Personal computers now come in many form factors, but the same can’t be said about computer interfaces.
Most PCs come with a layout that feels like Windows or macOS.
Even mobile devices have grown more similar, regardless of whether you use Android or iOS.
Image Credit: Slimbook/Slimbook
On the surface, KDE Plasma doesn’t feel any different.
Most screenshots show a Windows-like desktop.
But Plasma intends to be adaptable to whatever your preferences or needs are.
Do you prefer having a dock with a menubar at the top, like on macOS?
it’s possible for you to do that too.
But the idea isn’t merely to replicate experiences you love from other desktops.
you could combine or modify these capabilities to create something different.
Have a panel that only displays your minimized windows.
And you don’t have to worry about breaking anything, since this is a supported and expected functionality.
Image Credit: Slimbook/Slimbook
Open upSystem controls > Appearanceto see a full range of ways to change up the looks.
Want to change the fonts?
you’ve got the option to download new ones directly inside System configs.
Image Credit:KDE
This is a process of self-discovery.
Need to run translations?
Want easy access to the weather?
Want a panel devoted to monitoring internet speeds and system performance?
All of these options are yours to discover.
you could set each corner of the screen to toggle the “Present Windows” effect.
Find what makes your job easier.
512MB of RAM used to be more than enough to browse the web.
Now individual surfing app tabs can easily hog up that much memory.
Desktop environments are also more demanding than they used to be.
KDE Plasma, despite all of its power and bling, is relatively lightweight.
You may have a 10-year-old PC that can run Plasma just fine.
If you don’t, you may be able to snag one on eBay for under $100.
it’s possible for you to try KDE on a smartphone or tablet usingPlasma Mobile.
Here you see an interface, not unlike Android and iOS, yet powered by familiar KDE technologies.
In the opposite direction, you’re able to put Plasma on a TV.
This initiative goes by the name ofPlasma Bigscreen.
But Plasma Mobile is becoming increasingly available as mobile Linux development continues.
The desktop is configurable in any number of ways, and so are the apps.
you’re free to move toolbars around, add or remove buttons, and change themes.
you might set up virtual desktops however you like or go further by creating “Activities.”
Activities offer a way to set up and isolate your workflows.
For example, you’ve got the option to have one activity for work and another for play.
Maybe you find the System Tray to be too cluttered.
you might determine which icons always appear, which only appear when active, and which never appear.
Maybe you want to set up window tiling.
KDE isloaded with hidden features.
Explore Your Desktop, and Have Fun!
Yes, our primary task at a PC is to get stuff done.
Sometimes that’s work.
Sometimes that’s watching a video or diving into a game.
