Gnome vs. KDE: A comparison of Linux desktops
Gnome vs. In the Linux world, KDE stands for the age-old battle of desktop interfaces. With this comparison of the two candidates, we give you an overview of the differences in the interface, user friendliness and more.
The Gnome desktop interface
Gnome is currently in version 3.12 and has not only largely revised its appearance, but also integrated many changes and new features. So there is now a new, universal search and various settings regarding releases and privacy. There is also an optional classic mode.
- User interface: Gnome is now more and more oriented towards the appearance of mobile operating systems such as Android or iOS, but thanks to the bar at the top of the screen it is most reminiscent of MacOS X. Many functions are quickly accessible via large-tile icons. So if you have a smartphone or tablet, you should quickly find your way around Gnome.
- Customization options: Gnome now has a number of options for customizing the interface. But these are well hidden in the system settings. The focus here is clearly on getting started quickly. Individualization fans prefer to use KDE.
- Performance: Gnome has to admit defeat to KDE. One might think that Gnome uses less resources due to its simpler interface, but the opposite is the case.
- Applications: Known applications such as Firefox or Google Chrome have been integrated into Gnome somewhat better than under KDE. The Linux programs developed for Gnome are based on its design credo "less is more" - more user-friendly but reduced in settings.
The desktop interface KDE
Version 4.12.0 of KDE is currently available and is integrated in the Linux distributions "openSUSE" and "kubuntu", among others. The main focus is on the many customization options.
- User interface: The KDE desktop is a little more confusing with the many widgets and its taskbar reminds you of Windows at first glance. This also contains the "Activity Manager" with which different desktop versions can be displayed, for example to directly access a photo collection. As in Gnome, a 3D desktop view is available to the user right from the start.
- Customization options: Whether it concerns the task bar, the display of windows or the positioning of widgets - almost every element of the user interface can be customized in KDE. However, the variety of options can quickly overwhelm inexperienced users. So you should invest some time for your own personal KDE experience.
- Performance: Gnome has long been considered the faster desktop version, but KDE is now undercutting competitors in memory consumption and thus outperforming Gnome in performance. In addition, components that are not required during installation can be omitted.
- Applications: As with Gnome, the programs developed for KDE follow the given thrust. The applications are much more extensive here and, like the KDE desktop, have a wide range of setting options. Great for power users, unfortunately often overloaded for newcomers.
Conclusion: Gnome or KDE - a matter of taste
As is so often the case, your personal preference depends on which of the two desktop variants you choose. It's best to ask yourself the question: Do I want a quick, uncomplicated start, or a full Linux experience?
- For newcomers to Linux and anyone who sees themselves more as a layperson, Gnome is the better choice. The reduced, but clearer interface offers all the necessary functions in one go without overwhelming the user. The disadvantage is that many setting options are missing or are very well hidden, with which the appearance can be adjusted to your own preferences. Gnome also has performance deficits.
- KDE is ideal for power users. Windows users in particular feel at home here. The many options that affect the interface and the many directly accessible functions make KDE a powerful desktop tool that also offers better performance in this comparison.
- Of course, you should only understand the conclusions presented as tendencies. If you want to get an idea of the two competitors yourself without having to install Linux right away, it is best to use a live DVD. The "openSUSE" distribution offers a version with Gnome and another with KDE.
If you would like to switch from Windows to Linux, we will show you how to move best.