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Top Alternatives to KDE

Looking for KDE alternatives? We've curated 9 top alternatives that offer similar functionality. Whether you need options, free plans, or open source solutions, explore our comprehensive list to find the perfect fit for your needs.

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GNOME

GNOME

Open Source

GNOME is a popular, user-friendly desktop environment for Linux and BSD systems, focusing on simplicity and productivity, enhanced by a wide range of extensions for customization and functionality.

Key Features

  • Clean and modern user interface
  • Effective workflow with Activities Overview
  • Highly customizable through extensions

vs KDE

Clean and modern user interface compared to KDE
Xfce

Xfce

Open Source

Xfce is a highly customizable, lightweight, and modular desktop environment for Unix-like operating systems, designed for productivity while retaining a visually appealing interface.

Key Features

  • Extremely lightweight and fast.
  • Highly customizable appearance and layout.
  • Modular design allows for flexibility.

vs KDE

Extremely lightweight and fast. compared to KDE
LXDE

LXDE

Open Source

LXDE (Lightweight X11 Desktop Environment) is a free, resource-efficient desktop environment designed for low-spec computers. It offers a classic desktop experience with essential components, focusing on speed and stability for users with limited hardware resources or those who prefer a nimble environment.

Key Features

  • Extremely low resource consumption, excellent for old or low-spec hardware.
  • Very fast and responsive performance.
  • Simple and familiar classic desktop interface.

vs KDE

Extremely low resource consumption, excellent for old or low-spec hardware. compared to KDE
MATE

MATE

Open Source

MATE is a classic, lightweight desktop environment that continues the GNOME 2 legacy. It offers a traditional and intuitive interface while providing modern functionality and performance.

Key Features

  • Highly lightweight and performs well on older hardware.
  • Offers a traditional and familiar user interface (GNOME 2).
  • Stable and reliable.

vs KDE

Highly lightweight and performs well on older hardware. compared to KDE
Enlightenment

Enlightenment

Open Source

Enlightenment is a highly customizable and lightweight window manager and desktop environment. It's known for its performance efficiency and aesthetic flexibility, offering a modular platform for users seeking a departure from traditional desktop experiences.

Key Features

  • Extremely lightweight and performant, suitable for older hardware.
  • Highly customizable interface for a personalized user experience.
  • Modular architecture allows for a lean and efficient setup.

vs KDE

Extremely lightweight and performant, suitable for older hardware. compared to KDE
LXQt

LXQt

Open Source

LXQt is a free and open-source lightweight desktop environment for Linux and BSD systems, designed for speed, efficiency, and customization. It is built from the foundation of LXDE and Razor-qt, combining the best of both worlds to provide a modern yet resource-friendly user experience.

Key Features

  • Extremely lightweight and resource-efficient
  • Highly customizable through modular design
  • Fast and responsive performance

vs KDE

Extremely lightweight and resource-efficient compared to KDE
Lumina Desktop Environment

Lumina Desktop Environment is a lightweight and highly customizable desktop environment focused on performance and user control. It's designed to be simple, efficient, and extensible through plugins, offering a seamless experience primarily on BSD operating systems but adaptable to others.

Key Features

  • Extremely lightweight and resource-efficient.
  • Highly customizable through themes and plugins.
  • Modular architecture allows for a tailored experience.

vs KDE

Extremely lightweight and resource-efficient. compared to KDE
Cairo Shell

Cairo Shell offers a lightweight and modular alternative desktop environment for Windows, aiming to replace the standard taskbar and Start Menu with a more customizable and efficient interface.

Key Features

  • Highly customizable and modular interface.
  • Lightweight design with lower resource consumption.
  • Integrated file management and transfer capabilities.

vs KDE

Highly customizable and modular interface. compared to KDE
Budgie

Budgie

Open Source

Budgie is a modern and dynamic desktop environment designed for users seeking a balance of elegance and performance. It emphasizes a clean interface and a highly customizable experience, built with modern technologies.

Key Features

  • Clean and modern aesthetic
  • Intuitive user interface
  • Good performance and resource usage

vs KDE

Clean and modern aesthetic compared to KDE

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