spherebox

For something that comes free and built-in into some Operating Systems [read: *nix), there are a couple of 3rd party tools (including Microsoft's own) to enable the replication of the Virtual Desktop concept on Windows. If you're not familiar with virtual desktops, they allow you to split up your applications/programs to several different (virtual) desktops, thus avoiding clutter and compartmentalizing work. The Windows interface was not designed from the ground up for multiple desktops and it will never hold up to X-Windows, with the many wonky behaviors observed if you do decide to try out virtual desktops [Read:just my little 2 cents of caution]. Either than that, it’s a great extension to your workspace if you can’t afford dual display. Today at Spherelabs, we will be taking a look at 3 offerings.

Virtual Dimension

Virtual Dimensions is a great tool for organizing your virtual desktops, with keyboard shortcuts, drag & drop apps between virtual desktops, right-click shell integration ( send app to desktop 0, 1, all desktop), and desktop-specific settings. It does not appear in your taskbar as others but will appear in floating windows on your desktop itself.  

Download from here 

Microsoft Virtual Desktop Manager via PowerToys for Windows XP

Microsoft Virtual Desktop Manager is a Microsoft PowerToys for Windows XP. It gives you 4 different desktops, each with it`s own applications and desktop wallpapers. Like Linux, It integrates into the taskbar and clicking within each sector representing 1 of your 4 desktops, allows you to quickly switch between your virtual desktops. Hot keys are also available for quick switch.

Download from here

DM2

Going beyond just virtual desktop, DM2 adds windowing, desktop and folder management enhancements to Windows through Total Commander the Windows 3rd party Explorer Replacement. Once installed you get (only) 4 virtual desktops, the ability to custom Open/Save dialog folder locations and minimize any window to the system tray. Shell integration also give you a right-click minimizing button to send any window to a floating transparent icon that stays on top your taskbar. It also allows plugins that can be downloaded from the DM2 official site.

Download from here

So take your pick and we’d love to hear those comments.