My Tier List For Linux Desktop Environments

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore the tier ranking of various Linux desktop environments as presented in the DistroTube video. This tier list is subjective but can help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of each environment, aiding you in selecting the one that best fits your needs.

Step 1: Understanding Desktop Environments

Before diving into the tier list, it’s essential to grasp what a desktop environment (DE) is. A DE provides the graphical user interface (GUI) for interacting with the operating system. Key components include:

• Window manager
• Panels
• Widgets
• Icons

Practical Advice

• Consider your workflow and preferences, as different DEs cater to different user needs.
• Take note of system resource usage—some DEs are lighter and more suitable for older hardware.

Step 2: Exploring the Tier List

The video ranks several desktop environments from S (top tier) to F (lowest tier). Here’s a summary of the rankings mentioned:

1. S Tier:

   • KDE Plasma: Known for its rich features and flexibility.
   • GNOME: Offers a modern design and extensive extension support.

2. A Tier:

   • Xfce: Lightweight and customizable, ideal for lower-end devices.
   • Mate: A continuation of GNOME 2, offering simplicity and ease of use.

3. B Tier:

   • Cinnamon: User-friendly with a traditional layout, popular among new users.
   • Budgie: A modern DE with a focus on simplicity and elegance.

4. C Tier:

   • LXQt: Lightweight but may lack some of the polish and features of higher-tier environments.

5. D Tier:

   • Enlightenment: Unique design but can be less intuitive for users transitioning from more common DEs.

6. F Tier:

   • i3: Tiling window manager that may not suit users preferring a traditional desktop experience.

Practical Advice

• Research each DE to see screenshots and user reviews to gauge which might appeal to you.
• Consider trying out a few DEs in a live session before committing to an installation.

Step 3: Installing a Desktop Environment

Once you've selected a DE, follow these general steps to install it on your Linux system:

1. Update Your Package List:

   sudo apt update
   

2. Install the Desktop Environment:

   • For KDE Plasma:

     sudo apt install kde-plasma-desktop
     

   • For Xfce:

     sudo apt install xfce4
     

   • For GNOME:

     sudo apt install gnome-shell
     

3. Select the Desktop Environment at Login:

   • At the login screen, click on the gear icon or session menu and select your newly installed DE before logging in.

Common Pitfalls

• Be mindful of dependencies; some DEs may require additional packages.
• If performance issues arise, consider a lighter DE if you are using older hardware.

Conclusion

Selecting the right Linux desktop environment is a personal choice influenced by your usage patterns and hardware capabilities. By understanding the tier rankings and trying out different DEs, you can find the best fit for your workflow. Feel free to explore additional tutorials on customizing and optimizing your selected desktop environment for an enhanced experience.