When comparing xstarter vs Avant Window Navigator, the Slant community recommends xstarter for most people. In the question“What are the best app launchers for UNIX-like systems?” xstarter is ranked 23rd while Avant Window Navigator is ranked 27th. The most important reason people chose xstarter is:
All configuration is done within one text file.
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Pros
Pro Configuration is easy
All configuration is done within one text file.
Pro Tons of plugins
AWN comes with a big selections of applets such as a CPU monitor or clock or trash bin. This means one can easily turn the docks functionality into that of a taskbar. There is even an app launcher applet that will group all of ones apps in one place just like a start menu.
Pro Easily customized
There is a wide array of setting available to theming and customizing the dock.
Cons
Con Project is dead
Has not been update since 2013 and has been already pulled from many repos. While it still can be installed and works as it did in 2013, no more fixes or features are expected.