Configuring Xmonad and Polybar (It's Not THAT Difficult!)

2 min read 6 months ago
Published on Apr 21, 2024 This response is partially generated with the help of AI. It may contain inaccuracies.

Table of Contents

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Configuring Xmonad and Polybar

1. Choose between Xmobar and Polybar

  • Decide whether you want to use Xmobar or Polybar as your panel in Xmonad.

2. Set up Xmobar Configuration

  • If you choose Xmobar, copy the xmonad.hs configuration file from the xmonad example configs directory to your ~/.config/xmonad directory.
  • Rename the copied file to xmonad.hs.
  • Recompile Xmonad by running xmonad --recompile.
  • Restart Xmonad by pressing Super+Shift+R.

3. Set up Polybar Configuration

  • If you prefer Polybar, copy the xmonad with polybar.hs configuration file from the xmonad example configs directory to your ~/.config/xmonad directory.
  • Rename the copied file to xmonad.hs.
  • Recompile Xmonad by running xmonad --recompile.
  • Install Polybar by running sudo pacman -S dtos-polybar.
  • Restart Xmonad by pressing Super+Shift+R.

4. Customize Polybar Appearance

  • Edit the Polybar configuration file located in ~/.config/polybar/config to customize the appearance of Polybar.
  • Modify the colors, fonts, modules (left, center, right), and other settings to suit your preferences.

5. Manage Color Schemes

  • Use the script dtos-color-scheme to change color schemes for Polybar and other applications like Xmobar, Alacritty, and Emacs.
  • Run the script with your desired color scheme name to update the colors.

6. Additional Tips and Resources

  • Explore the various modules available for Polybar to enhance its functionality.
  • Check out the DistroTube Patreon page to support the creator and access exclusive content.
  • Consider joining the DistroTube community for further discussions and updates on Xmonad and Polybar configurations.

By following these steps, you can easily configure Xmonad with either Xmobar or Polybar according to your preferences. Enjoy customizing your desktop environment with these versatile panel options!