DisplayFusion vs SmartTaskbar

DisplayFusion provides controls and customization for Windows multi-monitor setups. It can add a taskbar to each monitor and configure resolution, colour depth, refresh rate, orientation, profiles, and screen splitting. Window tools support snapping, sizing, and moving windows, with saved profiles for window positions. Triggers respond to events such as window creation, focus, desktop unlock, or system idle, then run preset commands or custom scripts. A phone or tablet can control DisplayFusion remotely for actions such as changing wallpaper or toggling monitors. Wallpaper can come from a user's collection, online sources, or a direct image URL. Corporate deployment options include silent installer settings and custom ADMX templates for Active Directory Group Policy. The download page lists Windows 11, Windows 10 version 1607 or higher, and Windows Server 2016, 2019, and 2022, with x86, x64, and ARM64 support. A free 30-day Pro trial is followed by a free version. Pro Standard costs $34.00 USD once per machine and includes a lifetime license and future versions.

SmartTaskbar is a free Windows utility that changes whether the taskbar is shown or hidden. In Auto Mode, it hides the taskbar when the focused window intersects it. Double-clicking the tray icon switches between Show and Auto-Hide, while the taskbar status stays unchanged when the pointer is over the taskbar. Auto Mode follows Windows Auto-Hide behavior, so closing Start or Search may hide the taskbar before SmartTaskbar brings it back. Some applications with special maximization logic may not make the taskbar appear when the pointer moves to its position; the project suggests WIN+T as a workaround. Release notes say the hook can sometimes fail and advise restarting Explorer and SmartTaskbar or rebooting. Auto Mode may not work on Windows 10 versions released in 2019 or earlier, for which the notes suggest the Win10_1809 installer. The privacy statement says the app collects no user data, uses no telemetry, and stores settings offline locally, though it accesses the Registry to monitor and set taskbar settings. The project lists an MIT license and links to a Microsoft Store version described as less functional and stable.