Hey folks! I'm new to the Linux world and I'm currently using Linux Mint. I've come across the terms KDE and GNOME a lot, but I'm not entirely sure what they mean. Are there KDE or GNOME versions of Linux Mint? How do these desktop environments work in relation to Mint?
2 Answers
You're right that Mint uses the Cinnamon environment by default, but you can indeed install KDE and GNOME if you want—though it’s not usually recommended for beginners since it can get complicated. It’s like adding a whole new look and feel to your system, so you have to be careful about dependencies and potential conflicts. If you eventually explore these environments, just ease into it to avoid any headaches!
KDE and GNOME are essentially different desktop environments—like different styles of the user interface you interact with on your computer. KDE is known for its high customizability, while GNOME leans toward a minimalist approach. Since you're using Linux Mint, it actually defaults to the Cinnamon desktop environment, which is designed to be user-friendly for newcomers. Just so you know, there used to be a KDE version of Mint, but it was discontinued because it was tricky to maintain alongside other desktop versions. If you're looking to try KDE or GNOME, you can install them on your current setup, but I recommend doing so carefully to avoid system issues. A good way to test them out is using a virtual machine or a live USB!
Thanks for explaining that! I saw a video where someone asked if people preferred KDE or GNOME, and I got really curious about what the difference was. Now it makes sense!
I think I'll stick to Cinnamon for now, but I'm curious: why do people switch to KDE or GNOME? What’s the appeal?