5 Unity Alternatives for Ubuntu Linux Users
Exploring Alternatives to the Unity Desktop Environment in Ubuntu
In past articles, we discussed Ubuntu's Unity desktop environment, initially praised as a significant advancement for Linux upon its release with Ubuntu 11.04.
While Unity represented a substantial shift in direction, it didn't resonate with all users, creating a need for alternative options.
The Strength of Choice in Linux
A core principle of Linux is user choice, and Ubuntu readily supports this through its extensive software repositories.
These repositories offer a diverse selection of excellent alternatives to the Unity desktop environment.
Switching Between Desktop Environments
Each desktop environment installed on your Ubuntu system becomes available as a selectable option on the login screen, accessible via the settings gear icon.
Users are free to install multiple desktop environments simultaneously, allowing for experimentation and the discovery of the ideal interface.
This flexibility ensures that each user can tailor their Ubuntu experience to perfectly suit their individual preferences and workflow.
GNOME Shell (GNOME 3)
Considering alternatives to Unity, GNOME Shell stands out as a prominent option. Historically, Ubuntu has often included a standard GNOME desktop environment. While Ubuntu still retains the core components of GNOME 3, Unity simply substitutes the GNOME Shell launcher with its own user interface.
GNOME 3 offers a visually appealing experience, however, users dissatisfied with Unity might find GNOME's current iteration underwhelming. It has significantly diverged from the classic GNOME 2 interface.
Key Features of GNOME 3
- GNOME 3 incorporates a full-screen application launcher.
- Its overall feel is remarkably akin to that of Unity.
While some users may find GNOME Shell preferable to Unity, those seeking a more conventional desktop experience should explore other choices.
Installation is straightforward, and can be accomplished through the Ubuntu Software Center. Alternatively, the following command can be utilized:
sudo apt-get install gnome-shell
This command will install the GNOME Shell environment on your Ubuntu system.
KDE
The KDE project experienced some friction with its user community following the launch of KDE 4, however, significant time has been dedicated to refinement and issue resolution. Presently at version 4.7, KDE has historically held the position of the second most widely used Linux desktop environment, serving as the principal alternative to GNOME.
KDE offers its own suite of applications designed as counterparts to those found in GNOME. It remains possible to utilize GNOME applications within the KDE environment, though their visual appearance may differ slightly due to KDE’s reliance on the QT toolkit, contrasting with GNOME’s use of GTK.
Installation
The Kubuntu-Desktop package can be located within the Ubuntu Software Center. Alternatively, installation can be initiated through the following command:
sudo apt-get install kubuntu-desktop
The Kubuntu project also distributes an Ubuntu installation disc pre-configured with KDE, rather than Unity as the default desktop environment.
Kubuntu provides a streamlined experience for users seeking a KDE-based Ubuntu system.
XFCE
Unlike GNOME 3 and Unity, XFCE doesn't aim for a complete desktop overhaul. Instead, it delivers an environment that will be immediately familiar to users accustomed to GNOME 2 and earlier Ubuntu versions.
Originally conceived as a lighter, more streamlined alternative to GNOME, XFCE has become a truly independent desktop environment due to GNOME’s significant changes.
XFCE leverages the same GTK toolkit as GNOME, ensuring seamless integration and compatibility with GNOME applications.
A Creator's Choice
Interestingly, Linus Torvalds, the originator of Linux, currently utilizes XFCE. His transition from GNOME 2 was prompted by changes in GNOME 3, mirroring a previous shift from KDE 4.
You can experience the desktop favored by Linus by installing the Xubuntu-Desktop package via the Ubuntu Software Center.
Alternatively, the following command can be executed in the terminal:
sudo apt-get install xubuntu-desktop
For a fresh installation, consider using the Xubuntu installer disc, which provides Ubuntu pre-configured with the XFCE desktop environment instead of Unity.
LXDE
LXDE represents a desktop environment designed for efficiency, specifically aimed at computers with limited processing power. Its core principle revolves around minimizing resource usage, making it an ideal selection for users who desire a desktop experience that prioritizes simplicity and performance.
Compared to XFCE, the desktop environment found in Xubuntu, LXDE offers a lighter footprint. Previously, XFCE was often regarded as the most resource-friendly option within the Ubuntu ecosystem.
Installation and Overview
For a comprehensive exploration of the LXDE desktop environment and guidance on its installation, refer to our article on Lubuntu. This resource provides detailed instructions for getting started.
Alternatively, the Lubuntu-Desktop package can be directly installed through the Ubuntu Software Center.
Installation can also be achieved via the command line using the following instruction:
sudo apt-get install lubuntu-desktop
Fresh Installation Option
If a clean installation of Ubuntu with LXDE is preferred, downloading a Lubuntu disk image is recommended.
This allows for a streamlined setup, ensuring LXDE is integrated from the initial installation phase.
Xmonad
Xmonad presents a unique experience for Linux users seeking complete control over their desktop environment. It functions not as a traditional desktop, but rather as a set of tools enabling users to construct a personalized workspace.
As a tiling window manager, Xmonad automatically organizes windows, eliminating the need for manual resizing or dragging. This core functionality is the extent of Xmonad’s built-in features.
Minimalist Approach
Unlike many desktop environments, Xmonad does not include default components like an application launcher or panel. These elements can be integrated by the user, offering a highly customizable setup.
Upon logging in, users will initially encounter their standard login screen background. Applications can then be initiated by pressing Alt-Shift-Enter, which opens a terminal window.
Getting Started
A comprehensive guided tour is available on the official Xmonad website, providing a detailed introduction to its operation and configuration.
Installation
Xmonad can be readily installed through the Ubuntu Software Center. Alternatively, installation can be performed via the command line:
sudo apt-get install xmonad
This command will download and install the necessary packages to begin utilizing Xmonad.
Alternative Desktop Environments in Ubuntu
Beyond the standard options, Ubuntu offers several alternatives for customizing your desktop experience. One such choice is GNOME Session Fallback, displayed as GNOME Classic on the login screen following installation.
Despite its name, GNOME Session Fallback isn't a completely separate desktop environment; rather, it’s a modification built upon GNOME 3.
It aims to replicate the functionality of GNOME 2, featuring a comparable menu layout. However, users familiar with GNOME 2 may observe the absence of certain features.
Installation can be achieved through the following command, should you wish to explore this option:
sudo apt-get install gnome-session-fallback
For those seeking greater customization within the Unity environment itself, tools like Confity or the CompizConfig Settings Manager may prove beneficial.
Are there other Unity alternatives you would suggest? Or perhaps you remain a proponent of Unity and believe it deserves renewed consideration?
Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments section below.
