Choosing the right desktop environment is crucial for new users of Linux, as it can significantly enhance their experience. Linux is known for its flexibility, allowing users to customize the operating system to suit their needs—right from the kernel to the desktop environment. However, not all desktop environments are user-friendly, especially for beginners.
Top 5 Desktop Environments for New Linux Users
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KDE Plasma
- KDE Plasma features a familiar layout for traditional desktop users, equipped with a menu, panel, notifications, and icons, making it accessible for newcomers. It offers a modern aesthetic while also being powerful enough for advanced users. It’s configurable and adapts as users become more experienced with Linux. KDE Plasma ships with numerous distributions like Kubuntu and Fedora KDE Spin.
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Cinnamon
- Cinnamon is reminiscent of traditional desktop layouts, making it ideal for users coming from Windows. It is lightweight and suitable for older hardware without compromising on usability, featuring elements like a menu and system tray. While it lacks some of the customization options of KDE Plasma, it remains straightforward and effective, commonly found in Linux Mint and Fedora Cinnamon.
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MATE
- MATE, a continuation of the GNOME 2 interface, combines simplicity with lightweight performance. Users will appreciate the classic feel with options to customize. Although it appears somewhat dated, MATE is suitable for users of all skills, providing a fast and efficient environment. It’s used by distributions like Ubuntu MATE and Debian.
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Pantheon
- For those who prefer a macOS-like experience, Pantheon is a clean and efficient desktop environment. It features a dock and a top bar, offering a minimalistic feel while maintaining essential functionality. Although not very customizable, it’s designed to be user-friendly. Pantheon is the default environment of elementaryOS but can also be installed on other distributions.
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Budgie
- Budgie strikes a balance between beauty and functionality, with a clean aesthetic similar to Windows. It is customizable and adapts as users become more familiar with Linux, featuring a helpful Welcome Wizard for newcomers. Default in Ubuntu Budgie, it can also be installed on other systems, making it versatile.
Choosing the right desktop environment can lead to a satisfying and productive Linux journey, helping new users feel comfortable and engaged from the start.
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