This list of alternative shells for Windows includes graphical user interface shells that can replace Windows Explorer or Program Manager in Microsoft Windows. An alternative shell may afford the user a desktop environment with different functionality, a different workflow, or customization options.
| Shell | Proprietary/Open source | OS |
|---|---|---|
| bbLean | Open source | — |
| Calmira | Open source | 3.1 |
| Emerge Desktop | Open source | 2000, XP, Vista, 7 |
| GeoShell | Open source | — |
| GreenGnome | Open source | XP |
| KDE (Project KDE on Windows) | Open source | XP, Vista, 7 |
| LDE(X) | Open source | 2000, XP |
| LiteStep | Open source | 95+ |
| SharpE (now SharpEnviro) | Open source | XP, Vista, 7 |
| BumpTop | Proprietary | XP, Vista, 7 |
| Packard Bell Navigator | Proprietary | 3.1, 95 |
| Talisman Desktop | Proprietary | 95+ |
| TabWorks | Proprietary | 3.x |
| Wayfarer | Proprietary | — |