// troubleshooting guide · espanso

Espanso App-Specific Config Not Working

Status
Ongoing
platforms:
All, limited on Wayland
updated:
November 15, 2026
reports:
2
Method
how we research
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RUNBOOK · espanso/app-specific-config-not-working3 FIXES

// quick answer

Filters are case-sensitive regexes and only one config applies. Use #detect# to get the right values, and note Wayland does not support them.

Most likely fix: Detect real values

How to fix it

// try these in order, the most common fix is first

  1. FIX 1Detect real values

    1. 01Open the app and type `#detect#` (needs v2.1.1+)
    2. 02Copy exec or class into filter_exec or filter_class
    Did this fix it?
  2. FIX 2Fix priority

    1. 01Rename files so the intended one sorts first
    2. 02Avoid filter_title for changing titles
    Did this fix it?
  3. FIX 3Wayland

    1. 01On KDE install kdotool for partial support
    2. 02Otherwise use global options
    Did this fix it?

Symptoms

Per-app config ignored or the wrong config applies.

Why it happens

  • C-01Wrong filter value
  • C-02Case mismatch
  • C-03Multiple configs matching, first alphabetical wins
  • C-04Wayland has no support

// this guide also covers

  • espanso app specific config
  • espanso filter_exec
  • espanso detect

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