XFCE Super Key Setup - MikeTeok/LinuxMint-XFCE-RosePine GitHub Wiki

Problem

XFCE does not support binding a command to the Super key alone while also using Super+X combos as separate shortcuts. Binding Super alone causes it to consume the keypress entirely, breaking all Super+X combos.

Solution

Use xcape to remap a lone Super tap to Scroll_Lock, then bind the command to Scroll_Lock instead. xcape distinguishes between a Super tap and Super held as a modifier, so Super+X combos work normally.

Steps

1. Install xcape

xcape intercepts the Super key and sends Scroll_Lock only when Super is tapped alone (within 150ms), leaving Super+X combos unaffected.

sudo apt install xcape

2. Remove the Super_L shortcut from xfconf

xfconf-query -c xfce4-keyboard-shortcuts -p '/commands/custom/Super_L' -r

3. Add Scroll_Lock shortcut with your command

xfconf-query -c xfce4-keyboard-shortcuts -p '/commands/custom/Scroll_Lock' -n -t string -s 'your-command'

4. Add xcape to startup

Go to Settings → Session and Startup → Application Autostart → Add:

  • Name: xcape
  • Command: xcape -e 'Super_L=Scroll_Lock'

Notes

  • Editing xfce4-keyboard-shortcuts.xml directly does not work while the session is running. Always use xfconf-query instead.