X Window System vs Wayland

Developers should learn X when working on Linux or Unix-based systems that require GUI applications, remote desktop access, or embedded displays meets developers should learn and use wayland when building or maintaining graphical applications for linux desktops, as it is becoming the standard for modern distributions like gnome and kde plasma. Here's our take.

X Window System

Nice Pick

Developers should learn X when working on Linux or Unix-based systems that require GUI applications, remote desktop access, or embedded displays

Pros

• It is essential for building cross-platform graphical tools, system administration interfaces, or when needing low-level control over display and input in environments where newer alternatives like Wayland are not yet adopted
• Related to: linux, unix

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Wayland

Developers should learn and use Wayland when building or maintaining graphical applications for Linux desktops, as it is becoming the standard for modern distributions like GNOME and KDE Plasma

Pros

• It is particularly valuable for applications requiring smooth animations, touchscreen support, or enhanced security through client isolation
• Related to: linux-desktop, x11

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

Use X Window System if: You want it is essential for building cross-platform graphical tools, system administration interfaces, or when needing low-level control over display and input in environments where newer alternatives like wayland are not yet adopted and can live with specific tradeoffs depend on your use case.

Use Wayland if: You prioritize it is particularly valuable for applications requiring smooth animations, touchscreen support, or enhanced security through client isolation over what X Window System offers.

The Bottom Line

X Window System wins

Developers should learn X when working on Linux or Unix-based systems that require GUI applications, remote desktop access, or embedded displays