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GKrellM

gkrellm.net

Free plan WindowsmacOSLinux
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Spec score 7.4 #20 of 29 in Desktop Widget Software

What it is

GKrellM is a free system-monitoring program that stacks multiple readings in one interface and supports themes matching a window manager, GTK or another theme. Its built-in monitors cover CPU, processes, disks, network interfaces, memory, swap, filesystems, uptime and internet connections. When supported by the system’s hardware and software, temperature, fan and voltage monitors can show configurable warnings and alarms. A mailbox monitor checks mbox, maildir, MH, POP3 and IMAP mailboxes, and can launch a mail reader or mail-checking program. GKrellM can also run as a client and collect data from a gkrellmd server on a remote machine. Both the program and server support plugins for specialized monitors. Builds or compilation options are listed for Linux, FreeBSD, Mac OS X, NetBSD, OpenBSD and Windows. GKrellM requires GTK, GDK and GLib; the server requires GLib and can be installed without GTK or X libraries. It is released under the GNU General Public License at no cost.

Spec sheet

Purpose
GKrellM is a single process stack of system monitors that supports themes matching a window manager, GTK, or another theme.Read 8 Oct 2026 · billw2.github.io
Support
The page invites users to email Bill Wilson with questions or suggestions.Read 8 Oct 2026 · billw2.github.io
Mail
The mailbox monitor checks mbox, maildir, MH, POP3, and IMAP mailboxes and can launch a mail reader or mail checking program.Read 8 Oct 2026 · billw2.github.io
Platform support
The page lists Linux, FreeBSD, Mac OS X, NetBSD, OpenBSD, and Windows builds or compilation options.Read 8 Oct 2026 · billw2.github.io
Plugins
Both GKrellM and the gkrellmd server support plugins for adding specialized monitors.Read 8 Oct 2026 · billw2.github.io
Remote monitoring
GKrellM can run in client mode and collect data from a gkrellmd server on a remote machine.Read 8 Oct 2026 · billw2.github.io
Requirements
GKrellM requires GTK, GDK, and GLib; the gkrellmd server requires GLib and can be installed without GTK or X libraries.Read 8 Oct 2026 · billw2.github.io
Sensors
Temperature, fan, and voltage monitors can show configurable warnings and alarms when supported by the system hardware and software.Read 8 Oct 2026 · billw2.github.io
System monitoring
Built-in monitors include CPU, processes, disks, network interfaces, memory, swap, filesystems, uptime, and internet connections.Read 8 Oct 2026 · billw2.github.io

Plans and prices

GKrellM Free Released under the GNU General Public License Read 8 Oct 2026 · billw2.github.io

Every GKrellM plan and price →

Strong points and limits

Strong points

  • Monitors CPU, memory, disks, networks and filesystems.
  • Mailbox monitor supports five mailbox formats.
  • Remote client mode collects data from a gkrellmd server.
  • Plugins can add specialized monitors.
  • Free under the GNU General Public License.

Limits

  • Requires GTK, GDK and GLib.
  • Temperature, fan and voltage readings require system support.
  • Listed builds and compilation options vary by platform.

Who it suits

GKrellM suits people who want system readings and mailbox status in a themed desktop monitor, including those who need remote monitoring or specialized plugins. Its hardware readings depend on system support.

Verdict

GKrellM covers a broad range of local readings and can collect remote data through gkrellmd. Consider its GTK-related requirements and hardware-dependent sensors before choosing it.

Where Specifiction places it

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