Doca
Comparison · checked Nov 8, 2026
Doca vs Winstep Nexus
Nexus is the classic Windows dock: mature, packed with options and with a free version. Doca is newer and leaner, and bets on environments (one dock for each moment) and modern widgets inside the dock.
Quick answer
Pick Winstep Nexus if you want a free dock, or you like tweaking every detail (skins, sub-docks, shelves) and don't mind an older-looking interface. Pick Doca if you want to split work, study and leisure into different docks, with live widgets and a Windows 11 look, without spending time configuring.
Side by side
| Doca | Winstep Nexus | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | dock with environments and widgets | Mac-style dock |
| Price | US$ 9 one-time (7-day free trial, no card) | Free for personal use; Nexus Ultimate from US$ 29.95 |
| Windows 11 | Yes | Yes |
| Windows 10 | Yes (2004 or newer) | Yes |
| Latest version | 1.0.26 (Nov 3, 2026) | 26.9 (Sep 21, 2026) |
| Magnification (Mac-style) | Yes | Yes |
| Widgets on the bar | Yes, 40+ | Modules (clock, weather, CPU…) |
| Multiple docks or profiles | Yes (environments) | Multiple docks in Ultimate only |
| Replaces the taskbar | Optional | Shows running apps and the tray |
| On the side of the screen | Yes (left or right) | Yes |
| Multiple monitors | Yes, one dock per monitor | Yes |
| In Portuguese | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | No | No |
Where Winstep Nexus is better
- It has a genuinely free version for personal use, with running apps, the tray and multiple monitors.
- It's a veteran and still active: version 26.9 came out in September 2026.
- The Ultimate edition goes far on customization: multiple docks, sub-docks, Shelves and Drawers.
Winstep Nexus's limitations
- Multiple docks and sub-docks are Ultimate-only, from US$ 29.95.
- Its own site warns that tray icon customization doesn't work on recent Windows 11 builds.
- The free version is for personal use only.
Where Doca is better
- Environments: one dock for each moment, with its own apps, widgets, color and windows.
- 40+ live widgets inside the dock, and you can build your own with a script.
- The Mac magnifier, with adjustable strength and width.
- It can replace the taskbar and restores everything on exit, even after a crash.
- Made by one developer who answers support email himself.
Doca's limitations
- It's paid: US$ 9 once, after 7 free days.
- It isn't open source.
- It groups windows by app, like the Mac (no named button per window).
- It isn't a tiling window manager.
- Requires Windows 10 2004 or newer.
Looking for other options? See Winstep Nexus alternatives and Best docks for Windows in 2026.
Sources
- www.winstep.net/: Nexus grátis para Windows 7, 8, 10 e 11; notícia da v26.9 em 21/09/2026
- www.winstep.net/nexus.asp: versão 26.9; tabela grátis x Ultimate (a partir de US$ 29,95); módulos; vários docks só na Ultimate; vários monitores; português do Brasil; aviso sobre a bandeja no Windows 11
- doca.racoelho.com.br/pt/: Doca: preço, teste de 7 dias, Windows 10 2004+ e 11, x64 e ARM64, ambientes, lente, mais de 40 widgets, substituir a barra
- doca.racoelho.com.br/pt/novidades: Doca: versão 1.0.26 de 03/11/2026; um dock em cada monitor; posição por monitor
We make Doca. The other apps' facts were checked against the sources below on Nov 8, 2026; spotted something outdated? Email contato@racoelho.com.br.
Frequently asked questions
Is Winstep Nexus free?
Free for personal use; Nexus Ultimate from US$ 29.95.
Does Winstep Nexus work on Windows 11?
Yes. The latest version we found is 26.9, from Sep 21, 2026.
Can I use Doca together with Winstep Nexus?
You can, but two docks on screen make little sense. Try Doca for 7 days and keep whichever fits your day better.
How much is Doca?
7 days free with everything unlocked. After that, US$ 9 once, no subscription.