Both KDE and GNOME are the most popular and complete desktop environments for GNU/Linux and UNIX computers. But sometimes it becomes difficult for users to decide whether to use KDE or GNOME as their desktop environment.

In this post, we will try to compare both of the desktop environments with a neutral point of view. We will not only discuss the similarities between KDE and GNOME but also the different features and services available in both of these desktop environments.

Hardware Requirement: The hardware requirements for KDE is little higher as compare to GNOME, but minimum requirement of RAM for both of the Desktop Environments is 512 MB, and the processor should be at least 1Ghz. These desktops will run on older hardware and with low RAM and Processor but the speed will be slower then you would expect from a Desktop PC’s user interface.

Multiple Desktops: Both KDE and GNOME offer multiple desktops or workspaces, that allows you to have more space available to run your applications, like you can run command terminals, browsers, office applications and other softwares in different virtual desktops or workspaces for each of them, you can switch between these workspaces or desktops easily by clicking on a thumbnail on the panel.

Usability and Customization: Both KDE and GNOME are easy to use and offer many customizable features, the user can easily change the location of program menus and panel, user can customize sound, wallpapers, icons and other elements of the file manager. KDE has an advantage that it has a start-up wizard which allows you to customize the settings of your desktop like graphics and icons.

After this comparison a question comes to everyone’s mind, which desktop environment is the better one? It’s very difficult to favor any one of them, it depends upon user’s experience and personal preferences. Both desktop environments have millions of fans with them, using their preferred desktop environment on the basis of their choice, likes and dislikes. In our opinion, KDE is for the users who like high quality graphics and believe more on Eye-Candy features, and Gnome could be the choice of people who like simplicity and ease-of-use. You can also comment on the pros and cons of these desktop environments.