GNOME vs. KDE Plasma: Top Linux Desktops Compared
Quoting: GNOME vs. KDE Plasma: Top Linux Desktops Compared —
The biggest point of difference between GNOME and KDE Plasma is how they approach the desktop. While KDE Plasma provides a more traditional experience by default with tons of features under the hood, GNOME takes a different route, aiming to reinvent the desktop with a focus on minimalism.
GNOME's focus on simplicity, minimalist design, and a streamlined workflow culminates in an extremely unique and one-of-a-kind desktop experience. Unlike traditional desktops, GNOME strips away common elements like a bottom taskbar (or dock), desktop icons, folders, and widgets by default. Instead, you get a clean desktop designed to house only your active windows.
There’s a thin top bar, somewhat similar to the menu bar in macOS, where you’ll find system settings on the right, a date and time indicator in the center (which opens the Notification Area when clicked), and the Activities button on the left.