My favorite Xfce-based Linux distros – because your desktop shouldn’t be boring (ZDNET)

Life's too short for dull desktops, and Xfce is so customizable that there's no excuse.

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• Xfce is a flexible and powerful desktop.
• If you’re looking for a distro to show it off, try one of these.
• Each of these OSs is free to install and use.

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Xfce is one of the most configurable desktops on the market; it can be twisted into just about any look and feel you need or want. It’s also incredibly fast. But here’s the thing: so many Linux distributions that ship with Xfce opt to set a default look and feel that is simply boring.

Life’s too short for boring desktops, and Xfce is so customizable that there’s no excuse for boring.

But not every distribution is created equal. Some Linux distros understand that the best way to attract new users is to showcase the power and flexibility of the Xfce desktop. Instead of presenting Xfce as the same old yawn-inducing layout, they might offer something new, or at least a look that elevates the desktop.

I set out to find what I believe are the best takes on the Xfce desktop, and I present them here for you today.

1. MX Linux

MX Linux has been at or near the top of the DistroWatch list for a very long time. MX Linux is based on Debian’s “Stable” branch and is a cooperative venture between the antiX and former MEPIS Linux communities. 

MX Linux takes the Xfce desktop and designs it to combine elegance, efficiency, and simplicity to create a highly stable, solid-performing, medium-sized operating system.

It succeeds.

More importantly, MX Linux shows how Xfce can break the shackles of normalcy and create something fresh. With a default layout that’s similar to Ubuntu, MX Linux doesn’t shy away from a non-standard desktop. You also get a nice Conky widget that adds a dash of modernity.

You also get all the stability of Debian, which means MX Linux is rock solid. Along with that stability comes the bevy of MX Tools that make managing every aspect of the OS a breeze. Those tools give you considerable power over the desktop and OS, with options for creating snapshots, installing packages, tweaking the desktop, repairing damaged boot loaders, enabling/disabling services, installing Nvidia drivers and codecs, verifying ISO image files, and customizing the MX theme colors.

MX Linux is fast, easy to use, and gives Xfce a kick in the aesthetic pants, all of which come together to make it one of the best Xfce-based distros on the market.
Who is MX Linux for?

MX Linux is for those who need a lightweight desktop, with the addition of the MX Toolkit, and don’t want the usual, boring layout.

2. Xubuntu

Xubuntu is the Ubuntu of Xfce. Xubuntu takes the Ubuntu distribution, shrugs off its standard desktop, and installs Xfce as the default. Xubuntu might not win any beauty contests, but it does make Xfce look a bit more modern than the default Xfce desktop.

What Xubuntu does is eschew the traditional bottom panel in favor of a top bar that contains everything you need to interact with the desktop (desktop menu, system tray, etc.). This makes for a very clean and minimal desktop — which I very much approve of.

You can always add that bottom panel or dock if you like, but the Xubuntu take on the desktop is quite nice.

Along with that unique Xfce layout, you get all the stability and user-friendliness of Ubuntu, which is a big bonus for those who are new to Linux.

Also: This modern take on Xfce is the perfect distro for audio fans.



Xubuntu ships with a few extras, such as Bulk Rename, Clipboard Manager Settings, Color Profiles, Catfish File Search, Firmware Updater, GDebi Package Installer, a font manager, LightDM GTK Greeter Settings, Menu Editor, and Sessions Editor. Not only do you get a unique Xfce layout, but you also get a collection of software that empowers you to take control of the desktop.
Who is Xubuntu for?

Xubuntu is for those with less-powerful hardware who want an Ubuntu-based system and a desktop that doesn’t look like it was designed in the late ’90s or early 2000s.


3. EndeavourOS

In general, EndeavourOS is a beautiful Linux distribution, regardless of which desktop you choose. The EndeavourOS Xfce desktop uses the same dark theme with purple accents in a fairly traditional layout, creating something that is equal parts old- and new-school.

This take on the Xfce desktop gives you a top panel and a bottom dock, while keeping it from looking like an amalgamation of CDE and KDE 1. Honestly, the EndeavourOS take on Xfce is one of the best-looking options you’ll find. And, yes, you can customize this desktop as much as you’d like.

You’ll find numerous default apps to put plenty of power in your hands, such as tools to easily configure your default applications, set up your firewall GUI, change color profiles, manage the session and startup, tweak the window manager, and more. You also get an app called YAD settings editor, which allows you to customize the GTK+ graphical dialog boxes from Linux shell scripts.
Who is EndeavourOS Xfce for?

This Xfce-based distribution is for anyone who wants a dandified Xfce desktop with all the software you need preinstalled, and a bit extra for the power users.

4. Tromjaro

Tromjaro is a trade-free Linux distribution, based on Manjaro, with the Xfce desktop. What does “trade-free” mean? I discussed this in I found a Linux distro with a ‘trade-free’ philosophy: “Essentially, you have an operating system (based on Manjaro) that collects no data and wants no fee. Sounds pretty much like Linux, right?”

Aside from the trade-free philosophy, Tromjaro is also a beautiful take on Xfce. Tromjaro’s Xfce layout is a combination of MX Linux and Xubuntu, with both a top panel and a left-side panel to create a layout that’s even closer to the Ubuntu desktop, and it’s quite effective. This take on Xfce is more modern than most others. 

During installation, you also get the choice between installing open-source or proprietary GPU drivers; if you want to get the most out of your Nvidia GPU, go with the proprietary drivers.

Tromjaro also includes a nifty tool that lets you open the Start menu, type a command, press Enter, and the terminal window opens with that command ready to run. It’s a pretty efficient way to run commands.



Who is Tromjaro for?

Tromjaro is for those who want to ensure their OS sends zero telemetry, while enjoying a beautiful Xfce layout and a cool way to run Linux commands.

By Jack Wallen
Source: https://www.zdnet.com/tech/top-linux-distros-xfce-desktop/

Dark Theme on Mint XFCE 22.3

A growing trend for many Linux desktops is a dark theme. Even MacOS dark themes have been released over the years. Linux Mint XFCE gives us many theme choices for a dark desktop. Of course there are many dark themes for both Firefox and Chrome-Chromium browsers as well. Below are my customization screen shots. I am using the Mint L-Dark Aqua theme, with TelaCircle icons. Conky theme is Drex.  Enjoy.

You can get the TeleCircle icon set here:
https://www.xfce-look.org/p/1359276/

Q4OS 6.9 Andromeda - KDE done right

Q4OS 6.9 was released and I gave it a try with the goal of creating a Win11-themed desktop. It comes with Chromium, LibreOffice Suite, Flatpak installed, and the standard KDE accessories. I installed Chrome, Firefox, Thunar, Mousepad, Deadbeef, fooyin, VLC, Synaptic, and the Win11OS Light KDE Global Theme. It is very stable and I found the video drivers better than the last version I tried which are now able to support my 2560x1440 resolution on my 32" monitor. So it looks and feels like a Win11 desktop running Linux. And you cannot beat the price of free. Below are details and my screen shots. 

Q4OS 6.9 Andromeda is the latest stable release of the Q4OS operating system, which is based on Debian Trixie. This version includes several enhancements and updates that improve the overall user experience.
Key Features and Improvements:
System Updates:
-Latest Debian Kernel: Q4OS 6.9 features the most recent stable Debian kernel, ensuring better performance and compatibility.
-Security Updates: Important security patches have been integrated to protect users from vulnerabilities.
Bug Fixes: 
Numerous bug fixes have been applied to enhance system stability and reliability.
Overview:
Q4OS is a fast and friendly, desktop oriented operating system based on Debian Linux. It deploys Plasma, optionally Trinity, as desktop environment on top of Debian Linux rock stable base.
The goal is to provide long-term supported system with a special emphasis on security. This is exactly what Debian base guarantees. We prefer the Debian development model to keep the core system as immutable as possible. It results in a reliable and stable system that you can definitely rely on.
Thanks to unique Q4OS tools a user can rather easily achieve setup of a fitted system eliminating superfluous packages and libraries. Therefore Q4OS performs faster and more efficient, doesn't exploit memory and computing resources with useless tasks and processes. 

You can download Q4OS 6.9 below:
https://sourceforge.net/projects/q4os/

 

Desert OS Linux 5.5 26.04 LTS Released - a polished XFCE Distro

Desert OS has been updated and I gave it a try. Below are my own screen shots and a link to dowload the latest version. Although based on XFCE, the Developers have done a nice job giving it a MAC like theme. It just shows how far XFCE can be customized to look and feel so polished with transparent windows. It comes with a brown theme  and a bottom dock. It comes bundled with the Chromium browser, LIbreOffice Suite, Deluge, Thunar, MPV video player, Pragha music player, Synaptic package manager, and more.

DESERT OS Linux is a lightweight and elegant operating system developed in Ukraine. It is based on Ubuntu 26.04 LTS and features the XFCE desktop environment, making it suitable for both modern and legacy hardware.

Key Features:
Lightweight Design: Optimized for low resource usage, ensuring fast performance.
User-Friendly Interface: Offers a polished and modern look right out of the box.
Dynamic Tiling: Includes Cortile for efficient window management.
Pre-Installed Applications: Comes with essential applications ready for use.
Video Wallpapers: Supports MP4 video wallpapers for both the desktop and login screen.
Package Management: Supports various package formats including DEB, Flatpak, and AppImage.
System Requirements:
Recommended RAM: 3 GB- MIN 4 GB or more-Recommended
Storage: 20 GB-MIN 30 GB-Recommended

You can download Desert OS here: 

https://sourceforge.net/projects/desert-os-linux/files/

DESERT OS Linux 4.5: Ukraine's Lightweight Linux Gem

Discovering DESERT OS (XFCE)

Hello there, fellow tech enthusiasts! If you're on the hunt for a fresh, nimble operating system that combines the reliability of established Linux foundations with a touch of modern flair, then DESERT OS Linux might just catch your eye. Developed right here in Ukraine, this distribution is all about delivering a lightweight and visually appealing experience without overwhelming your hardware. At its core, DESERT OS is built on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, which means it inherits that rock-solid stability and long-term support that keeps things running smoothly until April 2029. That's a good five years of updates and security patches, giving you peace of mind whether you're a casual user tinkering at home or someone relying on it for daily productivity.

Now, let's chat a bit about what makes DESERT OS stand out in the crowded world of Linux distros. It's not trying to reinvent the wheel; instead, it refines what's already great. The desktop environment is XFCE, a classic choice known for its efficiency and customisability. If you've ever felt bogged down by heavier interfaces like GNOME or KDE, XFCE is like a breath of fresh air—it's speedy, uses minimal resources, and lets you tweak things to your heart's content. In DESERT OS, this is elevated with some thoughtful enhancements that make it feel contemporary and user-friendly. Imagine booting up your machine and being greeted by a system that's not only quick but also adapts to your aesthetic preferences seamlessly.

One of the joys of open-source software is how it empowers communities and individuals to create something tailored to specific needs. DESERT OS embodies that spirit, emerging from a passion for creating a beautiful yet practical OS. While details on its full development history aren't extensively documented in the official channels, it's clear from the project's focus that it's aimed at users who appreciate elegance without excess. Whether you're new to Linux or a seasoned pro, this distro invites you to explore without intimidation. Think of it as a friendly neighbour in the Linux neighbourhood—approachable, reliable, and always ready for a chat about customisation.

Diving deeper, DESERT OS isn't just another Ubuntu spin; it's designed with an eye for detail that enhances everyday use. For instance, the system supports a live mode, which is brilliant for testing the waters before committing to a full installation. You can boot from a USB stick, poke around the interface, run some apps, and see if it clicks with you—all without touching your hard drive. This is especially handy if you're migrating from Windows or macOS and want to dip your toes in. And speaking of commitment, the project emphasises responsibility: while it's free and open-source, users should approach it with care, ensuring their hardware is compatible and backing up data just in case.

As we explore further, it's worth noting how DESERT OS fits into the broader Linux ecosystem. Ubuntu, its base, is renowned for its user-friendliness and vast software repositories. That means you get access to thousands of applications through the standard APT package manager, plus the added bonus of Pacstall support in some contexts, though that's more of an extended feature in related discussions. But sticking to what's core, DESERT OS keeps things simple, focusing on a clean XFCE setup that's optimised for performance. If you're running on older hardware, this could be a game-changer, breathing new life into machines that might otherwise gather dust.

Features That Shine

What really sets DESERT OS Linux 4.5 apart is its array of clever features that blend functionality with a dash of visual delight. Let's start with the theming system—it's dynamic and intuitive. The accent colours shift automatically based on your chosen wallpaper, creating a harmonious look across your desktop. This isn't just cosmetic; it makes the whole experience feel personalised and immersive, like the OS is responding to your creative choices. If you've ever spent hours fiddling with themes in other distros, you'll appreciate how effortless this is here.

Then there's the blur effect, adding a layer of sophistication to various elements. Some windows and applications support semi-transparency and blurring, which gives a modern, glassy appearance reminiscent of high-end interfaces but without the resource hog. It's subtle yet effective, enhancing readability and focus while keeping things light on your CPU and RAM. Picture working on a document with a blurred background—distractions fade away, and productivity soars. This feature is particularly lively on setups with decent graphics, but even on modest hardware, it runs smoothly thanks to XFCE's efficiency.

One of the more playful additions is the support for video wallpapers. Yes, you read that right—you can set an MP4 file as your desktop background or even on the login screen. Imagine a serene ocean wave or a bustling cityscape looping gently behind your icons. It's a fun way to inject personality into your setup, and it's surprisingly easy to implement. Just select your video file, and the system handles the rest. This isn't something you see in every distro, and it adds that lively touch that makes DESERT OS feel fresh and engaging.

Beyond visuals, DESERT OS comes with applications crafted specifically for the distribution. These aren't your run-of-the-mill tools; they're designed to integrate seamlessly with the overall aesthetic and functionality. While specifics on each app aren't exhaustively listed, they contribute to a cohesive experience, handling tasks like system tweaks or media management with ease. This bespoke approach ensures that everything feels unified, reducing the need to hunt for third-party software right out of the gate.

Performance-wise, being based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS means DESERT OS benefits from the latest kernel improvements and driver support. It's optimised for AMD64 architecture, making it suitable for most modern 64-bit machines. If you're concerned about speed, rest assured—this distro is built to be lightweight, meaning quicker boot times and responsive multitasking. In educational terms, this is a great example of how open-source allows for optimisation: developers can strip away bloat and focus on what matters, resulting in an OS that's efficient without sacrificing usability.

Security is another strong suit, inherited from Ubuntu's robust framework. Regular updates keep vulnerabilities at bay, and the LTS base ensures long-term stability. For users in educational or professional settings, this reliability is key. Plus, the open-source nature means you can inspect the code if you're inclined, fostering trust and community involvement. It's empowering to know that the software you're using is transparent and continually improved by contributors worldwide.

Customisation extends to the login screen and desktop layouts, allowing you to arrange panels, widgets, and shortcuts as you see fit. XFCE's panel system is versatile, supporting applets for everything from weather to system monitoring. In DESERT OS 4.5, these are enhanced with the distro's unique styling, making customisation not just possible but enjoyable. If you're teaching someone about Linux, this is a perfect starting point—it's educational in showing how modular desktop environments work.

On the software front, while a full list isn't detailed, expect the essentials: web browsers, office suites, media players, and more, all pre-installed for immediate use.

The beauty of Linux is its package management, and here you can easily add whatever you need via the terminal or graphical tools. For instance, if you're into coding, tools like Git or text editors are just an apt install away. This flexibility makes DESERT OS ideal for students, developers, or anyone exploring open-source alternatives.

Hardware compatibility is broad, thanks to Ubuntu's extensive drivers. Whether it's Wi-Fi, printers, or external devices, chances are it'll work out of the box. And for those rare hiccups, the community-driven nature of Linux means solutions are often a quick search away. In a lively sense, using DESERT OS feels like joining a global club where everyone shares tips and tricks.

Getting Started

Eager to give DESERT OS Linux 4.5 a whirl? The process is straightforward and beginner-friendly, much like other Ubuntu derivatives. First off, head to the official sources to grab the ISO file—there's an English version available for AMD64 systems, ensuring accessibility for a wide audience. Once downloaded, you'll want to create a bootable USB drive using tools like Rufus or Etcher. This step is crucial for the live mode, which lets you test drive the OS without any commitment.

Booting into live mode is as simple as restarting your computer with the USB inserted and selecting it from the boot menu—usually accessed by pressing F12 or similar during startup. Once loaded, you'll be greeted by the XFCE desktop, complete with the dynamic theming and blur effects. Take your time exploring: open apps, change wallpapers, even set a video background to see the magic in action. It's an educational moment, showing how Linux can run entirely from memory without altering your existing setup.

If you decide to install, the process mirrors Ubuntu's installer—user-friendly with options for partitioning, user setup, and more. You'll choose your language, keyboard layout, and whether to install alongside another OS or take over the drive. Remember to back up important data first, as with any installation. Post-install, you'll have a fully functional system ready for customisation. Updates are handled through the standard mechanisms, keeping everything current.

For those new to Linux, DESERT OS offers a gentle introduction. The XFCE interface is intuitive, with a start menu, taskbar, and desktop icons that feel familiar yet fresh. Educational resources within the Linux community can guide you further, but the distro itself is designed to be self-explanatory. Experiment with the custom apps—they're there to enhance your workflow, perhaps offering quick access to system settings or media controls.

Troubleshooting is part of the learning curve, but DESERT OS's lightweight nature means fewer issues overall. If something doesn't click, the project's contact options allow you to reach out to the author for guidance. This personal touch adds to the friendly vibe, making it feel less like a corporate product and more like a community effort.

As you settle in, you'll appreciate the efficiency: low RAM usage means you can run multiple apps without slowdowns, ideal for multitasking. Whether browsing the web, editing documents, or watching videos, it all flows smoothly. And with video wallpapers, your desktop becomes a canvas for creativity—perhaps a motivational clip or a nature scene to brighten your day.

In educational contexts, DESERT OS shines as a tool for teaching operating systems. Its open-source foundation allows for deep dives into how distros are built, from kernel to desktop. Students can learn about package management, file systems, and customisation without overwhelming complexity.

For professionals, the stability of Ubuntu LTS ensures it's viable for work, supporting tools like LibreOffice for productivity or GIMP for graphics. The blur and theming features add a professional polish, making presentations or remote work more enjoyable.

Ultimately, getting started with DESERT OS 4.5 is about embracing exploration. It's a lively invitation to the world of open-source, where you control your computing experience.

In wrapping up our deep dive into DESERT OS Linux 4.5, it's clear this Ukrainian gem offers a delightful blend of lightness, beauty, and functionality. Whether you're seeking a speedy daily driver or a platform for experimentation, it delivers with charm and efficiency. Give it a try—you might just find your new favourite distro.

Disclaimer: All trade names, trademarks, and product names mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners. At The Distrowrite Project, we strive for utmost accuracy in our content, drawing solely from official sources. We encourage responsible and legal use of open-source software, respecting licenses and community guidelines to foster a positive ecosystem.

Source: https://thedistrowriteproject.blogspot.com/2025/12/DESERT-OS-Linux-4-5-Ukraine-Lightweight-Linux-Gem.html

The English ISO DESERT_4.5_EN_amd64.iso is available to download here:

https://sourceforge.net/projects/desert-os-linux/files/release/

References:

- DESERT OS Linux

- DESERT OS Linux download | SourceForge.net