In the evolving landscape of Linux distributions, SDesk emerges as a noteworthy contender, particularly for those who may be hesitant to explore Arch-based systems. This distribution is currently available at no cost, allowing users to install it on multiple machines without any financial commitment.
User-Friendly Interface
SDesk distinguishes itself with a user interface that feels instantly familiar to users transitioning from Windows or macOS. Utilizing the GNOME desktop environment, it features a traditional layout complete with a panel, menu, top bar, and desktop icons. The top bar includes essential elements such as the Workspaces button, time and date display, and a system tray for notifications.
The pre-installed applications are standard yet functional, catering to everyday needs. Users will find:
- LibreOffice (office suite)
- Geary (email client)
- GNOME Music (music player)
- GNOME Video (video player)
- Octopi (GUI package manager)
- GNOME Maps
- Swirl (web browser)
For those who require additional software, both Octopi and Flatpak provide easy installation options. However, the inclusion of Swirl, a lesser-known web browser with minimal settings, raises some eyebrows. While it functions adequately, users might prefer to install more established browsers like Firefox or Chromium, which can be easily added through Octopi.
Performance and Usability
The performance of SDesk is commendable, with applications launching swiftly and operating smoothly—a hallmark of Arch-based distributions. The developers have also implemented effective window snapping capabilities, allowing users to arrange their workspace efficiently by dragging windows into any of the four screen quadrants.
Areas for Improvement
Despite its strengths, SDesk is still in its infancy, which means it has a few rough edges. During testing, a notable issue arose when the desktop froze upon reboot after an update. This was resolved by selecting the “Not Listed” option at login, indicating a potential bug that the developers are likely addressing.
Another minor drawback is the lack of multimedia codecs for MP3 and MP4 playback out of the box. This can be easily remedied by installing VLC media player with a simple command:
sudo pacman -S vlcOnce VLC is installed, multimedia functionality is restored, allowing users to enjoy their favorite audio and video files seamlessly.
In summary, SDesk presents itself as a viable option for users seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing Linux desktop experience. With its straightforward setup and familiar interface, it holds promise for both newcomers and seasoned Linux enthusiasts alike. As the developers continue to refine the distribution, SDesk may well become a preferred choice for those looking to transition from traditional operating systems.
