LiteStep - Your opinions?

is it less-resource-intensive than Explorer?

from WinCustomize Forums
I've noticed as I change the look of my desktop that I go through different "phases"...I move back and forth between functional and decorative.

A day or so ago, I reached the peak of my "decorative" phase...I used ObjectDock.

To many of you, that probably doesn't sound very fancy, but I had set a rule for myself when theming: no background programs -- don't make the computer slower just to make it look nice.

So, remembering this, I got rid of the Dock.

Now I've seen LiteStep, and it looks really interesting...I have a couple questions, though:

1: Is it true that LiteStep uses less resources than Explorer?
2: The learning curve for Litestep is really steep...and sadly, the LS FAQ is no more. Does anyone have a mirror of it, or know resources for the absolute beginner in LS? I've looked around but to no avail.
3: Does LS have virtual desktop support?
4: Does anyone know of some good LS themes that would still have a WinXP "feel" to them? I've noticed that a lot of LS themes have blocky pixel fonts that hurt my eyes, or a weird mechanical style that I personally don't like.
beginners
1,545 views 3 replies
Reply #1 from WinCustomize Forums Top

1.  Not so much these days of XP...but definitely in the past.  LS has the potential to use less depending on theme choice/features.

2.  Not 'that' bad...Installers makes it easy, along with the current theme format.... it's only when making your own that the curve goes 'up'.  I'm still learning 7-8 years later.

3. Yes

4. There are thousands of themes ... from horrid to pretty darn good...but they are usually designed BY skinners FOR themselves ... if your taste matches one of theirs then you're sweet.  If not, you'll need to start climbing that 'curve' for yourself....

Reply #2 from WinCustomize Forums Top
I gave it a whack a couple years back. I think it all depends on your enthusiasm for customization. I like the stardock apps because I can modify from a little to a lot without having to start learning commands or editing config files.

One of the things I don't like about Desktop X is the fact that it redoes the desktop. It's the biggest plus and biggest minus. If you like it, great, if not - too bad.

LS is similar (as Jafo said), if you like the theme you d/l, great, if not, hello config files and learning curve. I've found that I enjoy spending more time working on the pc instead of working on what it looks like.

Honestly, the folks at Stardock and the tons of skinners do that better than I do.

I don't believe that with today's pc's you will gain much from using another shell (other than your personal preferences).

Good luck!
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Reply #3 from WinCustomize Forums Top

I don't believe that with today's pc's you will gain much from using another shell (other than your personal preferences).

Yes, that's about it.  Alternate shell users do it for the 'fun' of customizing, as do those who adopt shell add-ons and any skinnable apps, etc.

It's not all about physical benefit/speed/improvement.... but about being a bit 'different'...