Top Alternatives to MATE

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.

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

KDE Plasma is a powerful, versatile, and customizable graphical desktop environment designed for Linux and other Unix-like systems. It offers a modern interface, extensive configuration options, and a wide range of included applications, aiming to provide a user-friendly yet highly flexible computing experience.

Cinnamon is a free and open-source desktop environment for Linux and other Unix-like operating systems. Developed by the Linux Mint community, it provides a traditional yet modern user interface, blending familiarity with modern design elements for an intuitive desktop experience.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.