How mouse-less can you make Linux? (lemmy.blahaj.zone)

submitted 3 weeks ago by HEXN3T@lemmy.blahaj.zone to c/linux@programming.dev

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macOS is my favourite operating system. Finder in column view with arrow keys to navigate, combined with space for file preview, is incredibly fast and intuitive. Trackpad integration also results in less hand movement. I'm building a Linux (Bazzite) desktop, though, and I've set my sights on the stars.

nnn looks to be an incredible file manager, and was a great recommendation. It looks even more capable than Finder, albeit without scrolling/zooming previews, thanks to macOS having unmatched trackpad functionality. Not to mention Spotlight, which makes opening apps trivial--especially with Alfred available as well. I want to go beyond mere file management, though.

File managenent, browsing, gaming, everything. Just how much can you configure a Linux system to eliminate mouse usage? Shortcut guides welcome (I already know the major ones). I also have a keen interest in tiling window managers, but I've not delved that deep yet. I don't know how to set one up.

Guess I'm forced to learn Emacs/Vim/similar.

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[-] communism@lemmy.ml 17 points 3 weeks ago

It's really easy to go mouseless on Linux/Unix. Just use as many TUI programs as possible since none of them will be mouse-oriented.

Also check out this list: https://github.com/erikw/vim-keybindings-everywhere-the-ultimate-list

A lot of people (myself included) like vim keybindings and want them in other programs, and of course using vim keybindings is inherently mouseless.

Off the top of my head, some software I use:

river as my wayland compositor
lf for a file browser
imv for an image viewer
Librewolf with Vimium-C to browse the web
mpd + ncmpcpp for listening to music (you can also use cmus if you don't want to use mpd)

I don't use them, but you can also use something like Mutt, Neomutt, or Aerc for an email client, and use CLI bittorrent clients and password managers.

[-] HEXN3T@lemmy.blahaj.zone 3 points 3 weeks ago* (last edited 3 weeks ago)

LibreWolf with Vimium-C? Could I do this with Mullvad?

EDIT: Upon second thought, I feel like this might be very easily identifiable, and break the entire purpose of Mullvad

[-] communism@lemmy.ml 3 points 3 weeks ago

Yes, exactly, installing additional add-ons for Mullvad browser (except noscript) defeats the purpose. I also find it annoying whenever I have to use Tor Browser or Mullvad Browser because I have to use the mouse.

I use Librewolf for my "normal"/fingerprintable/non-anonymous browsing, but I still try to reduce fingerprintability (don't have too many add-ons installed, RFP is on ofc, I have letterboxing etc).

To be fair, if you want to reduce fingerprintability but still browse the web with just your keyboard, the TUI web browsers could work. Obviously they're pretty uncommon, but I imagine you'd look like any other user of lynx/w3m/etc. So you'd be quite unique but I'm not sure if you'd be distinguishable from other users of the same browser.

this post was submitted on 06 Dec 2024

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