Choosing a Linux distribution and desktop environment
Choosing a Linux distribution and desktop environment
I'll set up Linux as the second operating system on an external SSD. Regarding your questions, can I pick a desktop environment across different distributions? Most installers will prompt you to choose one when installing the OS. You mentioned wanting a lightweight setup without ultra-light options like Lubuntu. For a minimalist look, Debian and Ubuntu are solid choices. Both offer clean interfaces and good performance. As for desktop environments, GNOME and KDE are popular, though KDE can be heavier. Arch Linux is also an option if you're comfortable with its flexibility. If you prefer something lighter than Lubuntu, consider XFCE or LXDE. The RGB feature on your PC adds a nice touch to the setup. Let me know if you'd like more details on any of these!
consider starting with Xubuntu if you're just beginning. it runs smoothly, is easy to use, and since it's built on Ubuntu, you'll find plenty of guides available. speaking of options, Linux hasn't really addressed RGB control in recent updates. regarding desktop environments, it varies by distribution—most come with one default, letting you pick based on preference. for instance, Ubuntu uses GNOME, Kubuntu uses KDE, and Xubuntu uses Xfce. On the other side, there are choices like Arch Linux, which requires more setup and doesn’t ship with an installer, and Manjaro, which offers several versions with different desktop setups.
I used Debian for 2-3 months. I’ll try Arch next. If installation fails or it’s not working, I’ll switch to Kubuntu. I plan to research how to install and check drivers on Arch. Thanks for your help. Updated: I’m choosing Ubuntu since Arch is taking too much time and I have a busy schedule.
A link could assist in picking a distribution, @yigitayaz262. Xubuntu is a solid option. A version that streamlines even Xubuntu 20.04.1 caught my eye—something I saw a motel using for business purposes. It looks less prone to issues and easier to manage than the typical 'Buntu' setup. Nice observation about simplicity. GeckoLinux might also be worth exploring. My systems are outdated, so it doesn’t run well, but it’s a promising new distro from SUSE. It offers various desktop environments, like KDE Plasma. Best of luck!
Ah, yeah, well, ermmm.... You may want to rethink that one (for those who truly believe RGB is a speed-miracle: I've studied electronics 30 years ago, when blue leds didn't even exist, never mind white, purple and a whole lot of other colours. Choices were green, red and orange. And for those who need spelling it out: RGB does ab-so-lute-ly nothing for your PC in terms of speed. If anything, it potentially slows it down by running the RGB control tools, which needs CPU cycles)
Search for ICC color profiles—they might hold more insight into color than you realize.
You can add any desktop setup on any operating system, though not during the first setup phase. Most distribution versions already include a pre-selected desktop environment. Certain distros such as Manjaro offer several options, each tailored to a specific desktop setup.