Best Debian Desktop Environments to install

Debian, is one of the most popular Linux distributions, that offers a variety of desktop environments that users can install based on their needs. Whether you’re looking for performance, customization, or user-friendliness, Debian has you covered. This tutorial will cover the best Debian desktop environments, how to switch between them, and how to install them using the command line.

What is a Desktop Environment?

A desktop environment (DE) is a graphical user interface (GUI) that sits on top of your operating system. It includes window managers, panels, icons, wallpapers, and other features to provide a cohesive user experience. Different desktop environments have different features, aesthetics, and system requirements, making it essential to pick the one that fits your needs.

Popular Debian Desktop Environments

GNOME
GNOME is the default desktop environment for Debian. It offers a modern and simple interface with a focus on productivity. It is well-integrated with Debian and offers features such as virtual desktops, extensions, and a customizable dashboard.
KDE Plasma
KDE Plasma is known for its flexibility and customizability. If you enjoy tweaking every aspect of your desktop environment, KDE Plasma is a good choice. It also offers beautiful graphical effects, making it visually appealing.
XFCE
XFCE is a lightweight desktop environment ideal for older or low-resource computers. It provides a clean, fast, and responsive interface while using fewer system resources.
Cinnamon
Developed by the Linux Mint team, Cinnamon offers a more traditional desktop experience with modern features. It is a good option if you are coming from Windows, as it has a familiar layout.
Mate
Mate is a fork of GNOME 2 and is designed to be a continuation of the GNOME 2 interface. It is lightweight, fast, and stable, making it suitable for those who prefer a simple and efficient desktop.
LXQt
LXQt is another lightweight desktop environment similar to XFCE. It focuses on being fast and low on system resources while still providing a modern look and feel.

Best Debian Desktop Environment

The best Debian desktop environment depends on your hardware, needs, and personal preferences. Below are recommendations for different use cases:

For Modern Systems: GNOME or KDE Plasma
For Older Hardware: XFCE or LXQt
For Windows Users: Cinnamon
For Stability and Simplicity: Mate

If you prioritize customization, KDE Plasma is unmatched. If you are looking for something lightweight, XFCE or LXQt are excellent choices.

How to Install Desktop Environments on Debian

You can install any desktop environment on Debian via the command line. The process involves using apt, Debian’s package management system. Before proceeding, ensure your system is up-to-date by running:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

GNOME

GNOME is typically pre-installed, but if it’s not, you can install it with the following command:

sudo apt install gnome

KDE Plasma

To install KDE Plasma, run:

sudo apt install kde-plasma-desktop

This installs a minimal version of KDE. If you want the full suite of KDE applications, you can install it using:

sudo apt install kde-full

XFCE

For XFCE, use:

sudo apt install xfce4

Cinnamon

Install Cinnamon with:

sudo apt install cinnamon-desktop-environment

Mate

To install Mate, use:

sudo apt install mate-desktop-environment

LXQt

Install LXQt with the command:

sudo apt install lxqt-core

You can also install additional packages to enhance the experience:

sudo apt install lxqt

How to Switch to a Debian Desktop Environment

Once you have multiple desktop environments installed, switching between them is easy.

Log out of your current session.
On the login screen, look for a gear icon, settings icon, or a similar symbol next to your username.
Click it and choose the desktop environment you want to use (e.g., GNOME, KDE, XFCE).
Log in, and the new desktop environment will load.

How to Remove a Desktop Environment in Debian

If you no longer need a desktop environment, you can remove it to free up disk space. For example, to remove KDE Plasma, run:

sudo apt remove kde-plasma-desktop

For GNOME, use:

sudo apt remove gnome

Be sure to clean up unused dependencies afterward:

sudo apt autoremove

Debian Install Desktop Environment Command Line

Installing desktop environments on Debian using the command line is simple and allows you to customize your system without the need for a fresh installation. Here’s a summary of the commands used to install the most popular environments:

GNOME: sudo apt install gnome
KDE Plasma: sudo apt install kde-plasma-desktop
XFCE: sudo apt install xfce4
Cinnamon: sudo apt install cinnamon-desktop-environment
Mate: sudo apt install mate-desktop-environment
LXQt: sudo apt install lxqt-core

Tips for Managing Desktop Environments

Keep Your System Clean: If you switch desktop environments often, make sure to remove the old ones you don’t use to avoid clutter.
Customization: Each environment offers different customization options. KDE Plasma and GNOME have extension systems, while XFCE and Mate focus on simplicity.
Resource Usage: If you notice your system slowing down, opt for lightweight environments like XFCE, Mate, or LXQt, especially if you’re using older hardware.

Conclusion

Debian offers a wide range of desktop environments to cater to different user preferences. Whether you’re looking for performance, aesthetics, or familiarity, there’s a desktop environment for you. This guide covered the best Debian desktop environments, how to install them using the command line, and how to switch between them. By following the instructions above, you can enhance your Debian experience and find the perfect desktop environment for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which is the best desktop environment for Debian?

The best desktop environment for Debian depends on your system and preferences. For modern systems with good hardware, GNOME or KDE Plasma are excellent choices. For older hardware or low-resource systems, XFCE and LXQt are more suitable. If you’re looking for a familiar Windows-like layout, Cinnamon is a good option.

How can I switch between desktop environments on Debian?

To switch between desktop environments, log out of your current session. On the login screen, look for a gear or settings icon next to your username. Click it, select the desktop environment you want to use, and then log back in.

Can I install multiple desktop environments on Debian?

Yes, you can install multiple desktop environments on Debian. Each one can be installed using the command line (apt install <environment-name>). You can switch between them from the login screen, as described above.

How do I remove a desktop environment in Debian?

To remove a desktop environment, use the command sudo apt remove <environment-name> (e.g., sudo apt remove kde-plasma-desktop for KDE). After removing, use sudo apt autoremove to clean up unused dependencies and free up disk space.

What is the lightest desktop environment for Debian?

XFCE and LXQt are considered the lightest desktop environments for Debian. They consume fewer system resources and are ideal for older or less powerful machines while still offering a modern, customizable interface.