Introduction to Ubuntu Budgie
Ubuntu Budgie is an official variant of Ubuntu that combines the strength of the Ubuntu base with the Budgie desktop environment, originally developed by the Solus project. This distribution seeks to offer a modern, attractive and user-friendly experience without sacrificing performance or stability.
Origin and evolution
Budgie was born in 2014 as a light desk for Solus, focused on simplicity and aesthetics. In 2016, the Ubuntu Budgie team decided to pack Budgie on the Ubuntu LTS basis, creating a version that receives the same security updates and packages as standard Ubuntu.
Main features of the Budgie desktop
- Customizable top panel with integrated applets and menus.
- Raven style application menu that combines notifications, controls and quick access.
- Transparency effects and soft animations that consume little resources.
- Integration with Ubuntu indicators (network, sound, energy) for a coherent experience.
Benefits of using Ubuntu Budgie
- Optimal performance in modest hardware thanks to Budgie's low consumption.
- Clean and modern interface that attracts users looking for aesthetics without overload.
- Access to the vast repository of Ubuntu, ensuring compatibility with thousands of applications.
- LTS updates every two years, ideal for production and long use environments.
Possible limitations
- Some third-party applets may not be as polished as in GNOME or KDE.
- The community, though active, is less than that of more popular flavors like Ubuntu GNOME (now Ubuntu standard).
- Advanced customization may require manual editing of configuration files.
Installation requirements
To install Ubuntu Budgie, at least 2 GB of RAM, 20 GB of disk space and a 64-bit processor are recommended. In machines with less resources, the desktop remains fluid, although slight delays in visual effects can be experienced.
Basic steps to install
- Download the ISO image from the official Ubuntu Budgie page.
- Create a USB boot medium with tools like Rufus or Etcher.
- Start from the USB and follow the graphic installer, choosing partitioning options as needed.
- Restart and enjoy the Budgie desktop at first start.
Personalization and themes
Budgie allows to change themes, icons and applets using the configuration tool «Budgie Desktop Settings». In addition, additional topics can be installed from community repositories or using the plugin «Budgie Extras» to add applets such as climate, system monitor or quick access.
Community and support
The project has active forums, a Discord channel and a mailing list where users and developers share solutions, packages and improvements. Official documentation covers from basic installation to advanced performance adjustments.
Conclusion
Ubuntu Budgie represents an excellent choice for those who want Ubuntu's reliability along with a modern, light and visually friendly desktop. Its balance between performance and aesthetics makes it suitable for both domestic and professional use, especially in equipment where efficiency is valued without giving up a pleasant working environment.
