Raspberry Pi OS is the default operating system for Raspberry Pi computers.
While others can be installed, there is the risk of losing some Pi-specific functionality.
But what if you wanted a new look?
Like other Linux distros, you might change the desktop environment on your Raspberry Pi.
This is accompanied by a unique theme and the Openbox stacking window manager.
Together, this is known as PIXEL.
On the whole, PIXEL is a fine desktop environment.
Prior to that, things had been a bit basic and ropey.
GNOME
Fancy turning your Raspberry Pi into a super-slick, modern-looking computer?
Installing GNOME as the Pis desktop environment will do exactly that.
This last (arguably better) option uses theGNOME for Piproject.
Note that before logging in, you should poke the cog wheel and select GNOME on Xorg.
This will improve performance from GNOME on your Raspberry Pi.
Its almost the antithesis of PIXEL, and will change the way you think about the Pi.
To install KDE Plasma:
It is worth disabling the compositor after installation.
PressAlt+Shift+F12to testthings should move a lot slicker on the KDE Plasma desktop.
Xfce
The Xfce desktop environment is a tidy alternative to the LXDE-based PIXEL.
Just as lightweight as PIXEL, Xfce looks far better than the default desktop.
LXQt
Crisp and functional, LXQt is often overlooked as an alternative desktop environment across the entire Linux family.
As alternatives to GNOME go, KDE Plasma and Xfce tend to get all the attention.
The same is the same on the Raspberry Pi, where the PIXEL desktop reigns supreme.
But LXQt is a smart environment without frills and distractions.
If you want them, simply use
This will load the full set of packages.
MATE
Another option is the other Ubuntu desktop environment, MATE.
This enjoyed increased popularity when Ubuntu developers Canonical were abandoning the Unity desktop environment in favor of GNOME Shell.
Its low system footprint makes MATE a smart choice for the Raspberry Pi.
you could use MATE on any Raspberry Pi 2 or later rig, the newer, the better.
However, first generation Raspberry Pis cannot handle MATE.
The result should be a slick, lightweight computing experience on the Raspberry Pi.
Tasksel, a Debian-based tool for automated configuration, features a number of desktop environments.
Compatible with Raspberry Pi OS, Tasksel can be used to install most Debian-friendly desktops.
Doing so will avoid conflicts and misconfiguration.
Of course, you dont have to rely on a Linux-style desktop environment for your Raspberry Pi.
You could make it look like Windows or macOS instead.
