Top AutoWall Alternatives for Dynamic Desktops
AutoWall is a popular application that allows users to set video or GIF files as their Windows wallpaper, offering features like easy file browsing and a reset option. However, users often seek AutoWall alternatives for various reasons, including broader platform support, more advanced customization options, or open-source solutions. If you're looking to elevate your desktop experience beyond AutoWall's capabilities, this guide explores some of the best replacements available.
Top AutoWall Alternatives
Whether you're looking for a free solution, cross-platform compatibility, or advanced features like music visualization and Steam Workshop integration, there's an AutoWall alternative perfect for your needs. Let's dive into the top contenders.
Wallpaper Engine
Wallpaper Engine is a highly regarded commercial AutoWall alternative available for Windows and Steam users. It stands out by enabling live wallpapers with extensive support for 3D and 2D animations, websites, and videos. Key features include Live Wallpapers, Configurable settings, and the ability to Visualize Music, making it a powerful choice for dynamic desktops.
Variety Wallpaper Changer
For Linux users seeking a free and open-source AutoWall alternative, Variety Wallpaper Changer is an excellent option. While primarily a wallpaper changer rather than a video wallpaper tool, it's highly featureful and easy to use, automatically downloading wallpapers from various online sources. It even boasts Facebook integration for sharing your desktop aesthetic.
ScreenPlay
ScreenPlay offers a robust, free, and open-source cross-platform solution (Mac, Windows, Linux) for displaying wallpapers, widgets, and an AppDrawer. As an AutoWall alternative, it excels with features like Steam Workshop integration, Music Visualization, Widgets, and Live Wallpapers, written in modern C++17/Qt5/QML for high performance and flexibility.
Lively - Animated Wallpaper System
Lively is another fantastic Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) AutoWall alternative specifically designed for Windows. It focuses on playing animated desktop wallpapers and includes unique features such as Application triggered Rules and Audio output, providing a flexible and free way to bring your desktop to life.
RainWallpaper
RainWallpaper is a powerful commercial live wallpaper engine for Windows, making it a direct competitor and strong AutoWall alternative. It allows users to employ various customizable animated wallpapers on their desktop. Its primary feature is its Configurable nature, allowing for deep personalization of your live wallpapers.
GoodPaper Wallpapers
GoodPaper Wallpapers is a free Windows application focused on delivering high-quality static wallpapers. While it doesn't offer animated wallpapers like AutoWall, it's an excellent AutoWall alternative if your primary need is a constant supply of stunning, curated images from various themes, characters, artists, and games.
Splashify
Splashify is a commercial AutoWall alternative available for both Mac and Windows. It simplifies setting beautiful static desktop backgrounds, allowing users to choose from thousands of high-quality photos by professional photographers and set them as their wallpaper with a single click. It's ideal for those who prefer stunning static imagery over animated backgrounds.
WinTweaker
WinTweaker is a commercial Windows utility that customizes various system parameters, including the Desktop, Start, Taskbar, and Notification area. While not a direct live wallpaper application like AutoWall, it serves as an AutoWall alternative for users looking to comprehensively tweak their desktop environment and personalize their Windows experience beyond just wallpapers.
Video Paper
Video Paper is a straightforward, free AutoWall alternative for Windows that allows users to set a video as their wallpaper. Its main advantage lies in its simplicity and portability, making it a quick and easy solution for those who want video wallpapers without complex features.
The world of desktop customization is vast and varied. From commercial powerhouses like Wallpaper Engine to free and open-source gems like Lively, there's a perfect AutoWall alternative for every user. Consider your operating system, budget, and desired features to find the best fit for your dynamic desktop needs.