wmctrl as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Power Automate Desktop
Updated
Our verdict
wmctrl is not a good replacement for Microsoft Power Automate Desktop for most users. It serves a completely different purpose: wmctrl manipulates window properties like position, focus, and state on X11 systems, but cannot automate GUI interactions such as typing, clicking, or recording workflows. While it can help manage desktop layout in scripts, it lacks logic, loops, and input simulation. It might be useful to advanced Linux users who need fine control over window placement in automation workflows, but it won’t replicate Power Automate Desktop’s core functionality. Tools like AutoKey, xmacro, or SikuliX are closer fits.
- License
- GPL-2.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 1.07
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both can be used to automate desktop tasks on their respective systems
- Support scripting for unattended execution
- Can manipulate window focus and visibility
- Used in task automation scenarios involving GUI applications
- Can be triggered by user-defined events or schedules
What is different
- wmctrl cannot record or replay mouse clicks or keystrokes
- No support for conditional logic, loops, or variables
- Lacks a visual workflow editor
- Cannot simulate typing or mouse movements
- Does not integrate with application data or file contents
Opening your Microsoft Power Automate Desktop files
wmctrl does not support Microsoft Power Automate Desktop files. There is no import or conversion feature for .desktopflow or related formats. Power Automate Desktop workflows cannot be directly used with wmctrl, and no known tools exist to translate them. Any migration requires manual recreation of logic using shell scripts and other tools.
Switching from Microsoft Power Automate Desktop to wmctrl, step by step
- Identify which parts of the workflow involve window management
- Use wmctrl to handle window operations like focusing or resizing
- Combine with xdotool or ydotool for simulating input
- Write shell scripts to add logic, loops, and conditions
- Use cron or systemd timers to schedule execution
Key features of wmctrl
- List all open windows with IDs and titles
- Move, resize, and raise/lower windows
- Change window state (maximized, minimized, fullscreen)
- Close windows by ID or name
- Set desktop/workspace for a window
- Activate (focus) a specific window
- Works with any EWMH‑compliant window manager
How to install wmctrl on Linux
sudo apt install wmctrlsudo apt install wmctrlsudo dnf install wmctrlsudo pacman -S wmctrlsudo zypper install wmctrlFrequently asked questions
Can wmctrl replace Power Automate Desktop for automating clicks and typing?
No. wmctrl cannot simulate input. Use xdotool or ydotool alongside it for mouse and keyboard actions.
Is wmctrl available on all Linux distributions?
Yes, it is packaged in major distributions including Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, Arch, and openSUSE.
Can I automate workflows across multiple desktops with wmctrl?
Yes. wmctrl can move windows between workspaces and change the active desktop in EWMH-compliant window managers.