exwm does not utilize a dedicated app launcher. Instead, utilitarian commands are executed from the Emacs command buffer, operating in a Linux shell.

To launch an application, press Shift + Win + 7, then type in the application’s name, such as “firefox”.

To close a window, press Ctrl + K. To dismiss the corresponding Emacs frame, follow up with Ctrl + X and then 0.

Customizing Your Exwm Setup

The default configuration of Exwm provides essential functionality, yet personalizing your desktop can enhance your experience. For instance, you can alter your desktop resolution via the terminal using Shift + Win + 7 to open a terminal window, and then typing “gnome-terminal” to summon a terminal session.

Run the xrandr command to find your monitor name and available resolutions.

Input the necessary command to set your desired resolution:

After that, use Alt + X and type “exwm-restart” to reload your Exwm session.

Establishing New Keyboard Shortcuts in Exwm

Exwm is minimally pre-configured with keybindings, focusing on Emacs’ intrinsic shortcuts and customization options.

To configure your own shortcuts, access the `.emacs` file and locate the section for exwm-input-global-keys.

Add your new keybinding line—substituting the placeholder labels with your desired key combination and function for optimal ease of access.

Enabling Passthrough Keys

Exwm also facilitates passthrough keys, enriching their functionality across any X11 window. Adjust these settings in your `.emacs` file before the global keybindings section for enhanced usability.

Summary

Exwm serves as a potent tiling window manager that enriches the Emacs environment, streamlining your workflow while maximizing efficiency through customizable features. Installation is straightforward, and the flexibility Exwm offers fosters a personalized user experience.

Conclusion

Exwm isn’t just a window manager; it transforms Emacs into a robust desktop solution. Take advantage of its features, customize your environment, and elevate your productivity as a Linux user. Dive into the world of Exwm now and unlock the potential of your Emacs setup.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)